4 Easy Ways to Check the Quality of Your Air DuctsÂ
Many people don’t realize the importance of regularly checking their air ducts. Just like any other system in your home, they need to be maintained in order to function properly. Luckily, checking the quality of your air ducts is a straightforward technique that anybody can perform. A flashlight, a screwdriver, and a flash camera are all you need. First, inspect your air vents and registers. If everything appears to be clean and in good shape, your ducts are most likely alright. If you discover any dirt or debris, it’s time to conduct a more complete check. Simply remove one of your vent registers and use the flash camera to view the inside. If everything appears to be in order, you’re good to go! However, if you discover any dirt or debris, you’ll need to thoroughly clean your ducts.
How Often Should You Check Your Ducts?Â
How often you need to check your air ducts depends on a few different factors. If you have pets, are smokers in your household, or suffer from allergies, it’s important to check them on a regular basis. Once every three months should suffice. However, if none of those factors apply to you, checking them once per year should be sufficient.Â
Signs That It’s Time to Clean Your DuctsÂ
Even if you’re not due for a routine checkup, there are several signs that indicate it might be time to give your ducts a thorough cleaning. reduced airflow from your vents, an increase in your energy bills, excessive dust buildup around your home, and strange smells coming from your vents are all red flags that something might be wrong with your ductwork. If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to take a closer look inside your ducts.Â
Cleaning Your DuctsÂ
If you do find that it’s time for deep cleaning, there’s no need to call in a professional – unless you want to! Cleaning your own air ducts is actually quite simple and only requires a few supplies that you probably already have around the house. All you need is a vacuum with a long hose attachment and some old rags or towels. First, turn off your furnace and make sure that all openings into the ductwork are sealed so that no dirt or debris escapes while you’re working. Next vacuum out each individual vent using the hose attachment – make sure to get all sides! Finally, wipe down all of the surfaces with an old rag or towel until they’re shining clean! And that’s it! Just put everything back together and turn on your furnace – easy as pie!Â
Maintaining the quality of your air ducts is important for both indoor air quality and energy efficiency in your home. Luckily, it’s easy to do yourself with just a few inexpensive supplies! By following these simple steps, you can rest assured that both your family and wallet will thank you!