10 Important Duct Cleaning Questions
What exactly is “duct cleaning”?
Air ducts, like everything else in a home or commercial building, become dirty. They can be contaminated with dust, dirt, and biological matter that can spread through the area. Generally, the term duct cleaning is referring to the clearing and removal of these materials.
When should ducts be cleaned?
HVAC manufacturers and suppliers often provide instructions as to when their specific ducts should be cleaned. This is called a cleaning schedule and will depend on factors such as the climate, air contaminants, cost, filtration, and building occupants.
Are there any standards for duct cleaning?
In the United States, there are no official regulations or standards relating to duct cleaning. There are, however, generally ground rules in most places of employment. Duct cleaning is usually a matter of common sense.
Do duct cleaners use disinfectant when cleaning?
They shouldn’t. Most duct cleaning companies avoid the use of chemicals in the duct system, as chemical matter inside of the ductwork can become a health concern.
How do I know if my duct cleaning was effective?
You’ll know if your duct cleaning was effective by doing a visual inspection of the ducts. If you can see and debris or dust, the clean was not thorough enough. You can perform your own inspection with the use of a mirror and flashlight, but a professional duct cleaner will be able to tell you for sure, as he or she can access the hard-to-see parts of your HVAC system.
What criteria should I use to choose a cleaning company?
To choose the best air duct cleaning company, choose a company that meets the following criteria.
- Been in business long enough to have adequate experience
- Has good references
- Will show you proof of licensing
- Is knowledgeable about your specific home type
Does HVAC cleaning reduce my energy bill?
In a roundabout way, yes. A clean HVAC system will run more efficiently, which can ultimately mean the difference between a high energy bill and one that falls on the lower end of the price scale. You can think of it like a car- a car that has regular oil changes uses less gas than one that is allowed to build up and deteriorate. The same goes for HVAC systems.
How long does HVAC cleaning take?
For cleaning a standard size home, 2 technicians are usually hired. It typically take 2-2.5 hours but can take longer depending on the size of the home.
What are the methods used for air duct cleaning?
There are three main methods that are used: air sweeping, vacuuming, and rotary brushing.
How can I prepare my home for duct cleaning
On the end of the homeowner, there isn’t much that needs to be done. The technicians may need access to the basement, attic, or other rooms of the home. They may also request for pets to be put in another room or outside.