The HVAC industry’s worth more than $130.5 billion and for good reason. Without proper heating, air conditioning, and air quality in the home, life feels very different.
Americans alone are indoors 90% of the time. Whether that’s at home, work, or in a gym, healthy ductwork’s crucial.
Unhealthy ductwork poses problems for the home as well as human health. Worse than breathing unhealthy air’s not knowing if it’s unhealthy.
If you’re curious about high energy bills or why your seasonal allergies have spiked, it’s time to tend to your ducts.
Here’s what to know about ductwork warning signs.
The Importance of Ductwork
Indoor spaces come with the promise of shelter, safety, and security, but that’s impossible with unhealthy air.
It’s easy to think the air in the home’s safer than outside air. While outside air’s laden with pollutants and gasses, indoor air can be 2-5% worse. Why?
Home air quality rides on the promise of healthy ductwork. Proper air circulation and air quality depend on a strong HVAC system. Here’s how to tell if yours is struggling.
1. High Energy Bills
High energy bills are blindspots for homeowners since energy’s used in many ways. If you can’t understand why your bills are high, consider how you use energy.
If that still doesn’t make sense, it’s likely there’s a leak or clog in your air filter. Having regular duct cleaning and sanitation ensures there’s no damage and keeps the system running well.
2. Allergens
If you have seasonal allergies, you may be more irritated than usual. If you don’t have allergies and find yourself coughing, sneezing, dry eyes, or have trouble breathing, it’s past time to check on your ducts.
Ducts not sealed pose issues for dust circulation. Infants, the elderly, and those with co-occurring respiratory problems are at higher risk for allergens and infections.
3. Bad Smell
Bad smells are intolerable in the home, especially if you don’t know where they’re coming from. Odors are among the top signs you need ductwork, as they may suggest the following.
- Mold or mildew
- Dead animals or pests
- Waste
If you’ve recently had animal or pest problems in the basement or attic, make sure they haven’t left anything behind. Otherwise, that’s the air you’re smelling.
4. Dusty HVAC Unit
If your HVAC unit itself’s dusty, the air likely is too. Cleaning air filters helps combat dust accumulation. If that’s not enough, you may need an air purifier.
5. Uneven Temperatures
If your house has hot and cold spots, your ducts need cleaning. Uneven airflow stems from the following:
- Dust mites
- Pollen
- Mold spores
- Humidity
Investing in programmable thermostats can help you track your air better to ensure optimal health.
Happy Ducts for Happy Lungs
While it’s possible to check your own ductwork for leaks and damage, it’s hard to know what you’re seeing without a proper inspection. Plus, no one wants to go deeper into a dust fest when you’re already struggling with symptoms.
Clean air’s a human need and basic right. ABS Air Conditioning offers inspections and services for those affected by Florida’s amplified humidity.
Don’t wait until either your health or your home health’s compromised to clean up your air. Contact us today to ensure your home really isyour safe space.
