(NAPSA)-Cooler weather can mean more days spent indoors and signal the need to spruce up your home for seasonal get-togethers. When getting ready for the cozy days ahead, don’t forget to clean your home’s air duct system.

Air ducts and ventilation systems can become clogged with dust, pet hair and other contaminants, making them a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.

When firing up the furnace this winter, you may notice a burning smell coming from your air ducts. This is an indication of dust buildup in your home’s ventilation system.

An easy way to tell if your system should be cleaned is to remove the vent with a screwdriver. If you see a collection of dust or mold, consider calling a professional heating and cooling system cleaning contractor.

Check that the company is a certified member of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), an organization that tests the knowledge of contractors for safe and effective heating and cooling cleaning. For more information and to find a certified Air Systems Cleaning Specialist near you, visit www.nadca.com.