The number of people who suffer allergies continues to grow. In fact, according to statistics provided by medical researchers at John Hopkins University, more than 50 million Americans currently deal with allergies. To put this number into perspective, allergies are now so common that they are number six on the list of the leading chronic illnesses in the U.S.
Most allergy sufferers are more comfortable and better able to function normally when the spaces where they live and work are free of contaminants and allergens. if you or a member of your family suffers from allergies, having your HVAC ducts cleaned may be helpful in increasing their comfort level in your home. Here are the most important reasons why.
Actions and habits of previous owners
If the home you purchased was an existing one with one or more previous owners, as most are, the ducts may be hiding multiple forms of bacteria and contaminants. Each time the furnace or air conditioning fan engages, these contaminants are blasted out into the living areas of your home where they can be breathed in by someone who suffers an allergy.
If the previous owners of your home created allergens through their living habits, it can affect any allergies that you or your family members may suffer. Some examples of these habits include:
- Smoked inside the home
- Had poor housekeeping habits
- Kept pets
- Had rodent or insect problems
As the HVAC recirculates air through the ducts, vents, and cold air returns of your home, these contaminants continue to be spread throughout the living areas where your family spends time. Having the ducts professionally cleaned will help to eliminate these contaminants and prevent them from being recirculated through the home.
Mold and mildew inside the ducts
Another common problem that occurs inside the ducts of HVAC systems is the accumulation of condensation. This is particularly common in ducts that must travel through unheated or uncooled spaces, such as attics, basements, or crawl spaces. Over time, this moisture can allow mold and mildew to blossom, the spores of which will then spill out into the living areas of the home where they can irritate allergy sufferers. Homeowners who have mold or mildew inside their ducts can alleviate the problem by having their ducts professionally cleaned.
To learn more about the benefits of having your home's ducts cleaned, homeowners can discuss their concerns with a reputable local duct cleaning company.
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