Ever feel like you spend a lot of time dusting?
Your heating and cooling system may be partly to blame.
#1 – Your air filters are adding to the problem
Air filters come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You should never buy one by price alone. Instead, look to the MERV rating (Media Efficiency Rating Value) to help select the right one. A MERV rating should never be less than 8 – they don’t have the efficiency to keep things like pollutants and spores from traveling throughout your home.
But even if you have a top of the line filter, it won’t work if it’s dirty. Make sure you update your air filter on a regular basis, especially if you have a busy home or have used your heating or cooling system more than average.
#2 – Your ducts have leaks
According to EnergyStar, as much as 30 percent of the average home’s duct system has leaks. And because ductwork travels through naturally dirty places – your attic and behind walls – these leaks can impact the air delivered to the rooms in your home.
The best way to prevent dust from blowing throughout your home is to have an HVAC technician inspect your home for duct leaks. If they find a leak, they will seal them up to prevent further air from escaping to the wrong places.
#3 – Your ducts may be dirty
It only stands to reason that if dust is blowing through your ductwork because of leaks that it can also settle deep within your ductwork and cause potential problems.
The next time you dust, be sure to clean the grills and vent covers. Also, dust or wipe down the ducts located right behind the grills. If you’ve had any major remodeling or a problem with dust in the past, it may be time for duct cleaning to ensure your system is clean, top to bottom.
One in three of our regular service calls is a result of lack of regular maintenance or timely filter replacement. WIth these two simple acts, you can save money in the long run by having a more efficient system in place.
When was the last time your HVAC system had a maintenance call?