Your ducts are out of sight, so most people only notice the effects. Here are the seven signs we see most often in Treasure Coast homes, and what each one usually means.
1. Dust comes back a day or two after cleaning
If you dust on Monday and it's back by Wednesday, your system is likely blowing settled dust out of the ducts every time it runs.
2. Dark rings around ceiling vents
Gray or black streaks around a register mean dust is blowing out, and sometimes that the vent boot has a gap pulling in attic air. Both are worth a look.
3. A musty smell when the AC turns on
In our humidity, dust inside the ducts can hold moisture. A musty smell can also come from a dirty evaporator coil or a slow drain pan, so it's worth finding the real source before paying for any cleaning.
4. Allergies are worse indoors
If sneezing or sinus trouble eases when you leave the house, the air inside may be carrying more dust, dander and pollen than it should.
5. You just remodeled or bought a new home
Drywall dust and sawdust get into ducts during construction and remodels, even in brand-new homes. Many Tradition and St. Lucie West homeowners are surprised by what we find.
6. Pets in the home
Pet hair and dander collect in the returns and ducts fast. Homes with dogs or cats usually need cleaning sooner than the typical 3 to 5 years.
7. Weak airflow from some vents
Heavy buildup can restrict airflow, but weak vents often mean a torn or disconnected duct instead. A camera or visual inspection tells you which.
What to do next
Start with an inspection, not a sales pitch. Our free air quality check includes photos from inside your ducts, so you can see for yourself whether a cleaning is worth it. If something is damaged, we'll show you that too and explain your repair options.