Homeowners are routinely faced with many routine expenses related to maintenance. Appliances break, the plumbing needs fixing, or the roof leaks. Today, many owners are routinely bombarded with advertising from companies specializing in duct cleaning. Ducts are components of forced heating and cooling systems. They are connected to heat registers, grills, drip pans, air fans, and other forced air paraphernalia.
Since they are inside the house, why would they need professional cleaners? For some people, the simple reason is indoor air pollution. Every home is different, of course, and indoor pollution varies considerably. Sometimes an entire family experiences symptoms that ultimately are connected to problems with inside air. Most of the time, however, the dust and dirt within the duct system stays put, and most indoor air pollution is the result of cooking, household chemicals or smoking.
There are time, however, when the system absolutely should be cleaned. If there is visible mold on any component, or an obvious infestation of rodents or insects such as cockroaches or other vermin, of if the ducts are simply old and clogged with detritus, then they need the help of a professional cleaner. Some units may have been improperly installed or maintained, and become contaminated by common pollutants such as dust and pollen.
Even when problems are not obvious or visible, many people simply are more comfortable knowing the system is free of any contamination. The Environmental Protection Agency does not recommend yearly routine cleaning, but it does suggest that a home with a fuel-burning method of winter heating be inspected each season as a way to ward off potential problems with carbon monoxide poisoning.
If a homeowner does decide to go ahead with a full comprehensive cleanup, it will involve all heating and cooling components. There are statistics showing how clean ducts can allow more efficient air movement, thus saving a substantial amount on the heating bill. A cleanup may extend the life of a system, and in addition to improving indoor air quality, can eliminate that musty furnace smell that plagues some homes.
There are some factors a homeowner should take special note of before making a decision. Some services will recommend applying a chemical biocide as part of routine maintenance in order to kill mold. There is substantial controversy surrounding the use of such chemicals, because they may encourage breathing problems rather than reduce them. In some cases, there have been severe reactions to these chemicals, and a service should be able to clearly show visible evidence that they are really needed.
Another debatable issue is the use of chemical system sealants. Manufacturers claim that they will prevent the dust particles and other contaminants inside the system from escaping into the home, but very little is actually known about their potential toxic effects. The chemicals are sprayed into the system, and are supposed to coat the interior. Some question whether they actually reduce the fire retardant characteristics of certain types of duct lining.
Ultimately, the choice is up to the individual homeowner. If there is a known issue with serious potential such as mold-encouraging moisture, or obvious blockages, then having the system cleaned makes good sense. Duct cleaning may allow the air to move more efficiently, thus saving money. If you are not sure which choice to make, talk to a professional not associated with the cleaners, and get complete and forthright answers before proceeding.
Author Resource:-
Leading provider of heating oil ajax, heating oil oshawa and heating oil toronto units. With over 60 years of experience, Laird and Son provides their customers with exceptional service to ensure you are satisfied with your home air quality.
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