Many homeowners are unaware of how vulnerable we can be to the common problems associated with dirty ducts. Overlooking air duct cleaning can result in significant health issues.
Dirty air ducts are a leading cause of mold spores, bacteria, dust, pollen, and other harmful contaminants in your home.
As you continue reading, you will learn some of the most common things to avoid and to maintain the pristine quality of your breathable air.
Importance of Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a significant concern in the 21st century, both domestically and internationally. As homes become better insulated against external elements, the importance of maintaining clean air grows. Unbeknownst to many, your air duct system may be harboring harmful particulates without you even knowing it. Whenever your HVAC system activates, it can distribute dust, dust mites, animal dander, pollen, bacteria, and smoke particles throughout your indoor air. Here are some key statistics that emphasize the severity of the IAQ crisis:
- The EPA estimates that we spend approximately 90% of our time indoors.
- Every year, over 7,000 non-smokers succumb to lung cancer due to exposure to residual smoke particles.
- A 1988 EPA study identified over 500 harmful substances in ten public buildings, a problem that has since been exacerbated.
- Household air pollution is accountable for an estimated 3.2 million deaths annually.
- The air inside the average home can be up to 100% more polluted than the air outside.
The Benefits of Improving Your Indoor Air Quality
Improving your indoor air quality through proper air duct cleaning offers many benefits for your home. Here are the key advantages:
Improved Sleep Quality
Our IAQ experts address some of the most common root causes of respiratory irritation, promoting better sleep and waking up feeling refreshed.
Fresher Indoor Environment
Our services eliminate persistent odors like old cigarette smoke, musty smells, and chemical odors, creating a cleaner and more pleasant indoor atmosphere.
Reduced Allergy Discomfort
Installing a humidifier or air purifier can remove pet dander and artificial fragrances from the air, providing relief from cold and allergy symptoms, especially for those with conditions like asthma and emphysema.
3 Common Threats to Indoor Air Quality
Maintaining a healthy home environment is a priority for Virgina Beach homeowners, and one crucial aspect often overlooked is indoor air quality. The air we breathe indoors can have a profound impact on our health and well-being.
Here are three common threats that affect how you breathe and how addressing these issues can create a healthier living environment:
Dust and Debris in Air Ducts
The climate in Hampton Roads, with its humidity and seasonal shifts, can lead to the buildup of dust and debris in your air ducts. This buildup can harm your home’s air quality and impact your HVAC system’s efficiency, risking respiratory health.
Mildew Growth and Mold
The humid climate creates a perfect environment for mildew and other potentially dangerous fungi to thrive. These unwelcome intruders not only jeopardize your home’s structure but also pose substantial health risks.
Household Chemicals and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Modern homes often contain various household chemicals that release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the air. These compounds, found in products such as paints, cleaning supplies, and furniture, can have adverse health effects when inhaled.
Mistakes That Worsen Indoor Air Quality
Homeowners can unknowingly make mistakes that degrade indoor air quality, which may result in negative health consequences.
Here are common indoor air quality mistakes made by homeowners:
Neglecting air conditioner filters: Failing to clean or change your air conditioning filters can strain your system and re-circulate dust, dirt, and pollutants in your home.
Improper ventilation: Not using exhaust fans while cooking or bathing can trap indoor pollutants and increase humidity levels. Many Americans don’t open their windows enough, causing old, stale, and potentially dirty air to float from room to room on repeat because there is no path for the air to escape.
Ignoring air ducts: Accumulated dirt and dust can significantly affect indoor air quality in your home. Neglected air ducts already compromised with dust and mildew can have a terrible impact on your ability to breathe and for your immune system to fight off disease.
How you may discover you have an air quality problem
Many residents in Virginia Beach may unknowingly experience air quality issues, often attributing their symptoms to factors like elevated pollen levels or general fatigue.
However, if you consistently observe the following indicators, it is advisable to consider an air quality assessment:
- Frequent occurrence of runny noses or allergy-related symptoms.
- Inefficient heating and air conditioning systems.
