At Ducts On Call Inc., we specialize in enhancing indoor air quality and ensuring optimal air duct odor elimination. We are a fully licensed and insured service provider dedicated to delivering top-notch air duct cleaning and dryer vent cleaning services.
We take immense pride in our air duct cleaning service!
According to the EPA, it’s vital to consider having the air ducts in your home cleaned if:
1. There is substantial visible mold growth inside hard surface ducts or on any other components of your heating and cooling system. It's important to note that many sections of your system may not be accessible for visual inspections, so we recommend asking your service provider to show you any mold they identify.
2. Though a substance may appear to be mold, a definitive identification can only be made by an expert, often requiring laboratory analysis for confirmation. Some microbiology labs can confirm the nature of a sample for approximately $50.
3. If your insulated air ducts become wet or moldy, the insulation cannot be effectively cleaned and should be removed and replaced.
4. If the underlying conditions that caused the mold growth are not addressed, mold is likely to recur.
5. Ducts infested with vermin (e.g., rodents or insects) require immediate attention.
6. If ducts are clogged with excessive dust and debris, particles can be released into your home through the supply registers.
These conditions often indicate underlying issues that must be resolved before any cleaning, retrofitting, or duct replacement can take place; otherwise, the problem may come back.
Research indicates that cleaning components of heating and cooling systems, such as cooling coils, fans, and heat exchangers, can improve system efficiency and potentially extend its lifespan, along with providing some energy and maintenance cost savings. However, the evidence that cleaning ducts alone enhances system efficiency is minimal.
You might consider routine air duct cleaning due to the logical assumption that ducts accumulate dirt over time. As long as the cleaning is done properly, there is no indication that it would be harmful. While the EPA does not recommend routine duct cleaning, it does suggest cleaning as needed. Additionally, for homes with fuel-burning furnaces, stoves, or fireplaces, inspection and servicing each heating season are crucial for preventing carbon monoxide poisoning.
When selecting a service provider for your air duct cleaning, it’s essential to do your due diligence in assessing their competence and reliability.
Some cleaning service providers may suggest applying chemical biocide to eliminate bacteria and fungi and prevent future growth. They might also recommend using a sealant to keep dust and dirt particles from entering the air or to seal air leaks. It’s crucial to understand the implications of using chemical biocides or sealants; while these may be useful under certain conditions, research hasn’t conclusively proven their effectiveness or their potential health risks. Currently, no biocides are registered by the EPA for use in internally insulated air duct systems.
Regardless of your decision on air duct cleaning, the best preventative measure is to keep water and dirt from contaminating your system.
