The Hazards of Dust in Your HVAC System and Home

Dust often accumulates on your furniture and creates dust bunnies on the floor. It can also clog your HVAC system’s ductwork. As a result, it can waste energy, lead to expensive breakdowns and shorten its lifespan. The dust in your Arlington, Virginia, home contains many hazards, including dust mites, chemicals and biological growth. Read on to learn more about the hazards of dust in your HVAC system and home.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic bugs that eat small flakes of dead skin. Many people are allergic to them, and their waste can cause asthma attacks.

If you get frequent rashes or have trouble breathing at night, your home could have dust mites. Wash your sheets and blankets frequently, and dry them at the highest temperature setting. You should also use hypoallergenic bedding that won’t make a good home for dust mites.

Chemicals

The dust in your home contains dozens of compounds, and many of them can cause health problems. Volatile organic chemicals, like benzene, acetone and formaldehyde, evaporate at room temperature. They’re common in fragrances and cleaners, and they can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue and other symptoms. Young children are especially vulnerable.

Fortunately, you can get rid of these compounds by using plenty of ventilation and choosing natural fragrances and cleaners. You can make your house smell amazing with potpourri or essential oils. Baking soda mixed with water will help you clean almost any mess.

Biological Growth

The dust in most homes has thousands of different species of bacteria, viruses and fungi. Some cause colds and other illnesses, and many people are allergic to others.

Biological growth behind your wallpaper, underneath carpets, and in other areas will reduce your indoor air quality and damage your home. You can kill microorganisms in dust by adding a UV air purifier to your ductwork or HVAC system’s outdoor unit. You can also reduce them with a dehumidifier.

Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning is a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer with more than 35 years of experience. We can help you reduce dust and improve the indoor air quality in your home. Call us anytime at 703-783-0145 for excellent service from our expert service technicians.

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