Is Your HVAC System To Blame?
Do you find yourself constantly dusting your home? Do you dust and within a day or two the dust always comes back? Oftentimes, homeowners will look to outdoor sources or a pet to blame for an excessively dusty home. Is your HVAC system to blame for a dusty home? Often, a neglected HVAC system is the cause for a constantly dusty home. Keep in mind, that excess dust can lead to poor indoor air quality and can be especially bothersome for those that suffer from allergies. Below we explore common reasons why your HVAC system is causing the excess dust in your home and what you can do to remedy the issue.
Dirty Air Filter
Dust is made up of skin cells, pollen, hair, and dust mites. The air filter in your HVAC system is designed to capture many of these and other pollutants so they do not circulate throughout your home. An air filter should be replaced at least once every three months at the very least. A dirty air filter cannot trap dust particles, allowing dust to flow freely through your home. If you are noticing a significant build up of dust in your home, the first thing to do is to begin replacing them more frequently. Furthermore, a clean filter will help keep your HVAC system functioning properly and efficiently and potentially preventing future costly furnace or ac repairs.
Cheap or Incorrect Filter
If the filter is too cheap to trap the dust, the dust will continue to circulate through your home. It is important to invest in a better-quality filter. Pay close attention to the filter MERV rating. The higher the rating the more particles it will trap. However, first check the recommended filter rating for your system. If you install a filter with a MERV rating that is too high for your system, you can actually restrict airflow leading to different issues altogether. Be sure to also check that there is a tight seal around all sides as you place filter into the air return. An improperly sized filter, will allow for dust to flow through your system and home. Contact LA Construction, Heating and Air if you are unsure or want to learn how to change it and one of our technicians can show you during the next service visit.
Leaky Ducts
Poor ductwork installation, uninvited rodents, or aging ductwork can lead to small holes in the duct system. Any gaps in the ductwork can allow for dust to flow in at a point past your filter leading the dust out your vents and into your home. If you notice your home feels stuffy, inconsistent airflow throughout your home, or higher energy bills than usual you may have leaking air ducts. Contact LA Construction, Heating and Air a licensed HVAC technician for a thorough inspection of the ductwork and for any repairs that may be needed. Also take the time to inspect the doors and windows in your home. Add weather-stripping around any gaps or cracks to eliminate potential openings for excess dust to enter your home.
Dry Air
Excess dust is especially a problem during winter months, as dust travels farther and more freely in dry air. The effects of dust in a dry home can be mitigated by installing a whole house humidifier especially if you live in an extremely dry area. A whole house humidifier can be attached directly to your HVAC system and you will be able to keep the humidity levels where you want. Having the extra moisture in the air will help eliminate dust, and it is better for your health and the health of your HVAC system. A whole home humidifier can also help protect wooden furniture from becoming brittle and cracking.
Overdue HVAC Maintenance
If you do not maintain your AC and furnace on a regular maintenance schedule, it is time to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. At the very least your HVAC system should be maintained twice a year. Once in the spring for your air conditioner and furnace maintenance in the fall. A system that is regularly cleaned will help keep dust from building up in the system and traveling through your home. An HVAC system that receives regular maintenance can benefit from a longer lifespan, less risk for costly repairs, and better energy efficiency.
Inadequate Air Cleaning
While some homes benefit from a standard HVAC filter some homes need extra help getting rid of extra dust and other pollutants. Especially if you have pets or kids in the home you are likely to see more dust, dirt, and dander. Consider installing a more powerful filtration system such as an air purifier or air scrubber. An air purifier is designed to trap dust and other contaminants that the standard filter cannot before they travel through your home. An air scrubber uses a UV light to zap bacteria, viruses, mold, and other contaminants that may be in your home. These are effective solutions not only for dust, but other airborne contaminants as well. They are an effective choice and can lead to higher indoor air quality by creating cleaner, healthier and less dusty air.
Call LA Construction, Heating and Air
If you are looking for air quality solutions contact us today at 818-341-3406 or contact us online. We are here to help you and your HVAC system by providing the best solution that fits your needs. We understand the importance of a clean, healthy home and know excess dust or other pollutants can become a major nuisance. Give us a call today and let us help you with any of your HVAC needs such as repair, maintenance, or installation.
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