Your air ducts are an important part of your HVAC system. At times, contaminates can get into your ventilation ducts and cause your home to have poor air quality; however, there are ways around this issue. In this article, we’ll discuss why you need to clean your air ducts on occasion.
Know that Every Home is Different
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), not all air duct units must be professionally cleaned often if there’s no presence of insects or vermin, such as mice or rats, in the home. Moisture inside the ducts or near the unit attracts mold, which isn’t always easy to see with the naked eye. Upon initial inspection, it’s recommended that problem areas in the unit be pointed out.
As a consumer, you may be subject to being sold unnecessary services. One, in particular, a chemical biocide application after routine cleaning is encouraged as a precaution against future growth but often isn’t necessary. If cleanings are installed and maintained by a professional, the components have no risk of becoming contaminated.
See What’s Really Happening
Often we assume all professional cleaners operate in the same fashion but seeing is believing. Instead of assuming mold is present inside your heating and cooling unit, ask to see the damage. Reputable operators have no problems showing where moisture or mold is present and what’s needed to remedy this.
Sometimes, a serviceperson may exaggerate the presence of dust or debris in or around the unit. Unless the residue clogs the ducts or it visibly blows into the air, there’s no proof that daily pollutant exposure poses an immediate risk to your health. Dirty air ducts happen with use which is why its best to clean your air ducts as often as recommended.
Get the Facts about Chemicals Used
Although personal well-being is a factor when it comes to clean air, not all homes require regular cleaning if no moisture or an infestation is present. One thing the EPA recommends is to learn how to check for mold yourself. Some substances may resemble certain types of mold, like mineral deposits or stains, but are usually harmless. However, it helps to know for sure. Before paying for additional cleaning services, you can send a sample to a microbial lab for a small fee.
Also, biocides and other chemical treatments can do more harm than good to those suffering from chronic respiratory disorders. These can also harm pregnant women, children, and pets. Before paying to have this service done as a preventative measure against harmful organisms, you may want to get a second inspection.
Contact Hammock’s AC for More Information
If you have any questions about why you need to clean your air ducts, call Hammock’s AC to speak with one of our seasoned technicians. We can inform, inspect, or repair any cooling or heating system in most cases quickly. These are just a few examples of why you need to clean your air ducts.
