Things That May Be in Your Air Ducts

Name: Airduct Cleaning & Radon Co.
Address: 1251 S Front Ste B, Columbus, OH, 43206, United States
Telephone: 614-799-8530

Many homeowners operate under an “out of sight, out of mind” cleaning policy. As long as you can’t see the mess, you’re okay with it existing. That’s why we have junk drawers, overflowing storage closets, and in some cases, garages where the inside is best left unseen.

While this policy works fine for the most part, there are certain areas where you should not apply this philosophy. For example, your air ducts. Just because you can’t see the inside of your air ducts, doesn’t mean they don’t need to be cleaned.

There are many things that can be found in there…

Dust and Debris

This shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone. Dust inevitably filters into your home, and left untouched, it will cover just about everything. While you can easily dust off the furniture and objects throughout your home, it’s not so easy getting into your air ducts.

Over time, piles of dust and miscellaneous debris can grow in your ducts. As air filters through them and out the vents, it can bring this extra dust with it, dirtying your air and making your home extra dusty.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are two types of fungi that can find their way into many places of your home. Left untreated, they’ll spread, damaging your home and posing potential health risks.

These fungi thrive in moist, dark environments, making an air-duct the perfect place for them. The only to know it’s there is to have your ducts inspected and cleaned.

Animals

Just like mold, most creatures that enter your home like to hide where it’s cool and dark. That makes your air ducts a great home for them. The most common living things found in air ducts would be mice or spiders, but sometimes bats, birds, and even snakes have been found there.

Of course, they’re not always living. Sometimes, animals can get trapped in there and die.

Either way, it’s the last thing you should want in your air ducts.

Getting Your Air Ducts Cleaned

Cleaning out your air ducts isn’t easy, but it’s important. That’s why it’s best left to a professional. For commercial and residential air duct cleaning in Dayton, Ohio and the surrounding area, contact Air Duct Cleaning & Radon Co. today!

Whatever might be lurking in your air ducts, we’ll take care of it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Testing Before Basement Renovation

How long does radon testing take, and when should I do it?

Short-term tests typically run for 48 to 96 hours. That’s enough to get a clear baseline before renovation. If you're on a tight timeline, we offer same-day professional radon testing, using calibrated digital monitors with faster turnaround and higher accuracy.

🛠️ Pro Tip: Schedule your test at least a week before framing or insulation begins — that gives you time to take action if mitigation is needed.

Will finishing my basement make radon levels worse?

Often, yes. Finishing a basement reduces natural ventilation, seals air pathways, and creates negative pressure zones — all of which can trap radon gas inside. We frequently see radon levels double or triple after renovation.

If you plan to install drywall, flooring, or closed-cell insulation, test first. It's much harder to retrofit a system once the space is finished.

Do newer homes still need radon testing?

Absolutely. In fact, newer energy-efficient homes are often more airtight, which can amplify radon accumulation.
Radon isn’t about age — it’s about soil conditions, slab construction, and airflow. We’ve mitigated brand-new builds in Columbus that tested over 10.0 pCi/L before occupancy.

How often should I test for radon in a finished or remodeled basement?

The EPA recommends testing every 2 years, but after a basement remodel, you should test immediately after the work is complete — even if you tested beforehand.

🎯 And if you already have a radon mitigation system, make sure to re-test after any HVAC upgrades, insulation changes, or new construction that may affect airflow.

What is a safe level of radon gas before finishing a basement?

Below 2.0 pCi/L: No action needed — considered low risk.
2.0 to 3.9 pCi/L: Consider mitigation, especially if children live in the home.
4.0+ pCi/L: The EPA’s action threshold. Mitigation is strongly advised.

🔎 We’ve seen plenty of “borderline” homes spike to dangerous levels after finishing — so if you're anywhere near 4.0 pCi/L, don't wait.

Final Takeaway: Test First, Then Build

The only way to ensure a safe renovation is through early detection. Testing for radon before finishing your basement isn’t just smart — it’s essential.

Call (614) 799-8530 to schedule a professional radon consultation Licensed. Proven. Local. - Get answers before you build — and breathe cleaner air afterward.

Serving Columbus, Dayton, Springfield, Cincinnati, and all of Central Ohio

Call [614-799-8530]airduct-cleaning.com