Having dirty ducts may require duct cleaning to protect your family’s health and well-being, as well as the efficient operation of your home’s HVAC system. Ductwork serves as a reservoir for airborne indoor pollutants that may be rarely seen but potentially can have a big impact on your home, your budget, and your health.
Why Opt for Duct Cleaning?
- Better indoor air quality (IAQ) – Many of the products you use indoors create indoor contaminants that land in the ductwork, decreasing indoor air quality. Most dust is caused by the fibers that make up your furniture, window coverings and clothing, as well as shed skin cells. All these particles can collect in the ductwork over time. Bugs and vermin can also live in the ducts, where they leave waste products behind.
- Improved allergy and asthma control – If anyone in your home suffers from asthma or allergy, clean ducts may alleviate their symptoms. The air you breathe, particularly in the winter, blows through the dirty ducts many times a day. Reducing the dust load through duct cleaning also removes any residual pollen, pet dander and dust mite waste — all common allergens.
- Lower energy costs – Tight and clean ducts cut the amount of time that your HVAC system has to run, reducing energy costs. Air flows more efficiently over clean, smooth duct surfaces, and if your HVAC contractor finds leaks during the inspection and cleaning process, your energy savings will be even greater once they’re sealed.
Who Should Clean the Ducts
The cleanliness and integrity of your home’s ductwork has an immediate impact on your health and energy costs. Ductwork cleaning should be done by an HVAC professional and licensed by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA). Ducts are often difficult to reach and can be damaged using household cleaning products. When an HVAC pro cleans the ducts, the team uses specialized equipment to view and extract the contaminants.
For more professional advice on dirty ducts and duct cleaning, contact Griffith Energy Services. We’ve been serving the HVAC needs of McLean, Chantilly and Oakton homeowners since 1970.
Image via Flickr by jackiebese
