The process of duct cleaning requires specialized tools, such as rotary brushes and high-powered vacuum equipment. Doing this task yourself can result in damage to your ductwork. You should consider hiring a professional air duct cleaning company with years of experience. Duct Cleaning uses materials and tools that are safe for the environment and your family’s health. You can also try DIY methods such as using compressed air, which is a safe method to use in small areas, but it can damage your ductwork and will have a negative impact on the energy efficiency of your home.
Whether you live in an older house or a newly constructed home, you can expect your ducts to be filled with potentially harmful debris. As construction progresses, particles from the ground and construction work will accumulate in the ductwork. This dirt can cause health problems, so it’s important to call a professional to get your ducts cleaned. If you notice splotchy discolorations, they are most likely caused by mold.
Before attempting to clean your ducts, you should hire a professional HVAC technician. These technicians can open access panels and use vacuum attachments to clean the ductwork. They will inspect the system to make sure there are no asbestos fibers. Asbestos is a fiber that’s highly toxic, and it’s common to find it in duct connectors. If you suspect the presence of asbestos, you should hire a qualified contractor because it will require special procedures and equipment to remove it safely.
If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you should always consult a doctor before undergoing a duct cleaning. Your doctor can prescribe alternative treatments or may suggest a duct cleaning service. In addition, it’s best to have your HVAC system checked regularly to ensure that it’s operating as efficiently as possible. It will also help prevent the need for expensive repairs in the future. This simple maintenance will also prevent the need for expensive duct cleaning.
While a professional duct cleaning service will remove microbial growth, you should consider checking your air filters regularly. You should replace them every two to three months. In addition to cleaning your air ducts, a reputable duct cleaning company will clean your heating and cooling equipment. When hiring a professional, be sure to get evidence of mold growth and infestation before hiring someone to clean your system. The process may not be necessary if you live in a small apartment or condo, but it’s definitely worth a try.
A portable vacuum will do the job of cleaning a large area of ductwork, but a roto brush will not remove all of the debris. In addition to using a roto brush, a professional duct cleaner will also use imaging devices, such as mirrors and periscopes, to see inside the ducts. Although these tools are effective for spot cleaning, they are not efficient enough for thorough duct cleaning.
Besides the aesthetic benefits of a clean home, a dirty air duct will lower the quality of air in your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), poor indoor air quality is the fourth largest threat to human health. Not only do you need to take steps to control indoor sources of pollutants, but you also need to install an efficient HVAC air filter. A whole house air cleaner can also help you improve your indoor air quality.
While a general recommendation is to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years, it may not be necessary for every home. For example, homes near trees and plants that produce pollen may require more frequent cleaning. Also, a clean duct may benefit people with respiratory conditions and asthma. This means you should consult with a heating and air conditioning company for a consultation. There are many reasons to hire a professional, including the price.
Professionals who provide air duct cleaning services may also use a chemical biocide to kill bacteria and fungi. While this can prevent the growth of these microorganisms, some duct cleaning service providers also use ozone, a highly reactive gas that is regulated in outdoor air as a lung irritant. These treatments should be used only after a thorough cleaning of the entire system. You should never use a chemical biocide on your own.
When choosing a company for air duct cleaning, make sure they belong to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association. If they are, you can be assured that they use specialized tools and know the ins and outs of HVAC systems. You should also choose a company that is certified by NADCA, as it ensures the job is done safely and according to the most recent standards. Duct cleaning professionals should be certified by the NADCA.