The need for air duct cleaning can be determined by having a trained expert do a visual inspection. Most HVAC systems will collect your standard dust and small debris throughout the ductwork over time. HVAC systems can also become compromised when other household factors come into play. These factors include but are not limited to pet hair, dander, cigarette or cigar use in the home, water intrusions or chemicals that enter the duct system.
It is our opinion that home renovations should trigger the automatic need for your system to be cleaned as part of the post-construction cleaning. The renovation will allow very fine particulates like drywall and hardwood floor dust to get into the system. This fine dust will start to build up along the walls of the ductwork. These particles are now being pushed back into your air stream which could cause respiratory issues over time. Think of your air duct system as a body, what you breathe in must come out.
HVAC Systems and Air Quality
Let’s discuss how an HVAC system affects indoor air quality. First, we will talk about keeping your house clean and things to avoid. In our normal use of our homes, schools, etc. we generate a great deal of air pollutants like dander, dust and chemicals. Our opinion is that using a standard broom to clean with only contributes to making a system dirtier. While sweeping, it breaks down the dirt into finer particles that are now easily sucked into your air duct System and possibly bypassing your filters. The second factor would be the use of chemicals to clean floors. When you mop a floor with a floor cleaner and you have floor vents it increases the chance of getting chemicals into your system. These chemicals may sit in a portion of the ductwork and off-gas until it dries up. The result can be respiratory issues and possible rusting of your ductwork. A lot of times these indoor air quality issues are assumed to be seasonal allergies and thus the air duct system never comes to mind.
Is Air Duct Cleaning Worth It?
To answer the question about whether it is worth it, that is a resounding YES. Ensuring your indoor air quality is balanced should be enough to have your air ducts cleaned. Then add to that the energy savings. When an HVAC system is cleaned it does not have to work as hard to maintain the set temperature you desire for your comfort. As a result, less energy is used leading to improved efficiency which will help save you money.
According to the U.S Department of Energy, “25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating and cooling a home is wasted because of a dirty system.”
Contact Octagon Cleaning and Restoration for Your Next Air Duct Cleaning
When you are ready to clean your air ducts make sure you choose a NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaning Association) certified contractor to ensure it is done properly. They are the authority on the proper methods of cleaning air duct systems. We recommend going to NADCA.com to find a contractor. Simply enter a zip code and it will populate a list of certified companies in your area.
Breathe easy and get it done by a professional like NADCA certified Octagon Cleaning and Restoration. Contact us today!