Do your energy bills seem to just keep climbing up despite cutting down on consumption? A possible culprit: dirty air ducts. HVAC systems re-circulate indoor air multiple times a day — so much so that dust, pollen, and other debris begin to accumulate in the air ducts.
This buildup can restrict airflow over time, causing your cooling — and heating systems to work a lot harder. Here’s everything you need to know about how air duct cleaning can help reduce your energy bills.
How Dirty Air Ducts Increase Bills
You’d be surprised to know just how much dust is generated every single year in a home. While some of it settles onto surfaces, the majority of the debris is still suspended in the air. HVAC systems, when re-circulating air, also tend to pick up dust and debris which leads to clogged air ducts.
Here’s how obstructed air ducts affect your bills:
Restricted Airflow
The collection of dust, pollen, and other debris in your air ducts hinders the smooth airflow that your HVAC system is otherwise used to. This causes it to operate inefficiently, which means it has to run longer and work harder to heat or cool your room — inevitably leading to higher energy consumption.
Increased Wear and Tear
Clogged air ducts put extra strain on your HVAC system to push air through them, leading to increased wear and tear. All that extra exertion means your system uses more energy, which ultimately drives up your energy bills. Not to mention, more frequent maintenance.
Thermostat Problems
It’s no surprise that a struggling HVAC system will not maintain temperatures as well as it once used to. This means you’ll either have to set your thermostat to a significantly higher — or lower temperature to get the same amount of heating or cooling.
How Often Should You Clean Your Air Ducts?
When it comes to air duct cleaning and how often you should get it done, there’s no right or wrong answer. It entirely depends on where your home is located, how old your HVAC system is, and whether or not you have pets.
As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to clean out your air ducts every 3 to 5 years. However, if you notice an unexplainable increase in your energy bills, excessive dust around your home, or strange odors from your HVAC, it might be time to schedule a cleaning earlier.
Also read: Top Reasons to Schedule Regular Air Duct Cleaning for Your Home
Additional Tips for Energy Saving
When it comes to managing household expenses, every little bit counts. Apart from cleaning out your HVAC’s air ducts, here are some steps you can take to reduce your energy bills.
Regular Maintenance
Your HVAC system works all year round, and when it’s working so frequently, scheduling regular maintenance for it can make a world of difference. From changing filters to checking for leaks, you can stay well ahead of any bad news.
Seal off Any Leaks
Take some time out to investigate any possible air leaks, around windows, doors, and other openings. By sealing these leaks, you can prevent warm or cool air from leaking, thereby reducing the workload on your HVAC.
Upgrade your Thermostat
Programmable or smart thermostats allow you to set temperature schedules. Upgrading to these handy gadgets will ensure your system only runs when you need it most.
Looking to Save Money on Your Energy Bills?
Air duct cleaning is a simple yet effective way to improve your HVAC system’s overall efficiency and reduce your bills. Combine air duct cleaning with other energy-saving measures, and you’ll be well on your way to a more efficient and cost-effective home.
Are you ready to take the next step? Get in touch with Alpha Clean Air to schedule a professional cleaning service today. Our team uses state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure your air ducts are thoroughly cleaned. Don’t let dirty ducts drain your finances, contact us today!
