10 Tips for Keeping Your Air Ducts Fresh and Healthy All Year Round

Unlocking a breath of fresh air at home goes beyond simply opening a window. Your air ducts also play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and comfortable living space. 

In this blog, we work you through top 10 tips that will not only keep your air ducts fresh but will have you breathing in the joy of a healthier home throughout the year. 

Keep reading to discover how to keep your air ducts and home fresh and healthy all-year long. 

Do I Have to Clean my Air Ducts Every Year?

One question that might pop-up in your head as you read on might be how often you have to engage in air duct cleaning activities.

Many people try to get their air ducts professionally cleaned every year. But sometimes, this may be unnecessary. While you don't have to clean your air ducts every year, we recommend securing professional air duct cleaning services every other year. 

However, the frequency of your air duct cleaning also depends on several factors, such as whether or not you have pets and how many people live in your home. Either way, if you think you need to clean your air ducts or you’re unsure of how often you should clean them, consider reaching out to professional air duct cleaning experts like Crystal Clean Vents.

10 Tips to Help You Keep Your Air Ducts Clean for Longer

Here are 10 game-changing tips that not only ensure a spotless duct system but also help you enjoy cleaner and fresher air for an extended period:

1. Regular Filter Replacement

Although it is unnecessary that you clean your air ducts as often as once yearly, your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system's air filters are your first line of defense against airborne particles that will make your air duct accumulate dirt.

It is essential to change these filters every 1-3 months because clean filters trap dust, allergens, and pollutants before they can enter your air ducts. Regular replacement ensures that your filters can continue to effectively capture contaminants, keeping your air ducts cleaner for longer.

2. Seal Leaks and Gaps

Another reason why your air ducts get dirty is due to leaky or poorly sealed ductwork that allow unfiltered air to enter your system. To keep your air ducts clean for a long period, regularly inspect your ducts for leaks and gaps or invite air duct cleaning expert to have a look at it. 

Sealing these openings helps prevent the infiltration of dust and contaminants, ensuring clean air ducts.

3. Maintain a Clean Home 

A clean home translates to cleaner air ducts. Dust, dirt, and debris in your living spaces can find their way into your ducts as they fly around. 

Regular cleaning routines, including dusting, sweeping, and vacuuming of the rooms in your home will reduce the amount of particulates that could end up in your air ducts, leading to clean air ducts.

4. Use Doormats

Placing doormats at entrances is a practical measure to keep your home and air ducts clean. When dirt and debris make their way into your home, they can settle on surfaces and eventually find their way into your air ducts. 

Once inside the ductwork, these particles can circulate through your home's ventilation system, potentially leading to respiratory problems and reduced air quality. Using doormats can help reduce the likelihood of these contaminants infiltrating your ducts, thus improving indoor air quality.

5. Keep Vents Clear

Proper airflow is vital for the efficiency of your HVAC system and the cleanliness of your air ducts. To reduce the rate at which your air ducts get dirty, avoid blocking or obstructing air vents with furniture, curtains, or other items. 

This ensures that the air can flow freely, reducing the risk of dust buildup within your ductwork.

6. Control Humidity 

Maintaining the right humidity level in your home is not only important for your comfort but also for preventing mold growth in your ducts. 

Excess moisture can lead to mold, which can degrade air quality. Keeping humidity levels within an appropriate range can help maintain clean air ducts.

7. Regular HVAC Maintenance

Scheduled professional maintenance for your HVAC system is essential. Air duct cleaning experts can clean and inspect your system, reducing the transfer of contaminants into your ducts. Regular maintenance ensures that your HVAC system operates at peak efficiency, promoting clean air ducts.

8. Use Quality Filters 

Investing in high-quality air filters with a higher Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values (MERV) rating is good air duct maintenance that keeps your air ducts cleaned for longer. 

These filters with high MERV rating are better at capturing particles, including dust and allergens than those without. By using quality filters, you can ensure that a greater proportion of contaminants are trapped, resulting in clean air ducts.

9. Ventilation Cleaning

Pay attention to your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans. These ventilation systems can become sources of moisture and contaminants. Regular cleaning and maintenance of these fans help prevent the spread of moisture and contaminants through your ductwork, ensuring clean air ducts.

10. Air Purifiers

Consider using air purifiers within your home. These devices are designed to reduce airborne contaminants. By removing a significant portion of particles from the air before they enter your HVAC system, air purifiers can lessen the load on your air ducts and contribute to cleaner indoor air.

Wrapping Up

By following these air duct maintenance recommendations, you can save on air duct repair costs. But more importantly, you can help ensure your family's well-being by keeping the air quality in your home fresh and healthy.

If you're looking for professional assistance, Crystal Clean Vents offers efficient air duct cleaning services and much more. Reach out to us today to schedule your next cleaning and take the first step towards a cleaner and healthier home