What can happen if air ducts are not cleaned regularly?

When air ducts are not cleaned regularly, dust, dirt, allergens, and other contaminants can accumulate within the ductwork. This build-up not only obstructs airflow but also compromises the overall efficiency of the HVAC system. As a result, the system has to work harder to circulate air, leading to increased energy costs.

Additionally, the presence of contaminants in air ducts can negatively impact indoor air quality. Pollutants can be recirculated into living spaces, which may aggravate allergies and respiratory issues for occupants. Therefore, regular cleaning of air ducts is essential for maintaining both energy efficiency and a healthy indoor environment.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of neglecting air duct cleaning. For example, improved airflow and reduced dust levels would not occur if the ducts are not maintained; rather, the opposite is true. Similarly, neglecting duct cleanliness is unlikely to result in less noise from HVAC systems or lower energy efficiency in appliances, as these factors are more closely associated with how well the system operates rather than its maintenance state.