Summer in Washington and Oregon can be rough on indoor air quality. Between wildfire smoke, extra dust, open windows, and people constantly going in and out, your HVAC system can end up moving a lot more junk through your home.

And there’s something many homeowners don’t realize: many HVAC systems in the Pacific Northwest have fresh-air intakes that pull outdoor air into the home.

That means some of the dust and particles outside can make their way into your HVAC system and ductwork.

How Often Should I Change My HVAC Filter?

It depends on the size of your filter.

  • 1-inch filter: Usually recommended every 3 months, but changing it monthly during summer and early fall can help with extra dust and smoke.
  • 4-inch filter: Usually recommended every 6 months, but changing it every 3 months during dusty or smoky months can be a good idea.

A dirty filter makes your HVAC system work harder and can allow more dust and particles to circulate through your home.

Does Air Duct Cleaning Actually Help?

It can. Over time, dust, allergens, dust mites, bacteria, mold and mildew spores and other particles can build up inside your duct system.

Having your air ducts professionally cleaned once a year can help reduce the amount of built-up debris being circulated throughout your home.

Duct cleaning may be especially worth considering if you notice:

  • Your home gets dusty shortly after cleaning
  • Dust coming from your vents
  • You recently had construction or remodeling done
  • Your HVAC system has been running heavily
  • Your home has a musty or dusty smell

Don’t Forget the Simple Stuff

Your ductwork isn’t the only source of indoor dust. Open windows, doors, pets, foot traffic, and drafts can all bring outdoor particles inside.

But your HVAC system can keep moving those particles around long after they enter your home.

A Cleaner HVAC System Starts With Simple Maintenance

Change your filter. Keep your ducts clean. And give your HVAC system a little extra attention during wildfire and dusty months.

A cleaner duct system means less built-up debris for your HVAC system to push around your home.