Tips on Deciding if My Air Ducts and Dryer Vent Need Cleaning

Air duct and dryer vent cleaning is an element of home maintenance that often goes overlooked until it is too late. Your air ducts provide heating and cooling for your home, as well as a return for air to be re-conditioned through the system. The dryer vent provides an outlet for the warm air of a dryer to be expelled – along with a lot of the lint generated during the drying cycle – out of your home. There are some general guidelines to follow when it comes to maintaining these systems, and you should also keep an eye out for some early warning signs that could signal it is time for an inspection and cleaning.

Air Duct Cleanliness for Your Health

Air ducts carry air throughout your home to provide the comfortable climate-controlled temperatures to which we have all grown accustomed. Along with warm or cool air, they also carry dust, odors, and pet hair. These contaminants collect inside the ductwork, as well as on heating and cooling coils, grills, and fans.

Some signs you might be ready for a complete air duct cleaning include:

• Dusting more frequently than normal
• Foul odors
• A flare-up in allergies
• Mold

Mold often grows in damp areas and can pose major health issues to occupants. The EPA recommends cleaning air ducts on an as-needed basis, so if any of these issues arise, you may see benefits in scheduling a cleaning.

Dryer Vent Cleaning Could Prevent Fires

Dryer vents expel hot air and lint out of your home during laundry drying. These vents are highly susceptible to lint buildup over time, creating a serious fire hazard. In addition to the combustion risk, clogged dryer vents result in reduced efficiency for your dryer, potentially shortening its lifespan. Annual inspections and cleaning are highly recommended, but if you notice a sudden excessive heat buildup from the dryer or the need to run the dryer for multiple cycles to dry your clothes, it is probably time for a cleaning.

If you spot any of these warning signs that your air ducts or dryer vent are due for a cleaning, contact the professionals at Guardian Home Services today for an inspection and cleaning at (972) 567-0000.