EPA Ranks Indoor Air Pollution Among the Top 4 Health Risks

EPA ranks indoor air pollution among the top 4 health risks. Dirty air ducts have been identified as a major source of indoor air pollution. In fact, the air duct system is a breeding ground for bacteria, animal dander, mold, and dust mites. These impurities can cause allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, infections, and disease. 

Importance of Indoor Air Quality

When was the last time that you have had your air ducts checked? Air ducts are the most neglected part of your heating and air conditioning system because they are either tucked away in the attic or under the floor and you can’t see them. Creating that old “out of sight out of mind” mentality. Old ductwork is so crucial to our indoor air quality and comfort. 

Flex ducting is the most common in Southern California. Homes built prior to 1978 with original ducting will most likely have asbestos present. If ductwork is deteriorating or has asbestos the best thing is to do it to redesign and install new ducts. 

How do you know if ductwork needs repair, replacement, or cleaning?

Visual inspection: If you notice loose or hanging materials. Deteriorating duct tape or signs of rust may be time for duct replacement.

Are you experiencing hot or cold spots in certain rooms? You may have broken or leaking ductwork going to that room. Your duct system may have been a bad design. Most contractors design duct systems adhering to an old-school rule of thumb system. There are scientific and mathematical ways to design ductwork to cool and heat a space properly and efficiently.

Are your heating and cooling bills higher than usual? Is there a reasonable explanation? You may have deteriorating leaky ductwork. 

Do you see dust come out of the registers when you turn your HVAC system on? Do you see dirt and dust build-up on air registers and return grills in the home? Duct cleaning can be a cheaper route to help with indoor air quality. Beware of the cheap $39.99 whole house duct cleaning these are scams and do not clean duct systems. Also, any company that will clean your ducts using the Rotobrush system(the only way to actually clean ducts) should include a full inspection and cleaning of evaporator coil(cooling coils), furnace blower motor, and blower motor housing, registers, and return registers. 

Is your home 20 years or older and has never had the ducts replaced? And if they have been replaced do you still have a room that stays either hotter or colder than the rest of the house? You can schedule a free diagnostic with our NATE Certified Technicians.