The Benefits of Duct Cleaning

Duct cleaning involves the removal of dirt, dust, allergens and other contaminants from the interior surfaces of your forced air system. It improves indoor air quality, airflow, odors and operating costs.

It also reduces the risk of dryer vent fire – the number one cause of residential home and apartment building fires in the United States.

Health Issues

When ducts are left uncleaned for long periods of time they can be the perfect breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and fungus. These contaminants are then recirculated throughout the home, causing many health problems like allergies, coughing and sneezing, itchy eyes and nose, asthma and other respiratory issues.

Additionally, if your house has recently been remodeled or built new, those dirty ducts can be a breeding ground for rodents, insects, and other vermin who are looking for a place to live and nest. They will leave droppings and chewed materials all over the ducts which can then spread throughout the home.

Dirty ducts can also cause sinus problems because of the low air quality. They can irritate the mucus membrane in your sinuses and lungs, resulting in headaches, fatigue, and a runny nose. These symptoms can be especially troublesome for those with autoimmune disorders or other respiratory conditions. They can even trigger asthma attacks and make them worse.

Dirty Air Filters

Dirty air ducts can trap harmful micro-organisms that contribute to respiratory issues. Getting your home’s air ducts regularly cleaned can eliminate dust, dander, pollen mildew and mold spores. This will help keep the air in your house clean and fresh, making it ideal for asthmatic patients and those with other respiratory conditions.

Dirt in your air ducts can also make the HVAC system work harder. This leads to lower energy efficiency and higher bills, so it’s important to get them regularly cleaned.

Some companies claim to apply biocides or other chemical treatments to ductwork and other components in order to “encapsulate” the contaminants and prevent them from being released into the living space. While these products may seem appealing, they aren’t supported by research or evidence. In addition, they have not been proven to reduce indoor air pollution. As such, they’re best left to reputable contractors who use the proper cleaning equipment. This includes vacuums with HEPA filters to ensure that all contaminants are removed from your ductwork.

Increased Energy Bills

Whether you use natural gas, fuel oil, propane or electricity to run your furnace and air conditioner, your system still requires electrical energy to operate fans that force conditioned air through your building. If your ducts are clogged with dirt, dust and other debris the system will have to work harder to move air through your building. This will increase the amount of power your heating and cooling systems consume, increasing your electricity bills.

Duct cleaning can also help lower your energy bills by decreasing the amount of dust circulating in your building. Dust that settles in your ducts tends to stay there, only becoming airborne when disturbed.

Besides the dust, ducts can contain rodent waste, mold and mildew. These contaminants can be expensive to remove and can increase the final cost of a duct cleaning project. If these conditions are not corrected before duct cleaning is performed, the problem will likely recur. Fortunately, NADCA member contractors will make sure to clean all areas of your ductwork and do not leave behind any hidden pockets of dirt and debris.

Reduced Home Value

When a duct cleaning company tries to scare you by telling you your home has mold, ask for proof. They should be able to show you a valid certificate of insurance from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) or the Florida Consumer Services Commission that covers them for liability and worker’s compensation.

Duct cleaning is not cheap, and it’s important to find a reputable contractor who will do the job right. Beware of companies offering a low price, which may indicate they aren’t properly insured or qualified to do the work.

A reputable duct cleaning company will have a thorough pre-inspection of your duct system and offer a detailed estimate before starting work. They’ll also be able to tell you whether your ducts are dirty or simply clogged and what will be needed to clean them. Using improper equipment, such as brushes and household vacuums, can create more blockages and spread contaminants around your home.

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