If you’ve been a homeowner for more than a few years, chances are you have plenty of experience with your HVAC system. HVAC filters need to be changed regularly to avoid potential issues, ranging from poor air quality to rising costs and long-term component strain.

One of the key contaminants trapped by such filters, among many, is dust. Dust is not only an annoying material, it can be an allergen and a major contaminant in many homes and needs to be controlled. Let’s go over several factors, including air filters, that may lead to dust accumulation in a home, plus how you can limit this risk.

Air Filters

If your home has become too dusty recently, the first area to check on will be the filter in your HVAC system. This filter should be changed at least once every few months, if not more often depending on the type of filter you’re using.

If they are not changed often enough, filters will fill up with dust and other contaminants, eventually clogging and not removing these particles. Dust will spread out within the system and your home as it continues to run, which will not only increase the dust content in the area, but also strain HVAC components and risk failure earlier than you would have expected.

Air Ducts

If you’ve checked your filters and ensured they have been recently changed and are clean, the next area to look at for dust concerns is your air ducts. Any improper seals or leaks in the ducts risk allowing unfiltered air into the system, air that will bypass even a healthy filter and make its way into common areas.

One common sign here is dust building up near vent registers. If you notice this or other such indicators, speak to HVAC professionals about a duct cleaning service.

Window or Door Cracks

Another way dusty or contaminated air can get into your home? Through doors or windows that are not properly sealed or have developed cracks. You can often spot these issues with the naked eye and use caulking or other materials to settle them. You can also enlist HVAC professionals for tests to determine if air is being allowed in through cracks or other openings.

Humidity

Finally, in areas that have low humidity levels, dust content is a particular risk. When the air becomes too dry, dust becomes more plentiful. If you’re in such a situation, you might consider contacting HVAC pros about installing a humidifier in your home to up the levels. However, be careful you don’t raise them too much – too humid a space has its own set of risks, such as dust mites and mold formation.