Most people are now aware that indoor air pollution is an issue of growing concern and increase visibility. One of the things that can be done to help improve indoor air quality is having the air ducts in the home or building cleaned. Duct cleaning generally refers to the cleaning of carious 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. If not properly installed, maintained, and operate, these components may become contaminated with particles of dust, pollen, or other debris. If moisture is present, the potential for microbiological growth is increased and spores from such growth may be released throughout the home or building. Some of these contaminants may cause allergic reactions to other symptoms in people if they are exposed to them.
The question gets asked all the time, why should we clean the air ducts? The answer is simple, because they get dirty! There are two main reasons that most people get air ducts cleaned, improved indoor air quality and energy savings.
Indoor air quality is one concern that property owners have when they decide to investigate air duct cleaning. The heating and cooling systems act as lungs for the property as the system takes in air and breathes it out. Through normal occupation of a home or building, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants such as dust, dander, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this recirculation causes a buildup of contaminants in the ductwork.
Energy Savings is another reason why people look to get their air ducts cleaned. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of energy used for heating or cooling is wasted. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten the life span of the system. Although filters are use, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use. When an HVAC system is clean, it does not have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire and as a result, less energy is used which leads to an improved cost effectiveness. Clean HVAC systems are also less likely to break down and thus have a longer life span.
If you do decide to have your heating and cooling system cleaned, it is important to make sure the company you hire cleans all components of the system and is qualified to do so. Failure to clean a component of the system can lead to re-contamination of the entire system. It is always recommended to use a company that is NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) Certified, like the Gerloff Company. Until next time my friends, be prepared and stay safe.
Reference: NADCA.com and “Should you have the air ducts in your home cleaned” by the United States Environmental Protection Agency
