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Air duct cleaning can help you avoid five of the major indoor allergy triggers that give most people fits. Even if allergies are not present, keeping air ducts clean can assist in improving overall indoor air quality and even the smell of a home.

Air duct cleaning is generally recommended at least once every three to five years. Some homes might require more frequent service. In fact, some families swear by having their ducts inspected and cleaned annually. When duct cleaning services are called upon, they remove dust and debris from the lines that run hot and cool air throughout a home. The end result is a lessening of particles that can be released in the air.

So, what kind of allergens can duct cleaning help lessen in a home? Let's take a look:

1. Dust mites. Found wherever there's a build up of dust and human skin cells, these critters are responsible for a host of allergy issues in people. Even when allergies are not present, dust and dust mites can still create breathing issues ' especially if there is an abundance of them in a home. Although microscopic, dust mites can wreak havoc on a home and its occupants. Cleaning ducts can help remove the layers of dust found in a duct system. In the process, it lessens the impacts this allergen can have on a home and its residents.

2. Insect and pest droppings. It is an unfortunate reality, but pests sometimes infiltrate air ducts. When they do, they leave behind their droppings. Gross, isn't it? Some people find themselves highly allergic to this type of feces, especially roach and vermin droppings. When air ducts are thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis, this issue is lessened, as well.

3. Animal hair and skin particles. These, just like dust and dirt, can be swept up into an air conditioning unit's intake system. In the process, these allergens can be released back into the air through the vent system. When air duct cleaning ensures that a build up of these allergens is also removed.

4. Pollen. Just like animal air, pollen can be swept into an air conditioning system. If dust and moisture are built up, it can get stuck. Eventually, it will be released again into the air through the duct system.

5. Mold. Allergies to mold and even sensitivities to it can be a huge issue for many people. Unfortunately, mold and bacteria can grow within air ducts if moisture is allowed to settle into place. When regular duct cleaning takes place, this issue and its impacts can be lessened greatly. It is important to note that air ducts are not the only sources of mold in most homes, however. Home should be inspected for mold problems on a regular basis.

While air ducts are not the only sources of allergens in most homes, they can serve as major circulators. When they are kept clean, people tend to breathe a lot easier. One of the best recommended DIY home maintenance tasks to prevent allergen circulation is deep cleaning. Create a list of deep cleaning chores and do not forget to remove dust from baseboards, drapes and other objects. This will ensure that less dust and allergens will be in the environment to get trapped in the air duct system.