Some businesses that provide air duct cleaning will naturally recommend you get yours cleaned regularly. However, there's no definitive answer to the question of whether each individual homeowner should have their air ducts cleaned. Cleaning air ducts while ignoring such other HVAC components as fans or cooling coils will not significantly improve the efficiency of the entire heating and cooling system.There are specific circumstances that warrant air duct cleaning, though. Homes with substantial mold growth, deposits of dust, or an infestation of insects or rodents should definitely have their air ducts cleaned. Here's what that process is and how it helps.
What Does Air Duct Cleaning Involve?
Air duct cleaning generally involves cleaning components of the HVAC system, such as the supply air vent and register, as well as the return air vent and register, fan motor and housing, heating and cooling coils and drip pans. If these components aren't properly installed, maintained or working, dust and debris can accumulate in them. In addition, the presence of moisture can result in mold growth, which can aggravate allergies in anyone who's especially sensitive to mold.If you decide to have your air ducts cleaned, make sure the service provider is certified and agrees to clean all components of the system. If even one component is ignored, the entire system can become contaminated again. The actual cleaning process will include using special tools to dislodge debris in the ducts, followed by vacuuming the debris with a powerful vacuum cleaner. Some providers might suggest applying chemicals inside the components to kill microbiological contaminants or to prevent mold growth or the release of particles into the interior of your home.It's important to hire only a professional service provider. Some states, including Texas, require air duct cleaners to be licensed. A professional service provider will open all access ports to inspect the entire system before cleaning. They'll take special care to protect your floor coverings and furnishings. They'll also make sure to protect all ductwork and seal access holes so they're airtight.
When Should You Consider Air Duct Cleaning?
If someone in your household suffers from allergies or other respiratory conditions, you should consider having your system's ductwork cleaned occasionally. This is especially important if there's visible mold on any of the components. However, you may not be able to see mold in some areas, so it's a good idea to have a service provider thoroughly inspect the system if you detect a musty smell around the ductwork.You should certainly have your air ducts cleaned if there's an infestation of rodents or insects in the system. The ducts should also be cleaned if they're clogged with dust or debris and the particles enter your home's interior through an air vent or register.If you're ready to have your air ducts cleaned, contact Green Energy of San Antonio today.
