Can Dirty Air Ducts Make You Sick? The Dirty Truth About HVAC Ductwork

If you're dealing with constant allergies or respiratory issues without a known cause, you may be wondering if dirty air ducts can make you sick. While your HVAC system is designed to circulate clean air, ductwork that isn’t given its fair share of TLC can become a breeding ground for dust, allergens, mold, and bacteria. 

The Environmental Protection Agency says there’s no evidence of dirty ductwork causing severe illness, but they still recommend getting ducts cleaned on an as-needed basis. 

Common Signs of Ductwork Buildup

When your home’s ductwork sees an excessive buildup of dust, mold, and debris, it can negatively impact your indoor air quality and cause minor health issues. Apart from visually inspecting the ductwork, be on the lookout for these common signs and symptoms:

• Increased allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes

• Worsening asthma or respiratory conditions

• Unpleasant musty or stale odors coming from air vents

• Excess dust accumulation around vents and throughout the home

Benefits of Cleaning Your Ductwork

Besides preventing dirt, dust, and buildup, there are many benefits of keeping your ductwork clean. 

• It can improve the air quality in your space by eliminating allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. 

• You’ll notice an improvement in the overall cleanliness of your home since dirt and dust won’t be constantly circulating and settling on floors, furniture, and other surfaces.

• You can squash a vermin infestation. 

• You can stop mold issues before they become bigger problems. 

• Air flows more freely, which can boost the efficiency of your HVAC system. 

• It helps reduce strain on your HVAC system, prolonging its lifespan. 

Who to Hire to Clean Your Air Ducts

Hiring a professional local air duct cleaner ensures the job gets done thoroughly and safely. These experts use specialized equipment to remove deep-seated dust, allergens, and debris while preventing damage to ductwork or your HVAC system. They can also identify potential issues, such as mold growth or leaks, that might go unnoticed otherwise.

Another hiring option is a professional HVAC technician. These pros have deep knowledge of HVAC systems and can also perform a general inspection to spot other potential issues. However, they may not have the same level of task-specific skills as a specialist focused only on air duct cleaning.

How Much Does Air Duct Cleaning Cost?

The average cost of air duct cleaning is $400, but it can range anywhere from $150 to $800 depending on the number of vents and your home’s square footage. 

You can also schedule a regular HVAC inspection from a professional HVAC technician for $100 to $300. As a bonus, they’ll be able to diagnose other issues and take care of any other services you might need to maintain your HVAC system.