A Quick Course on Air Duct Cleaning
A traditional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system has a central unit for heating and air conditioning. The air is taken to the various parts of the house through a system of ducts and vents. These ducts are essential for the central air conditioning system to work. Because ductwork is such an important part of the system, it is vital that air duct cleaning be part of the regular maintenance routine.
When Ducts are saying, “Clean Me!”
While it is easy to ignore air conditioning when it is working properly, it is hard to avoid the signs of a problem. Whether mold, mildew, or pests in the ducts, smells and noises are difficult to miss. A high power bill is even more obvious. This may indicate that the system is pulling too much energy due to clogged and dirty ducts. Maybe the AC isn’t cooling as well as it should, or the airflow seems reduced. Here is a list of signs that show a need to clean a home’s air ducts:
- Damp, musty smells
- Foul odors
- Weak airflow
- High energy costs
- Poor indoor air quality
Importance of Duct Cleaning
Professional air duct cleaning is not just about removing pests or making life more comfortable, although these aspects are included. Clean ducts have many benefits and are important to indoor air quality and respiratory health. A clean system is also a more efficient system, saving energy and cooling costs. The benefits of duct cleaning are as follows:
- Improves IAQ: IAQ, or indoor air quality, measures the number of pollutants in the air inside a home. Poor IAQ can lead to problems for healthy people, not to mention those with chronic lung conditions such as COPD, asthma, and emphysema.
- Allergy Relief: Cleaning the air ducts is great for reducing allergens and improving the quality of life for those with seasonal allergies.
- Energy Savings: Clean air ducts allow for better airflow and less electricity use, saving money on energy bills.
Duct Cleaning and Preventative Maintenance
Once a homeowner invests in professional cleaning, they may be curious as to whether or not there are ways to maintain their air ducts to prevent further contamination. While nothing can eliminate the need for regular cleanouts, there are ways to increase the length of time between cleanings.
One of the main ways to do this is to maintain a clean air filter. Air filters in most HVAC systems must be changed or cleaned at least every three months. If the air filter is clean, dust and particulate matter are less likely to enter the ducts.
Regular maintenance by a professional and ensuring the ducts are well sealed will also help prevent a build-up. Another way to help keep the air ducts clean is to keep the home clean and dusted. This prevents the flow of dust and debris into the intake vent and the distribution of it throughout the system.
About John Henry's Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning
The award-winning John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning have been serving the home comfort needs of Lincoln, NE, and the surrounding areas for more than 20 years. This family-owned and operated business provide flat-rate pricing, on-time arrival, and honest recommendations. Call them today for duct cleaning services in Lincoln, NE.
