Every time you breathe indoors, you’re inhaling more than just oxygen. Invisible particles float through the air—some natural, some not so welcome. One of the largest contributors to indoor air pollution is something we rarely think about: what we shed.
From skin cells to pet dander, these microscopic materials can build up in your air ducts, especially in apartments and townhomes where HVAC systems are shared or inherited from previous tenants. This accumulation can affect your health, your comfort, and even your HVAC system’s performance.
At DUCTS Air Duct Cleaning LLC, we’ve seen firsthand how removing this hidden buildup transforms air quality especially for homes across Birmingham, Hoover, Trussville, Pelham, and surrounding areas.
How Much Do Humans Shed?
Believe it or not, the average person sheds 30,000–40,000 skin cells every minute. That adds up to about 9 pounds of dead skin per year per person. Multiply that by a full household, and your HVAC system can become a storage unit for dead skin particles.
Even if you vacuum and dust regularly, much of this debris gets pulled into your return vents and recirculated through your ducts, settling into areas you can’t reach.
Pet Dander: The Hidden Allergy Trigger
If you have pets, you’re adding even more to the mix. Cats and dogs constantly shed fur, dander, and microscopic skin flakes that easily enter the HVAC system.
Pet dander facts:
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Lightweight and sticky—it clings to ducts and filters.
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Can remain airborne for hours.
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Triggers allergies, asthma, and respiratory issues.
🧠 Did You Know? According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, pet dander is one of the top indoor allergens in U.S. households.
Pollen, Dust & Other Contaminants
On top of skin cells and pet dander, your HVAC system can also collect:
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Pollen from open windows or on clothing
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Textile fibers from carpets and furniture
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Construction dust (especially in newer or renovated homes)
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Mold spores and biological growth in humid climates
These pollutants don’t just settle—they circulate, especially if your air ducts haven’t been cleaned in years.
🛑 The Problem With Dirty Air Ducts
Air ducts are often “out of sight, out of mind,” but here’s what happens when they’re neglected:
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Dust and dander accumulate inside duct walls.
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Particles break loose and circulate in your air.
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Your HVAC system works harder, using more energy.
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Allergy and asthma symptoms intensify.
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Air smells musty or stale, especially in older townhomes or rentals.
🧠 EPA Note: The EPA states that if ducts are contaminated with mold, dust, or debris that restricts airflow, professional cleaning is recommended. (EPA.gov)
How Air Duct Cleaning Can Help
At DUCTS Air Duct Cleaning LLC, we remove the buildup of:
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Human skin cells
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Pet hair and dander
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Dust mites and droppings
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Mold spores
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Pollen and plant matter
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Rodent droppings (in rare cases)
Using negative air pressure vacuums and safe agitation tools, we dislodge, extract, and sanitize your ductwork—leaving nothing behind but clean, breathable air.
Health Benefits of Cleaner Air
When your ducts are cleaned, you may notice:
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Reduced allergy and asthma flare-ups
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Less dust on furniture and surfaces
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Improved sleep quality
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Fewer headaches, sneezing, or fatigue
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Better-smelling indoor air
Clean ducts mean a cleaner home environment—especially important for children, elderly residents, or anyone with breathing sensitivities.
Special Note for Apartment & Townhouse Residents
In many cases, renters and new homeowners inherit decades of buildup left by previous occupants. Even if the property looks spotless, the ducts may still contain:
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Dead skin from multiple residents
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Pet fur and allergens
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Cigarette or cooking residue
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Hidden mold or mildew
Don’t wait until you see the problem—by then, your lungs have already been dealing with it.
Regular Air Duct Cleaning: What’s Recommended?
We recommend duct cleaning:
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Every 2–4 years in average homes
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Annually if you have pets, allergies, or live in high-pollen zones
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After renovations or new construction
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When moving into a new apartment or townhouse
Don’t Forget Dryer Vent Cleaning
In addition to your ducts, your dryer vent collects lint, dust, and pet hair. A clogged vent is a fire hazard and can severely reduce dryer efficiency.
🔥 Tip: The U.S. Fire Administration recommends dryer vent cleaning at least once a year.
Why Choose DUCTS Air Duct Cleaning LLC?
We are proud to be a locally owned and operated business serving Birmingham and the surrounding areas. With every job, we offer:
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Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
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Certified equipment and trained technicians
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Full HVAC inspection before and after cleaning
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Honest advice with no scare tactics
Book Your Air Duct Cleaning Today
Don’t let the past linger in your air. Take a deep breath—and make sure it’s clean.
📞 Call now: 205-908-8946
🌐 ductsairductcleaningllc.com
📍 Serving Birmingham, Hoover, Pelham, Trussville, Vestavia Hills, and nearby areas.