- Smoking habits within your home.
- Presence of shedding pets.
- Visible evidence of mildew or mold.
- Weakening of the immune system in household members.
- Accumulated dust on vents and registers.
- Staleness or stuffiness in the indoor air.
- Experiencing skin irritation.
- Suffering from headaches, nausea, or chronic fatigue.
- Persistent and unpleasant odors that resist elimination.
- Recognizing these warning signs of subpar indoor air quality is vital for the well-being and comfort of your family. If any of these symptoms resonate with your situation, do not hesitate to contact a professional.
The Role of Universal Duct Cleaning to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
Universal Duct Cleaning Company specializes in air duct inspections, air duct cleaning and air duct sanitizing treatments.
Each service call follows our proven 4-Step Quality Assurance Process to give you the best experience every single time:
- Assessment – Universal Duct Cleaning provides a free inspection, complete with photos to assess the condition inside your air ducts.
- Planning – We identify the specific needs of your air ducts and provide a written report with all our findings and recommendations.
- Cleaning & Sanitation – Our skilled technicians are capable of performing air duct cleaning, sanitization treatments, and dryer vent cleaning services.
- Follow-Up – After every service, we conduct a quality control call. If you’re not entirely satisfied, we’ll return at no extra cost to address any issues.
The pride in our service rests on our team of dedicated and skilled professionals. They are well-trained installers and use the latest cleaning technology to ensure homes have the best indoor air quality. Their meticulous attention to detail and comprehensive cleaning methods set them apart.
Homeowners can trust that their air duct cleaning needs are handled precisely and that their indoor air quality is significantly improved!
For more information about any of our services or to schedule an inspection, reach out to Universal Duct Cleaning at (757) 962-0419. Call us for the best air duct cleaning services today. We will do our best to help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common threats to indoor air quality?
Some common threats to indoor air quality include poor ventilation, mold, mildew growth, chemical pollutants from cleaning products and furniture, and allergens such as dust mites and pet dander.
How do mistakes in our daily routine impact indoor air quality?
Mistakes in our daily routine can negatively impact indoor air quality by increasing indoor pollutants such as dust, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
What three things should we avoid for better indoor air quality?
When striving for better indoor air quality, it is essential to avoid smoking indoors, using specific cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals, and neglecting regular ventilation and air filter maintenance. Installing a HEPA filter can help remove allergens, dust mites, and pet dander from the HVAC system.
What are the benefits of maintaining a clean HVAC system?
Maintaining a clean HVAC system can improve indoor air quality, reduce energy costs, and enhance the overall performance and longevity of the system. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help remove pollutants, dust, and debris from the system, ensuring optimal airflow and efficient operation.
What role does universal duct cleaning play in improving indoor air quality?
Universal duct cleaning plays a crucial role in improving indoor air quality by removing accumulated dust, debris, and allergens from the ductwork, thereby reducing the potential for pollution and promoting a healthier living environment. Air duct cleaning also helps in reducing allergens, dust mites, and pet dander for better indoor air quality.
What household items affect indoor air quality?
Having clean and healthy indoor air is important for a comfy home, and things like cleaning products, air fresheners, furniture, and building materials can affect the air we breathe. Cleaning products can have harmful chemicals, so using eco-friendly or natural options is a good idea. Air fresheners may contain stuff that can be bad for breathing and hormones, so choosing natural alternatives or opening windows for fresh air is better. Also, furniture and building materials can release harmful chemicals, so it’s smart to pick low-VOC or formaldehyde-free ones for cleaner air. In short, everyday items can impact indoor air, and making eco-friendly choices can make your home healthier and cozier.
How often should I get my air ducts cleaned?
Duct cleaning needs vary for each situation, and there’s no universal schedule. In a nutshell, you should clean them “when they become dirty.” Look out for the signs and symptoms of dirty ducts mentioned above to decide when it’s time. We typically recommend you have your ducts checked every 6 months or so, especially before a season where you know you’ll be running your HVAC system constantly.
