Regardless of how clean your home is, your duct work is likely collecting some level of dust and debris. This is because your HVAC system helps purify the air in your home. As it cycles through the system, the air is cleaned, and dust and debris is trapped in the air filter and vents. Even if you change your air filters on a regular basis, pollutants often get trapped in the ductwork and vents. This is even more true if you have pets or more people living in the home. As dust and debris collects, it creates a layer of flammable material throughout the duct work. This can become a fire hazard if not properly maintained.
Why are dusty vents a fire hazard?
Air ducts and your heating and cooling system ductwork can be incredibly dangerous places if not properly maintained. Because duct work is “out of sight, out of mind,” you don’t really know what happens there on a day-to-day basis. In all homes, dust, debris and pollutants collect in the duct work. If the duct work is not properly cleaned and maintained on a regular basis, this dust and debris can become kindling for a fire. Not only are dust and debris highly flammable, but the air ducts provide a place where fires can easily smolder and spread. This is especially true in the winter months when homeowners have their heating system cranking.
Reducing Risk of Fire
The only sure way to reduce the risk of a fire in your heating and cooling system due to dust is to remove or reduce the amount of dust. Cleaning your duct work on a regular basis not only keeps your HVAC system operating at maximum capacity, but it greatly reduces the risk of dust-related fires. Removing the build-up removes any potential flammable material, making the system safer and more reliable. Additionally, having your ducts cleaned regularly helps improve the air quality in your home and keeps your system running at high efficiency.
Schedule Your Duct Cleaning Today
If it is time for your annual HVAC system maintenance – or maybe you don’t know the last time you had your furnace, air conditioner or duct work serviced – call the team at Central Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical to schedule your maintenance today.