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Health and Wellness: Are Dirty Air Ducts Harmful?

Health and Wellness: Are Dirty Air Ducts Harmful?

Every homeowner or renter has experienced HVAC system issues at least once in their life. Many individuals have probably encountered unpleasant smells exuding from AC vents or filters clogged with contaminants. Considering HVAC systems are responsible for proper air circulation throughout the home, it’s natural to wonder about one’s health and wellness. Are dirty air ducts harmful to ourselves, the family, pets, and guests? Read on to learn more.

Sick Building Syndrome

Long-term exposure to dirty air ducts, specifically systems with build-ups of pollen, dust, dander, and mildew, can cause progressive and serious health issues.

Over time, an individual living in a poorly sanitized environment may develop “sick building syndrome.” This affliction doesn’t present symptoms initially, but individuals could soon suffer from acute respiratory problems that may exasperate existing conditions or create new ones.

An Allergen Nightmare

Chronic illness is not fun, and over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies every year. The best way to prevent these nasty symptoms is by creating a home environment free of pollen, dander, and other allergens; however, dirty air duct filters can continuously circulate irritants that cause people with allergies to feel the effects every waking moment.

Individuals with asthma tend to suffer the most, and in some instances, reactions to the constant presence of allergens can cause life-threatening conditions. Additionally, dirty HVAC systems pose a health threat to newborns with underdeveloped immune systems.

Dirty Vents, Dirty Home

Unclean air circulation systems can quickly dirty up a once-clean environment; they spread dust and other debris throughout every room, creating countless dust bunnies and piles of allergens.

While this isn’t directly related to one’s health, a messy, unkempt house can have serious adverse effects on the body and mind. For starters, the presence of visible filth can cause mental health problems such as depression. Plus, dirty air can potentially speed up one’s aging process by accelerating the development of chronic illnesses.

The answer to whether dirty air ducts are harmful to your health and wellness is simple—yes! Fortunately, many of these physical and mental issues only present after long periods of exposure to contaminated air. Ensure you get a regular duct cleaning or schedule additional maintenance when you notice problems with the cleanliness of your HVAC system. We at Duct Squads have experts ready to help improve air circulation and make your home a healthy sanctuary!