Understanding the Fundamentals of Air Duct Cleaning
Central heating and air conditioning systems are the most common type of HVAC systems used in homes in the U.S. today. And unlike other HVAC systems like window AC units or ductless mini-split systems, central air systems rely on air ducts to deliver air throughout the home. Over time, dust, debris, and other contaminants can make their way into these ducts and cause problems - and that’s where air duct cleaning comes in.
One can do professional duct cleaning via various methods. Still, it typically involves sealing off the home’s air vents, applying negative pressure to the duct system (creating a vacuum), and agitating the debris to break it loose from the duct surfaces. The loose debris is then sucked away into the vacuum device. In some cases, this may be followed by applying EPA-approved antimicrobial chemicals to kill any remaining biological contaminants.
How To Tell When It’s Time for Air Duct Cleaning
Unlike many home HVAC maintenance tasks, which are typically done at regular intervals, duct cleaning tends to be done on an as-needed basis. So how do homeowners know when air duct cleaning is needed?
One common sign that the air ducts need to be cleaned is weak airflow from the vents. This could mean debris has collected and is blocking a section of the ductwork. This is often accompanied by an unusually high power bill, as the HVAC system will be struggling to circulate air through the ducts, diminishing efficiency. Rattling or whining sounds may also indicate a buildup of debris in the ducts. Strange odors coming from the vents are another common sign - mold and bacteria growth inside dirty ducts is especially common in humid areas.
Air Duct Cleaning Benefits
The benefits of air duct cleaning are enormous. Perhaps the most important benefit is that it improves indoor air quality by reducing allergens and contaminants like dander, dust, dust mites, mold spores, and bacteria that have become trapped in the home.
The improvement in airflow that comes with duct cleaning can also result in better HVAC performance and efficiency, which means that the house will be more comfortable and the homeowners can enjoy energy savings as the unit functions more efficiently. Removing obstructions and debris from the ducts helps protect the unit from contamination and damage to sensitive components.
How To Keep Air Ducts Clean Long-Term
As beneficial as duct cleaning is, it’s probably not something homeowners want to deal with very often - fortunately, they can take steps to keep their ducts as clean as possible between professional duct cleanings.
One great way to keep dust and debris out of the ducts is to replace the air filter every three months - or more often if the filter gets dirty faster due to pet hair or dirt from outside. Keeping the house swept, dusted, and vacuumed will also help reduce the amount of debris pulled into the ducts. It’s also a good idea to have the air ducts inspected as part of routine maintenance since leaky or damaged ducts will create an opening for debris and vermin to infiltrate the ductwork.
About Colonial Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc.
Colonial Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. has served Colonial Heights with pride for over 40 years. Their fast turnarounds, competitive pricing, community involvement, and rock-solid satisfaction guarantee have earned them numerous 5-star ratings and service awards. Their NATE-certified technicians are available 24 hours a day, so don’t hesitate to call Colonial for air duct cleaning in Colonial Heights, VA!
