Is There a Link Between Dirty Air Ducts and Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease affecting millions of people globally. For those who suffer from asthma, their surroundings often become a major determining factor in the management of symptoms and the prevention of flare-ups. Outdoor air pollution can easily be cited as a prominent trigger, but perhaps not as common oversight is the quality of the air inside one’s home. One potential cause of bad indoor air is dirty air ducts. But is there a connection between dirty air ducts and asthma? Well, we’ll go ahead and review the relationship as well as some measures you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.
How Dirty Air Ducts Impact Indoor Air Quality
The backbone of your HVAC system is the air duct system within your home. It delivers warm or cool air throughout your living areas. When not maintained regularly, dust, dirt, debris, pet dander, mold spores, pollen, and even harmful bacteria can fill these ducts and continue to recirculate into the air you breathe, resulting in poor indoor air quality.
Poor indoor air quality can cause numerous health issues, especially for people suffering from respiratory diseases such as asthma. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ranked indoor air pollution as one of the leading environmental health risks. However, what makes dirty air ducts a special concern for asthmatics?
How Dirty Air Ducts Can Trigger Asthma Symptoms
While filthy air ducts do not provoke asthma directly, they can make symptoms worse and general breathing status worse. For those people who already are diagnosed with asthma, minimizing exposure to these airborne irritants is one of the ways to control the condition.
Wheezing
- The particles in the air can irritate the lung’s air passages, making breathing hard.
Coughing
- Material such as spores of mold triggers a chronic cough in people with asthma.
Shortness of Breath
- High levels of airborne particles decrease lung function, which results in respiratory difficulty.
Mold: The Biggest Concern
- One of the most dangerous substances that can accumulate in dirty air ducts is mold. When water from humidity, leaks, or condensation enters the ducts, it provides an ideal place for mold to grow. Once started, mold emits spores that become airborne and can circulate conveniently throughout your house.
For people who have asthma, mold exposure may quickly cause serious health conditions including:
✔Continued coughing and wheezing
✔Tightness in the chest
✔Breathing difficulty
✔Sudden, full-blown asthma attacks
If mold is suspected in the air ducts, an individual should have them professionally cleaned, and any conditions that create moisture buildup must be addressed.
How to Minimize Asthma Triggers from Air Ducts
Replace Air Filters
- Replace HVAC filters every 1–3 months to ensure they capture contaminants effectively.
Control Humidity Levels
- Employ a dehumidifier to prevent moisture build-up and slow down mold from forming in air ducts.
Keep Your Home Clean
- Dust and vacuum your home periodically to reduce airborne allergens.
Inspect for Leaks
- Ensure your ductwork is sealed; some contaminants may try to come in from the exterior.
Cleaning Frequency
- Have your air ducts professionally cleaned every 3 to 5 years or more often if you have pets or live in a dusty environment.
If you are in the if you reside around Fairport, Victor, NY, Monroe County, Pittsford, Rochester, Brighton, NY areas and are looking for a professional service to get your air ducts cleaned, look no further. Pinnacle Eco Clean is an expert when it comes to dealing with dirty air ducts. They have 30+ years of experience, are NADCA-approved, and do the cleaning to the highest standards.
