DATE: February 22, 2017

Keeping Clean Air Ducts

Air ducts get filthy over time. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder; shortening the life of your system, whereas a clean HVAC system uses less energy and lasts longer. 

But what is duct cleaning? Duct cleaning generally refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grilles and diffusers, heat exchangers heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans (drip pans), fan motor and fan housing, and the air handling unit housing.

How can this service affect your home? Well, having your ducts cleaned can positively impact the indoor air quality of your home. When done properly, duct cleaning can greatly improve the health and comfort of those living under your roof. But hold your horses all you DIY-ers! This isn’t something you can do independently. There are no shortcuts to a proper cleaning. It must be done thoroughly and correctly by a licensed, qualified service provider like KCC.

Although duct cleaning isn’t necessary for everyone there are factors that are red flags for needing your ducts and HVAC system cleaned. These include:

• Renovation: If your home, or a home within your neighborhood, has been remodeled – especially if there was asbestos abatement, lead paint removal, or significant dust – your ductwork may need to be cleaned. Ducts should be sealed off during home renovations, but if they weren’t, dangerous dust and debris may become lodged inside the ductwork. Particles can travel from that house across the street and clog your system as well, especially if your neighbor’s reno crew isn’t the best about cleaning up at the end of the day.
• Animals/Pests: If there’s evidence of animal or bug infestation or nesting in your ducts or HVAC system, have the animals removed then clean the ductwork and HVAC unit. Additionally, if you have pets, their hair and dander can also be released through ducts if your unit isn’t properly cleaned.
• Mold: Visible mold growth inside the ductwork, the ducts and HVAC system is a serious health risk to you and yours. If your unit isn’t properly installed, maintained and operated, the harmful spores given off by these contaminants may cause allergic reactions and/or other symptoms in your loved ones.
• Fuel Burning Units: If you have a fuel-burning furnace, stove or fireplace, it is critical that they are inspected and serviced before each heating season. Having clean ducts helps assure that any cinders or backups are cleared away; helping to prevent air contamination and possible fire hazards.

 

*It is important to note that if pest(s) or mold is present, the causes of these issues must first be addressed before having your ducts cleaned. Otherwise, the problem has a high probability of returning.

 

Now that you know the factors, you may wonder how exactly we here at KCC clean your ducts. We’re glad you asked! KCC uses compressed air to force dust and debris towards a central location along the ductwork. We then use a high capacity vacuum with a filtration system to collect and remove it from your home. If you are in need of a cleaning, or simply want us to take a look and give a recommendation, we’re more than happy to do so. Simply give us a call at 502-491-9880 or schedule a service appointment online.