(1) Most people are now aware that indoor air pollution is an issue of growing concern and increased visibility. Many companies are marketing products and services intended to improve the quality of your indoor air.
(2) Duct cleaning generally refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grills and diffusers, heat exchangers, heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans (drip pans), fan motor and fan housing, and the air handling unit housing. Make sure the duct cleaning company cleans all of the HVAC related components for a thorough cleaning.
(3) If not properly installed, maintained, and operated, HVAC components may become contaminated with particles of dust, pollen or other debris. If moisture is present, the potential for microbiological growth (e.g., mold) is increased and spores from such growth may be released into the home's living space. Some of these contaminants may cause allergic reactions or other symptoms in people if they are exposed to them.
(4) Methods of duct cleaning vary, although standards have been established by industry associations concerned with air duct cleaning. Typically, a service provider will use specialized tools to dislodge dirt and other debris in ducts, then vacuum them out with high-powered vacuum type cleaning equipment.
(5) Some professionals suggest that duct cleaning should be carried out once every year. However, you may do it more frequently or less frequently depending on your needs and constraints. Make sure to hire a qualified and certified duct cleaning company as this type of work must be performed in a precise and professional manner, following certain protocols.
(6) The frequency or reasons to clean your ducts are primarily driven by some of the following: (a) home occupants suffering from asthma, allergies or chronic respiratory problems and need more frequent cleaning to insure cleaner ducts, (b) homeowners with pets may want to clean more frequently due to pet ‘dander’ build up in the duct lines, registers and trunks, (c) home renovation or remodeling projects often produce much more dust and debris which can and will be channeled into the air duct system because of the static pressure air flow from return air to supply air duct lines.
(7) Be sure to ask your duct cleaning professional about “continuous negative pressure”. This pressure or vacuum allows contaminants to be removed from your home without releasing contaminants or potentially undesirable particulates into your living area.
(8) Contractors should carry personal liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. Avoid doing business with contractors who don’t carry the appropriate insurance. Otherwise, you may be held liable for any injuries and damages that can occur during a project.
