It’s safe to say that your HVAC system is one of the most important appliances in your home. It’s responsible for keeping you comfortable, filtering out nasty allergens, and much more. To be effective, the HVAC system needs to function efficiently. That’s where cleaning and maintenance comes in.
One popular maintenance task involves cleaning the air ducts, which have the tough job of circulating air throughout your home. Since all the air you breathe flows through these ducts first, wanting to clean them is only natural.
But can cleaning them cause damage? If someone doesn’t clean them the right way, damage is a real possibility. So, you shouldn’t trust DIY methods or untrained professionals to complete this task. Instead, you should find a certified and highly trained company to do the work for you.
How does one find good duct cleaning services? We’ll discuss that further below, but first, let’s take a look at some other things you should know regarding air duct cleaning.
The Benefits of Duct Cleaning
The most obvious benefit of duct cleaning is that it helps make your HVAC system work more efficiently. Over time, ducts can gather dust and debris that prevent air from flowing easily. Cleaning that debris out of the system prevents clogs and blockages.
When left in your ducts, debris can be dangerous. More allergens wind up in your home’s air, which you are likely to breathe. Your HVAC system also has to work harder. Plus, the added debris opens you up to a greater risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Cleaning your air ducts keeps clean air circulating through your home and improves airflow through your HVAC system. Ultimately, this keeps you safer and can even help you save money since your system will function better. Duct cleaning can even make your system last longer because it cuts down on the wear and tear of your system.
How are Ducts Cleaned?
Of the many duct cleaning methods out there, pneumatic agitation is one of the safest and most effective ones available. This method involves using compressed air, agitation whips, and rotary brushes to effectively remove all dust from your ducts.
Strong vacuums are then used to remove all contaminants from the home. During the cleaning process, the filter compartment, return, and blower wheel also receive a thorough cleaning. Once the cleaning process is complete, your professional re-seals your air ducts. It is also advisable to have a carbon monoxide test completed to ensure there aren’t any hidden issues.
Signs You Need Duct Cleaning in Your Home
We’ve determined that duct cleaning is important, but when should you have your air ducts cleaned? It’s suggested that you have your ducts cleaned at least every three to five years. However, there are some signs you should look for that indicate you need services sooner.
For starters, keep an eye on your energy bill. If you notice a sudden increase in the amount of energy you are using, that could be a sign that something is wrong with your system. Clogged air ducts could be the culprit. You may also find yourself needing to change your air filters more often or be constantly dealing with clogged vents. Sometimes, your system may even make strange noises as the debris flows through your air ducts.
In addition to these signs, homes with pets tend to need to have their air ducts cleaned more often than those without. Pet hair and dander get sucked into the HVAC system, where they can become stuck. Even worse, this pet hair could begin cycling through your home and increase the number of allergens you breathe in.
When allergens get stuck in air ducts or circulate through the home, that also means you are probably more prone to get sick more often. Allergy symptoms can also increase when air ducts are dirty. Cleaning the air ducts is a great place to start when looking for a way to address these problems.
How to get Good Duct Cleaning Services
After you’ve determined your HVAC system can benefit from duct cleaning services, it’s time to find a good company to get the job done. Always remember that experience matters when it comes to air duct cleaning. DIY methods or individuals who don’t have the proper training could wind up damaging your air ducts and your HVAC system.
You should also choose a full-service company to do the work. There are several steps involved in the air duct cleaning process, and you want a company that will complete them all while cutting no corners.
First, look for a company with state-of-the-art equipment. They should thoroughly clean all ducts and other components, re-seal your ducts when the work is done, and complete a full inspection at the end of the project.
Finally, don’t forget to check the reviews and feedback from prior customers. The company you choose should be dedicated to providing quality air duct cleaning services that are trusted throughout the community. Reading reviews and testimonials gives you proof of their workmanship and professionalism. Plus, you get to see some of the great results that air duct cleaning provides!
As you are caring for your HVAC system throughout the year, don’t forget about your air ducts. Having them cleaned can help make your home fresher and free from allergens, and it can make your HVAC system run more efficiently. But don’t forget to choose a professional team that has the right training and experience for the job.
Get the Planet Duct Experience
At Planet Duct, we offer both residential and commercial duct cleaning services. Plus, we have the equipment and experience to ensure no damage occurs to your air ducts or HVAC system. Schedule your air duct cleaning service today, and soon you’ll find yourself living in a healthier environment!
