Can Dirty Air Ducts Make You Sick?

If you have asthma or allergies, you know how uncomfortable it can be to breathe in dust and debris. You also know how important it is to keep your home clean and free of indoor pollution.

Air Duct Cleaning are a major source of pollution and can worsen pre-existing respiratory conditions. This is why it’s so important to get regular air duct cleanings.

1. Allergens

If you haven’t been cleaning your air ducts, there are likely a lot of allergens in them. These include dust, pollen, pet dander, and other particles that get stuck inside the ducts when they aren’t cleaned.

These are known to cause allergic reactions in people that come into contact with them, often leading to a variety of symptoms such as itchy throat, eyes, and nose. In some cases, these reactions can even be life-threatening.

2. Bacteria

Bacteria are tiny, single-celled organisms that float through air, survive in water, and spread through hands, food, and the air when you cough or sneeze.

Many bacteria don’t make you sick, but some types can. These include Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and E. coli, among others.

When you have a dirty or clogged air vent, it can create a perfect environment for bacteria to grow and thrive. This could lead to respiratory issues in you and your family.

3. Insects

Insects are the largest group of animals in the phylum Arthropoda. They have segmented bodies, jointed legs, and an external skeleton called an exoskeleton.

In insects, the head is at the front of the body and contains mouthparts, eyes, and antennae. The thorax is at the back of the body and contains three pairs of jointed legs (hence “Hexapoda”) and one pair of wings in adults.

Insects are important for their role in pollinating plants, destroying organic matter, and acting as food for other animals. But they can also make you sick, especially if they contaminate your indoor air.

4. Mold & Mildew

Molds thrive on moisture Air Duct Cleaning Charleston SC, so they can grow anywhere there is a damp environment or organic material. Leaky air-conditioning duct joints, foundation leaks, high interior humidity and overflowing washing machines are all common sources of moisture.

Mildew, on the other hand, is more likely to grow on flat surfaces such as window sills and shower walls. It can also grow on clothing, paper and leather that has been left to rot.

5. Rodents & Insects

Rodents are a common problem in many homes. They can chew through electrical wiring and insulation, causing fires.

Rats are particularly destructive. They chew holes in roofs that leak rainwater into walls, causing mold and wood rot problems.

They also carry various diseases, like hantavirus, salmonella and others. These can cause serious illnesses and even death in some cases.

6. Asthma & Allergies

Asthma is a respiratory condition that affects the airways (tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs).

People with asthma often react to things in the environment that irritate their airways. These are called triggers.

When these triggers irritate your airways, they cause inflammation and narrowing of your airways, a condition called bronchospasm. This causes symptoms like coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath.

7. Sinus Infections

When you have a sinus infection, you might have yellow or green drainage that runs down your throat. This drainage can make it hard to breathe and can make you feel ill.

Sinus infections are typically caused by viruses like colds, bacteria or fungi. A virus usually clears up on its own, but bacteria can last longer and need antibiotics.

8. Cold & Flu

The common cold is a virus that causes a runny nose, coughing, sneezing and sore throat. It is most common in winter and can be very contagious.

If you or someone in your family is suffering from cold or flu symptoms, it may be a sign that your air ducts are dirty. Dirty air ducts are a perfect place for viruses, germs, and bacteria to get trapped.

9. Poor Indoor Air Quality

The average American spends 90 percent of their time indoors, where air pollution can be up to 2 to 5 times higher than outdoors.

Conclusion

When you are inside your home Air Duct Cleaning Charleston, breathing dirty air can lead to a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues and allergy symptoms. Symptoms may include itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, fatigue, and headaches.