As the weather begins to warm, you begin spending more time outdoors and your system starts to work harder—exactly why now is a great time to have your air ducts cleaned.
Why Should I Have Air Ducts Cleaned?
Today’s houses are more airtight than ever, and carpets and furnishings are nearly all made from synthetic materials. The air-tightness helps you save on heating and cooling costs, while the materials are more resistant to wear and tear, and easier to clean.
Unfortunately, these things put even more pressure on your system. Air is trapped inside the house and recycled over and over again. Many synthetic substances are magnets for allergens; sometimes, the materials alone can trigger an allergic reaction. Dirty air ducts cause your system to run inefficiently and allow dust, pollen, and other allergens to drift into your living space.
When Should Your Ducts Be Cleaned?
Try to schedule your cleaning on a dry day. While every house needs a cleaning every year or so, duct cleaning is especially good for the following:
New Construction–Whether you’re building an entirely new house or adding on to your existing home, drywall dust and sawdust, and even larger debris, like soda cans and lunch bags, are probably still in the ducts.
The Sight Test–If you’re starting to see debris and dust on the edges, that nearly always means there’s a lot more dust and debris deeper inside. A related test: limited airflow usually means clogged ducts.
Water–If you see any moisture accumulation, the first step is to find the water leak and stop it. The second step is to have the ducts thoroughly cleaned to prevent dangerous mold buildup.
Pets–Our furry companions shed a lot in the spring. If you’re seeing pet hair on the floors and on furniture, it’s a near certainty that hair, dandruff, and other irritants are in your air ducts.
Sensitivity–Children and the elderly, as well as those with a family history of respiratory problems, are especially at-risk for indoor allergies.
What Is Air Duct Cleaning?
A professional cleaning job involves much more than vacuuming out the air ducts. Before work begins, a technician takes the time to inspect your system and explains what the cleaning process entails.
The term “air duct cleaning” is actually rather misleading, because your entire system gets a thorough cleaning. In addition to the air intake channels, a technician will clean every component: grills, drip pans, fans and motors, coils, and everything else. In addition, some parts may even be completely removed, then re-installed and reset. Finally, and if necessary, a technician can add a disinfectant to help keep the air cleaner.
You’ll definitely notice the difference the very first day, and for months to come. The inside air is fresher and more healthy, meaning that itchy and watery eyes may be a thing of the past; and your pumps aren’t working overtime to suck in the outside air using dirty parts and push that air through dirty intakes. Contact R&D Indoor Comfort to schedule a time to have the air ducts cleaned in your home or to request more information.