HVAC systems are the lungs of a home. HVAC systems take air in and breathe it out throughout the home. If the ducts of your HVAC system are dirty, the indoor air quality of the home is compromised. On average, contaminants are pulled into the system and recirculated up to seven times a day. Typical contaminants that may be lingering in ductwork include mold spores, dust, dander, vermin and other airborne contaminants. These harboring contaminants can cause health problems for those with environmental allergies, autoimmune disorders, respiratory health conditions or even healthy individuals. A winter air duct cleaning is an important component in improving indoor air quality during the colder months.

How is Air Duct Cleaning Done?

There are several types of equipment and tools used by professionals to clean the duct system. Some companies use portable vacuums, and others use truck-mounted equipment. Both types of equipment can get the job done well. Access tools are used to help facilitate cleaning and inspection. Typically, access points range from small holes to larger entry panels for bulky equipment. Visual inspection tools are used to evaluate the amount of contamination in the system and to assist with the cleaning process. Common visual inspection tools include cameras, direct-view periscopes and hand-held mirrors.

In order to loosen accumulated debris in the ductwork, technicians use both pneumatic devices like air whips and air skippers and hand-cleaning brushes. These devices help drive the agitated debris to the collection device. Vacuum collection devices help control the spread of collected debris during the cleaning process. Often compressed air sources are used to provide a large amount of pressure required for the cleaning. Most duct-cleaning  technicians use HEPA vacuums, and wet vacuums are used to extract water.

Other components cleaned during a duct cleaning include:

  • Supply registers
  • Return air grilles
  • Supply air plenum
  • Return air plenum
  • Heat exchanger
  • Blower motor, housing and assembly
  • Evaporator coil, drain and pan

Additional Options with Air Duct Cleaning

Some duct-cleaning providers offer an application of a chemical biocide to kill fungi and bacteria and to prevent future microbial growth. Others may offer ozone treatments to destroy biological contaminants. Currently, there are some products that are registered by the EPA for use as sanitizers on the interior of bare sheet metal ducts. There are no registered products by the EPA for use on fiber glass lined ducts or fiber glass duct board.

Other options with duct cleaning include duct sealing. With duct sealing, a sealant is injected into the ducts, and small aerosol particles seal up any openings in the duct system. Many companies offer a computer-generated analysis summarizing the before and after leakage amounts for verification of leakage reduction.

Benefits of Winter Air Duct Cleaning

In addition to improving indoor winter air quality, duct cleaning can help you save energy, save money and extend the lifespan of an HVAC system. According to the EPA, even a small build-up of debris in a duct system can result in a decrease of energy efficiency up to 20 percent. A clean conveyance system increases system efficiency and helps to reduce heating costs. Dirt build-up is also the common cause of cracks in the heat exchanger. By having a comprehensive duct cleaning done, you can avoid the premature aging of your HVAC system.

HVAC Products and Services at Gentry Heating

At Gentry Heating in Tryon, NC, we offer a wide array of services and air quality products to keep you breathing easy. Our trained and certified technicians perform environmentally-conscious duct cleaning and duct sealing for both residents and businesses. All of our products are biodegradable and contain environmentally-safe ingredients. In addition to duct cleaning, we offer germicidal fog sanitizing. We’ll even do an air quality test for your peace of mind. To complement our duct-cleaning services, we offer air quality products like humidifiers, air purifiers, energy-recovery ventilators and UV lamps. For savings, customers can take advantage of our Internet coupons for discounts on air quality products. Be sure to turn to the experts at Gentry Heating if you’re seeking to improve the indoor air quality of your home or business.

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