Evaluation of Duct Cleaning Benefits
Duct cleaning benefits can be significant in heating and air conditioning systems. Typically, homeowners have a furnace and cooling unit, usually located inside, connected to air ducts. The hot or cold air is blown into the rooms, then back to the equipment, in a continuous cycle. The return air passes through a filter, which may or may not remove pollutants.
Household contaminants result from normal living activities. Smoke, cleaning chemicals, and animal dander are all culprits. Flowering plants shed pollen. Dust often contains allergens that accumulate in ducts. In the worst cases, mold or fungi flourish in enclosed spaces. Significantly dirty systems can adversely affect the health of residents.
Prevention of contamination is the first step. Filters need to be replaced when dirty and equipment serviced regularly. Wipe dust off registers and grilles with a damp cloth. Drain pans need to be kept clean, and coils kept free of debris. Sources of moisture, such as humidifiers, must be used and maintained properly. Any leaks should be repaired, to keep dust, water, and insects out, and clean air in.
Traditionally, ducts were made from sheet metal. Today, many are fabricated from flexible material, usually lined with plastic or other type of insulation. The type of equipment and cleaners used will depend on construction and accessibility.
Ducts can benefit from do-it-yourself cleaning. Although most homeowners don\’t have professional tools or training, they can remove registers or grilles and attempt to vacuum out contaminants. Even with a long extension hose, they likely won\’t be able reach all areas. Although the process seems simple, damage is a big risk, especially with flexible tubing. There\’s also the possibility of releasing more pollutants into the room air.
Factors to consider in hiring a service provider include asking for references and obtaining a written estimate. Some charge by the hour, so understand what all is included. It\’s always a good idea to verify reputations with the Better Business Bureau or local consumer protection offices. Some states require licensing, so be sure to confirm that the company has met all state and local obligations.
Annual cleaning is not necessary for nearly all systems. Usually every few years is enough, depending on factors like the quality of intake air and age of the system. If mold is discovered, ducts may need replacement, rather than cleaning. Older systems might contain asbestos. If so, they must be removed by a specialist.
Competent cleaners will inspect all duct work before proceeding, often with a camera. They open all registers, grilles, and doors for inspection and cleaning. The ducts themselves are usually vacuumed, however soft brushes are used for those made from fiberglass. They must also give attention to components such as coils, blowers, humidifiers, drain pans, the heat exchanger, and the plenum.
Some providers routinely suggest spraying chemicals inside the ducts, to prevent mold and fungus growth. Before allowing that, the homeowner must be certain it\’s absolutely necessary, as those chemicals do not have EPA approval and there may be adverse effects. Mold or any bacterial growth should be confirmed by an independent laboratory.
The National Air Duct Cleaners Association holds member companies to certain standards. Most providers also belong to other organizations governing how work is performed. Duct cleaning benefits include cleaner air and cost savings from systems that operate more efficiently.
For commercial duct cleaning Kitchener or residential duct cleaning London, visit the professionals cleaners at the Ontario Duct Cleaning company.
For commercial duct cleaning Kitchener or residential duct cleaning London, visit the professionals cleaners at the Ontario Duct Cleaning company. http://ontarioductcleaning.ca/
Author Bio: For commercial duct cleaning Kitchener or residential duct cleaning London, visit the professionals cleaners at the Ontario Duct Cleaning company.
Category: Home Management
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