As concerns over poor air quality in homes continue to grow, homeowners are keen on getting to the root cause of the problem. As a homeowner relying on ducted air conditioning to keep your home cool and comfortable, you will need to clean your ductwork periodically to ensure constant supply of clean, cool air.  

Here are some signs that may indicate it is time to clean your home's HVAC ductwork. 

Sudden allergy-related illness

If one of your family members experiences an allergy-related complication, and you have taken all the possible precautions to decontaminate your home's indoor air, then you may need to have your air conditioning ductwork cleaned.

Air duct obstructions 

Over time, your ducted air conditioning system may accumulate a significant amount of dust and other forms of debris. This may not only reduce the efficiency of the system, but also increase the risk of air contamination. If you have noticed this, you should consider cleaning your HVAC ductwork. 

Mould growth 

If you are getting a mouldy or damp odour from your AC system, you may want to have an expert check your ductwork. Mould growth is usually caused by trapped moisture and it can damage the whole HVAC system if it goes unnoticed. It can also flare up allergies in your household. Ensure you completely eliminate any sign of mould in your HVAC ductwork as soon as possible. 

Animal infestation 

If you see rodent droppings or dead insects in your HVAC unit, you may need to have your ducts cleaned. These by-products will not only circulate a bad odour in your home, but they could also mean that insects and rodents are nesting in your HVAC ducts. Before you have it cleaned, ensure all the animals are removed from the HVAC system. 

Renovation

If your home renovation involved lead paint removal, asbestos abatement, or use of any other hazardous material, you may want to clean your ductwork. If these harmful materials get into your HVAC system, they will spread all over your home and compromise on the quality of your indoor air. As a precautionary measure, be sure to seal off your HVAC ductwork during all major home renovation projects. 

If you must have your air ducts cleaned, it is always recommended to seek the services of professional and reputable HVAC contractors. They are highly-trained in this field and have the right equipment to clean the whole ductwork thoroughly. As a homeowner, maintaining proper indoor air quality should be a top-of-mind priority. For more information, contact companies like Needhamair.