With summer winding down, it's time to get ready for cooler temperatures. Those cooler temperatures mean that you're going to be turning your heater on soon. When you do, you'll want to make sure that it's running smoothly. If you're going to be having your furnace cleaned and serviced before winter, it's a good idea to have your ducts looked at too. You might not realize this, but your ducts are an integral part of your heating system. Here are three reasons why you should have your ducts cleaned before winter arrives.

Remove Allergens

If someone in your home suffers from allergies or breathing-related illnesses, you should have your ducts cleaned whenever you see dirt accumulating around the vent covers. That's a sure sign that you have allergens building up in the ducts. Throughout the year, particles of dirt, pet dander, rodent droppings, mold, and even insect droppings can build up inside the ducts. Each time you turn your heater on, the air blows through the ducts, sending those particles through your home. You can remove the allergens and keep the air clean inside your home by having your air ducts professionally cleaned.

Keep Your Heater Running Efficiently

If it's been a while since you had your ducts cleaned, your heater might not be running as efficiently as it should be. Unfortunately, dirty air ducts make your heater have to work that much harder to properly heat your home. The dirt and debris that's trapped inside the ducts passes right through your heater. Eventually your heater will get caked with dirt and dust. To prevent problems and keep your heater operating properly, you should have your ducts inspected for dirt buildup. It's also a good idea to clean the filter compartment each time you have your ducts cleaned.

Improve the Smell of Your Home

If your home has been smelling dirty and musty no matter how much you have cleaned, the odor might be coming from your ducts. This is particularly true if you can't remember the last time they were professionally cleaned. Those same pollutants that are making it difficult for you to breathe are also leaving your home smelling dirty. By keeping your ducts clean, you'll be able to keep the air in your home smelling fresh.

Winter is almost here. Time to get your heater ready for the cold weather. While you're cleaning your heater and getting it ready, take the time to have the air ducts in your home cleaned too. Call a company such as Memorable Air Care to set up an appointment.