What Is Air Duct Cleaning and Why Is It Necessary?

If you are a homeowner, chances are you have had to schedule air duct cleaning at least once. But did you know that you should have your ducts cleaned every one to three years depending on your home and other factors?

But what exactly is air duct cleaning and what does it involve? Is it really necessary? In the following article, we will answer these questions. For the best duct cleaning service, contact your local vent cleaning company for a free quote.

What is Air Duct Cleaning?

Duct cleaning involves detailed cleaning of all the components of the forced air system in your home. The forced air, or HVAC, the system is the network that involves the heating and cooling systems in your home.

Your duct system is made of the following components, all of which are cleaned and inspected during professional air duct cleaning.

• Cooling and heating coils
• Heat exchangers
• Grills & diffusers
• Supply & Return Air Ducts & Registers
• Fan and air handling housing
• Fan motor
• Drain pans

Is it really necessary to hire a professional duct cleaning service?

While it is possible to clean your ductwork yourself, it is best to hire a professional vent cleaning service. They are trained not only to clean the system in its entirety, but also to inspect it to ensure that all of the components are working properly. In addition, they will make necessary minor repairs.

What does air duct cleaning involve?

A professional cleaning team possesses the knowledge and required equipment needed to properly clean the ductwork in any home. But what exactly do they do?

First, they will inspect the surfaces of the air ducts as well as the integrity of the rest of the elements of your HVAC system. As well, they will check the electrical components. If they find any minor repairs, they will fix them in most cases. Any extensive repairs will need to be performed by a trained HVAC technician. Next, they will use state-of-the-art equipment to clean the ductwork in its entirety. This will remove any dust, dirt, mold, allergens, or other debris that is trapped in your ductwork.

Depending on the size of your house, professional duct cleaning can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. This of course may vary by the configuration of the ductwork and the amount of cleaning and/or minor repairs that are necessary.

Why do I even need to have my air ducts cleaned?

1. Air duct cleaning improves the air quality in your home. It will remove any pollen, dust, viruses, mold, mildew, and any other allergens or debris that is trapped in your air ducts. Any impurities can interfere with the air quality which can cause issues for those with certain health concerns such as asthma, autoimmune disorders, or COPD.
2. Having your air ducts clean can save you money.  Your HVAC system, if clogged, will work twice as hard to circulate air. This can cause your energy costs to skyrocket. In addition, it causes excess wear and tears on the HVAC unit, which can shorten its lifespan and result in costly repairs or even replacement.
3. HVAC vent cleaning can help prevent mold, mildew, and other infestations in your home. Dirty ductwork can lead to mold growth which in turn attracts insects and rodents. All of these can lead to health issues in addition to being a general nuisance.
4. Cleaning your air ducts can help rid your home of unpleasant odors. This not only includes mildew and mold but other smells that linger in your home including tobacco and pet dander. Your family will be able to breathe easier knowing that your clean air is being distributed to every room in your household.

How often is air duct cleaning needed?

As a general rule, you should have your air ducts professionally cleaned every two to three years. However, if you are a pet owner, have recently had construction on your home or if you or anyone in your household smokes or suffers from allergies, you should have your ducts cleaned every year

When it’s time to schedule air duct cleaning, contact the expert staff at Comfort Clean. We will give you a free estimate and the most throughout and professional duct cleaning service around.