Have you had your air ducts cleaned recently? Many homeowners delay this process because professionals recommend a cleaning every 2-3 years. But as a realtor in Winnipeg, I suggest that if you have pets, children with allergies, or a high-traffic household, more frequent cleanings are necessary. If you’ve noticed any one of these four signs, you need to call a professional air duct cleaner.
No Matter What, It's Always Dusty
Is your home dusty even though you’ve spent hours dusting, wiping and vacuuming? Your HVAC system might be the culprit. Turn on your HVAC system and look at the register; if you see a small initial puff of dust come out, you’ve found your problem. A small puff can mean a large amount of dust is trapped in the ducts. Get a professional to come check it out!
Your Air Filters Are Clogged
Changing or cleaning your air filter can be a mindless task and an easy one to forget. A filthy disposable or reusable filter can be a sign that your ducts need cleaning. If you catch this early and get on a regular rotation of replacing/cleaning your filters, this can reduce and prevent the need for a full air duct cleaning. Here's a tip from a realtor in Winnipeg: Go to Costco and buy them in bulk! You're more likely to change the filters out often when you know you have a few lying around.
There is Uneven Airflow
Inconsistent airflow in your house can be a sign that a cleaning is needed. Uneven airflow can be caused by debris/dust build-up and that's definitely not something you want to live with it. It can also be caused by leaky ducts that have become ripped or degraded. Be sure to ask your HVAC technician to check for both during your HVAC inspection.
Lingering Unexplainable Odour
You’ve cleaned the laundry, you’ve emptied the wastebaskets, you’ve scrubbed the house, but you still can’t pinpoint that odour? Unfortunately, it might be from your ducts. Don’t wait, call a professional. They can identify and fix any mold issues and hopefully prevent it from returning. Dust or debris can cause odour, but in more serious cases, it’s from mould/mildew. Which nobody wants or needs in their life.
Insects or Rodents Start Popping Up
Every now and then insects, squirrels, and mice can move into your air ducts. Any kind of living thing in your air ducts is an issue but especially rodents. Once they move in, it can be hard to get rid of them and they're also known to chew through things. Also their poop is not something you want in the air of your home If you start noticing dead bugs or their husks, and rodent droppings, call a professional ASAP. The last thing you want is some sort of infestation in your home.
Cleaning out your air ducts is not something you should do yourself. You should call a professional to make sure the job is done right. As a realtor in Winnipeg, we hope these tips help make your home as comfortable as possible.
