Here are the most common signs that your air ducts need cleaning, especially relevant for homeowners in Irving, TX where dust, allergens, and humidity can accumulate faster:
🚩 Signs Your Air Ducts Need Cleaning
1. Dust Blowing from Vents
If you see visible puffs of dust or dirt particles when your HVAC system starts, it likely means your ducts are full of buildup.
2. Musty or Stale Odors
Persistent unpleasant smells (especially when the AC turns on) may indicate mold, mildew, or trapped debris inside the ductwork.
3. Visible Mold Inside or Around Vents
Any mold growth near air registers or vent covers is a serious red flag. Mold can spread through your duct system and degrade indoor air quality.
4. Uneven or Weak Airflow
Blocked or dirty ducts often restrict airflow, resulting in hot or cold spots in different rooms.
5. Frequent Allergy or Respiratory Symptoms
An increase in sneezing, coughing, asthma attacks, or watery eyes indoors can be caused by airborne irritants like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander in your ducts.
6. Excessive Dust Around the Home
If you’re dusting more often than usual, or if furniture gets dusty shortly after cleaning, your ducts may be releasing trapped debris into your home.
7. Recent Renovation or Construction Work
Home improvement projects create large amounts of dust and debris that can get sucked into your air ducts, especially if the system wasn’t sealed off.
8. Rodent or Insect Infestation Signs
If you notice droppings, insect husks, or nesting material inside or near your vents, it’s time for a professional cleaning—and possibly pest control.
9. No Cleaning for 3–5 Years
If it’s been over 3 years since your last cleaning—or never—there’s a good chance dirt, dust, and allergens have accumulated in your ductwork.
