Duct cleaning is a critical part of any HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems) system, and most homeowners don’t know the right way to go about it. The common answer is “just give it a good vacuum” but that answer is only true if you do not conduct air duct cleaning on a regular basis. The truth is that while vacuuming alone will not remove all the air-borne pollutants in your home, it can reduce them by removing tiny particles. So then, what is the best method?
Answer: As much as possible, let the professional do it! In addition to routine accumulations of dirt and dust found all throughout your home with poor air duct cleaning, there are other potential culprits that may increase your need for regular air duct cleaning: pets. Your dog just might be sucking on air ducts filled with his waste, or his litter box, which releases foul odors back into your home. A cat or a dog also carries respiratory problems such as bacteria and allergies. A poorly maintained animal vent system is a perfect breeding ground for these microbial criminals.
But don’t worry! Professional air duct cleaning companies have the tools and training required to keep your heating and cooling units working like new again. Some homeowners are so embarrassed about their poor air quality that they simply pretend that there’s nothing wrong, hoping that the problem will go away on its own. It rarely does. The only way to make sure you don’t have to spend large amounts of money to fix a problem that you, or a loved one, could have helped to eliminate is to call in a professional once or twice a year.
Regular air duct cleaning inspections are also important because of another potential problem: forced air. If your registers are not vented properly, you can be blowing cool air in and out of your home at an alarming rate. This can be very dangerous, because warm air can cause a deadly build-up of carbon monoxide, which is deadly without prompt exposure. By vacuuming your registers regularly, you can help to prevent this buildup from occurring.
Another common reason why homeowners seek the services of a professional air duct cleaning company is to reduce their overall heating and cooling costs. In fact, most homeowners who have forced air heating systems or solar air heaters realize that their energy bills are higher than they would like. Professional cleaners can often help you get those bills down by eliminating excessive air duct traffic, improving the quality of indoor air, and making sure your cooling system or heating system is properly vented. These specialists can make a big impact on both the comfort and the energy efficiency of your home.
When you call in a professional air duct cleaning service, take into consideration how long the ducts have been in place. If they’ve just recently been installed, or if they’re older models, they may need to be replaced sooner rather than later. Newer models often come with better seals, and newer models may be less likely to fail than older ductwork. It’s also a good idea to ask about the type of air cleaners or blowers that will be used. Some models require the use of a special air cleaner hose, while others rely solely on air flow to work. Make sure the service technicians you contact offer services for both types of air cleaners and air duct cleaning.