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New Construction and Air Ducts: What Buyers Should Check
Hey there, future homeowner! Excited about that shiny new construction property? We get it—everything smells like fresh paint and possibility. But before you start picking out throw pillows, let’s talk about something less glamorous but way more important: your air ducts. Yep, those hidden tunnels pumping air through your dream home might not be as pristine as you’d expect. And trust us, ignoring them could turn your “fresh start” into a sneeze-fest.
Here’s the deal: we’ve seen it all at 5 Star Duct Cleaning here in Austin. From drywall dust parties in brand-new ducts to moldy surprises in AC systems, new builds aren’t always as “clean” as they appear. Let’s walk through what you need to check—and why calling a pro (hint: us) might save your sanity (and sinuses).
Why New Construction Isn’t Always “Clean” Construction
You’d think a brand-new home means everything’s spotless, right? Wrong. Picture this: construction crews hustling to meet deadlines, sawdust flying, and debris getting sucked into your ducts like a vacuum cleaner on espresso. Suddenly, your HVAC system becomes a storage unit for all kinds of junk.
Here’s what often lurks in new ductwork:
- Drywall dust (the ultimate “welcome home” confetti)
- Insulation scraps (great for walls, terrible for lungs)
- Sawdust (free kindling, anyone?)
- Random screws or nails (because why not?)
And here’s the kicker: most builders don’t clean ducts before handing over the keys. They’ll tidy up visible areas, but the stuff you can’t see? That’s your problem now.
The Dirty Little Secrets of Brand-New Ductwork
Let’s get real: nobody wants to pay extra for duct cleaning after dropping a fortune on a new build. But skipping it? That’s like buying a new car and never changing the oil.
Construction Debris in Ducts = Terrible Roommate
Imagine blasting your AC only to get a face full of dust. Not exactly the “fresh start” vibe you wanted. Worse, that debris can:
- Clog your HVAC filters ($$$ replacements, anyone?)
- Reduce airflow (hello, uneven cooling!)
- Trigger allergies (achoo!)
Dryer Vent Drama
Oh, and don’t forget the dryer vent. Builders often slap the vent in without checking for obstructions. One client found a soda can lodged in theirs—true story. FYI: A blocked dryer vent is a fire hazard. So yeah, maybe get that checked.
Pro Tip: Book a post-construction air duct cleaning and dryer vent cleaning service before moving in. It’s like a spa day for your ducts.
Mold: The Uninvited Guest in Your AC Ducts
Nothing kills the new-home buzz faster than discovering black mold in air vents. And guess what? New construction is prime mold territory. Moisture from concrete, humid Austin weather, and dark ductwork create a mold paradise.
Why AC Duct Mold Cleaning Matters
- Mold spores spread through your HVAC system (gross)
- Health risks: allergies, asthma flare-ups, headaches
- Musty odors that Febreze can’t fix
Story time: A buddy of ours bought a new condo downtown. Two weeks in, his sinuses revolted. Turns out, his AC ducts had mold growing behind the vents. A quick vent mold cleaning later, and he could finally breathe (and stop blaming his cat).
Don’t Forget the Hood! (Especially for Commercial Spaces
Hey restaurant owners and business folks—this one’s for you. Commercial hood cleaning isn’t optional. Austin’s fire codes don’t mess around, and neither should you.
Kitchen Exhaust Hood Cleaning Service 101
- Grease buildup = fire risk (yikes)
- Dirty hoods stink (literally)
- Health inspectors will notice
We’ve worked with dozens of Austin restaurants who learned the hard way. One taco spot skipped their kitchen hood cleaning service for “just one more month.” Spoiler: They closed for a week after a grease fire. Don’t be that guy.
Finding Quality Service Without Breaking the Bank
We get it—budgets are tight. But “affordable” shouldn’t mean “cheap.” Here’s what to look for in an Austin duct cleaning company:
| Service | Average Cost in Austin | Why It’s Worth It |
|---|---|---|
| Air Duct Cleaning | $300–$700 | Removes debris, improves air quality |
| Dryer Vent Cleaning | $100–$200 | Prevents fires, boosts dryer efficiency |
| AC Duct Mold Cleaning | $500–$1,500 | Eliminates health risks, stops odors |
| Commercial Hood Cleaning | $200–$800/month | Meets fire codes, keeps kitchens safe |
Our hot take? At 5 Star Duct Cleaning, we keep prices transparent and competitive. No hidden fees, no upsells—just honest work.
3 Burning Questions (Answered)
1. “Do I really need duct cleaning in a new home?”
Absolutely. Builders rarely clean ducts, and you don’t want to inhale their leftovers.
2. “How do I know if there’s mold?”
Trust your nose. Musty smells or sudden allergies? Call for vent mold cleaning ASAP.
3. “What’s the average cost for these services?”
Prices vary, but you’ll find affordable options if you skip the fly-by-night companies.
Wrapping Up: Don’t Let Ducts Rain on Your Parade
Look, we’re not saying your new build is a toxic wasteland. But why risk it? A quick check by a pro (like, ahem, 5 Star Duct Cleaning) gives you peace of mind—and cleaner air.
Final thought: Your ducts are the lungs of your home. Treat ’em right, and they’ll return the favor. Spot an issue? Google “air duct cleaning near me” or just call us. We’re Austin’s duct nerds, and we’ve got your back.
Now go enjoy that new home smell—without the construction dust. 🙂
