HVAC ducts and how to deal with them
You most certainly know that even the best HVAC air filters cannot trap all the contaminants in the air passing through them. As a result, the air ducts get contaminated over time while the home indoor air quality tends to deteriorate. Find out more about the most common contaminants of the HVAC ducts and how to deal with them.
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Dust from Various Sources
The problem with dust can be particularly pressing when one of several factors is present. If the furnace filter has low efficiency, it will let more dust pass freely and a portion of it will be accumulated inside the air ducts. Holes, improperly set connections and air leaks let extra air in and dust along with it. In this case, the dust usually comes from drywall, paint and other structural materials. If the HVAC registers have been left open during construction and repair works, the contamination can be particularly high.
Air duct cleaning is the main solution to this problem along with filter replacement. The sooner it is done, the better. Seal repair is also essential. Even the smallest holes and crevices must be sealed tightly. -
Pollen Whose Peak Is in Spring
As one of the most powerful allergens, pollen can easily make people sneeze and cough for weeks. The main issue with it is that it is extremely fine and sticks to all kinds of surfaces including the HVAC ducts. You can protect your home from it by placing door mats and more frequent house cleaning and clothes washing. Spring HVAC maintenance should definitely include the cleaning of the ducts and the changing of the furnace filter. -
Pet Dandruff Coming from Cats and Dogs
Over 65% of the families in the United States keep a dog or a cat or both in their home. This naturally makes pet dandruff one of the most commonly found contaminants in the HVAC ducts. The problem with it is that it is a powerful allergen. It may go without saying, but young children who are typically the family members most keen on getting a pet are also at the highest risk of suffering from an allergy.
If you have a pet, you will need to replace the air filter more frequently even if you get one which has a high efficiency rating. More frequent air duct cleaning is also recommended. Pet owners are usually advice to vacuum their floors more than once a week.