Most homeowners know that regular heating and cooling maintenance is essential for their homes. However, even homeowners who subscribe to regular heating and cooling maintenance may miss out on an important step. Duct cleaning is an essential part of heating and cooling maintenance. Here are three signs that you need to get your ducts professionally cleaned.

1. Something Smells Off

If no matter how much you clean, your home still smells a little stale, then the problem could be your ductwork. Ductwork can hang on to odors. Whenever the HVAC kicks in, that unwanted scent gets blown around the house. Ductwork can be filled with animal hair, dust, organic debris, and more.

Over time, that build-up takes on a profound odor. If you notice that you can't get your home to smell clean, then it's time to clean your ductwork.

2. You Need to Dust Often

Another sign that your ducts need some professional attention is if you're constantly dusting. If dust is building up in your home, and you feel like you're fighting a losing battle every time you dust, then the issue could be with your ductwork. Dust and debris that gets trapped in your ductwork will blow around the house every time your HVAC turns on.

Dusty ductwork can make your HVAC system work harder. Additionally, as the dust blows around your home and settles on items, keep in mind that it's also getting trapped in your HVAC filters. You must change your filters more frequently until you get your ductwork cleaned.

3. People Are Always Sneezing

Dirty ductwork is an allergy trigger. If you notice that you or your loved ones are sneezing more and displaying other allergy symptoms, then it can be your indoor air and dirty ductwork pulling the trigger. Dust, debris, and allergens that have settled in your ductwork get stirred up when the HVAC runs, and the dust, debris, and allergens come into the home through the vents.

According to Data Scope, heating and cooling maintenance can reduce breakdowns by 95%. Make professional duct cleaning a part of your regular maintenance to save yourself money down the line. You'll breathe easier, take better care of your HVAC system, and enjoy a cleaner home. Call the professionals at Andersen Air today to learn more.