by Andrey Zhilin, indoor air quality expert
Florida homeowners hear it all the time: “You need to clean your air ducts.”
But is that just a sales pitch — or a smart move in a hot, humid climate?
Let’s separate myths from facts, so you can make the right call for your health, comfort, and budget.
Myth #1: “If air is flowing, my ducts are clean.”
Fact:
Airflow doesn’t equal cleanliness.
In Florida’s humid climate, ductwork can accumulate mold, pollen, dust mites, and pet dander — even when the AC seems to work fine. The system moves air, but it also moves contaminants from room to room.
Myth #2: “Only old homes need duct cleaning.”
Fact:
Newer homes in Florida can develop air quality issues faster. Why?
They’re better sealed — which means less natural ventilation. Dust, VOCs, and microbial growth accumulate quickly in tightly closed systems, especially if filters are not changed often.
Myth #3: “I change my filters, so I don’t need duct cleaning.”
Fact:
Filters catch large particles. But fine dust, mold spores, and bacteria can bypass or settle upstream — especially in bends, joints, and return vents.
If you’ve had renovation work, smoke exposure, or pests in the attic, ducts are often affected.
Myth #4: “If I don’t see mold, it’s not there.”
Fact:
Mold in ducts is often invisible — hiding behind grills, within insulation, or on coil surfaces.
Tell-tale signs include:
- Musty odors when the AC starts
- Allergy flare-ups indoors
- Black or grey dust on vent edges
- Uneven cooling in rooms
Myth #5: “Air duct cleaning is a scam.”
Fact:
Some companies overpromise and underdeliver — but professional duct cleaning done right (with negative pressure vacuums, HEPA filters, and antimicrobial treatments) has measurable benefits:
- Improved indoor air quality
- Reduced allergy and asthma symptoms
- Better HVAC efficiency
- Mold prevention in humid systems
At Sharky, we don’t upsell — we assess honestly. If your system’s fine, we’ll say so. If it’s not, we’ll show you before-and-after evidence — not just quotes.
Final Thought from Andrey
Florida’s climate isn’t just hot — it’s biologically active. That means air quality can decline even in spotless homes.
You don’t need duct cleaning every year. But you do need to know when your system is telling you:
“Help me breathe better.”
Read also: Fall Cleaning Checklist for Florida Vacation Rentals Before the Snowbirds Arrive
