Having clean air ducts is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality. Regularly inspecting and cleaning your air ducts can help you avoid a series of problems in your home and for your family members. But how do you know when it's time to clean your air ducts?The most obvious sign that your air ducts need to be cleaned is an irregular flow of air in the bedroom, bathroom, living room, and kitchen. When the ducts are clogged, it takes more energy for the heating and cooling system, oven, and air conditioner to maintain the set temperatures on the thermostat.
Cleaning the air ducts helps reduce dust and dirt in the home, which can cause coughing, sneezing, and congestion. Experts recommend cleaning air ducts every 2 to 3 years to prevent any maintenance or health issues from arising. If you can't remember the last time you changed your air filter, it's probably time to do so before the ducts start to build up. Additionally, if your home has just been built or has undergone a major renovation, or if your ducts are infested with rodents or insects, then it is likely time for a thorough cleaning. Cleaning your air conditioning system ducts can be a project you can do yourself with the right instructions from a reliable online source or DIY manual. Customers can purchase natural gas or electric services at the retailer of their choice.
For a list of retailers, visit www.ucahelps.gov.ab.ca or call 310-4822 (toll-free in Alberta).
