The need for duct cleaning
Can your family benefit?
You have enjoyed the fresh air in your home as mild temperatures carry you into fall. Now, as you anticipate closing the windows and turning on the heat, you may be wondering if having your ducts cleaned will keep your family healthier.
Duct cleaning is typically not part of a furnace or HVAC check-up, and is generally not recommended as annual maintenance. There is no indication that frequent duct cleaning improves operation of your furnace or HVAC system. However, there are times when duct cleaning is warranted.
- If you are moving into new construction, your ducts should be cleared of construction debris, including saw dust and other trash.
- If you can actually see debris, dust or mold in the ducts or components of your system you should get them cleaned, as there are portions of the system that are not visible to you. Work with a technician to identify areas of concern, especially possible mold.
- If a member of your family is asthmatic or has breathing problems, more frequent duct cleaning may be helpful, especially if your HVAC does not have an upgraded filtration system.
- If you have dealt with a nesting issue with rodents or insects, a duct cleaning is advised after the infestation has been eradicated.
If you are considering duct cleaning, be sure you are working with trained and licensed technicians. Under normal circumstances, duct cleaning is probably needed no more than every 5 to 7 years, and you may go as long as 10 years. Also understand that a proper cleaning involves more than removing registers and will likely take two to four hours, depending on the size and style of your HVAC system. Most companies will also clean your dryer vent.
A thorough and complete job using appropriate tools to dislodge and remove debris is crucial if your family is to benefit from the cleaning. The job should include addressing supply and return air ducts and registers, and grills and diffusers, as well as cleaning the heat exchangers, air handler and housing, heating and cooling coils, drain pans, and the fan motor and housing. Your technician will remove dust, pollen and debris, and will check for moisture that could cause mold and spores.
What to expect
- A thorough inspection of your system before cleaning to identify any problems and confirm no asbestos is contained in insulating materials.
- All access plates should be opened to allow use of dislodging tools and high-powered vacuum hoses to remove debris and dust.
- Vacuum equipment should either exhaust outside the house or should be equipped with a HEPA filter.
- Equipment should use soft-bristled brushes to protect fiberglass and sheet metal ducts.
- Deteriorating seals and wet or damaged insulation should be replaced.
- If moisture or mold is detected, your technician may recommend biocides or chemical treatments that are designed to kill contaminants and prevent future mold. These should be applied only after the system is fully cleaned.
If you are considering getting your ducts cleaned or you believe your ducts may be in need of cleaning and you need a professional opinion, it’s important that you work with a company trained and experienced in the process. For an inspection and more information about duct cleaning in the Akron area, contact Falls Heating & Cooling. In the Canton and Massillon area, contact A & L Heating & Cooling.