The ventilation system is an essential part of any home, but most people rarely give it any thought. However, without regular cleaning air ducts can collect minute debris like dust and mites. They can even begin to grow mold. All of these affect indoor air quality and can be harmful to the health of human and pets. Clean ducts can also help reduce heating and cooling costs, and reduce energy consumption, which is better for the environment. Duct cleaning should always be done by professionals who have the right training and equipment for the job.
How air ventilation ducts affect indoor air quality
People are used to thinking of smog and air pollution as something they encounter out of doors. However, many studies have shown that indoor air can be even more polluted, due to a number of factors. Over time, chemical and organic pollutants like dander, dust, and chemicals from household cleaners and paints are lodged in the ductwork. When the heating or cooling system is operated, all this minute debris is circulated throughout the house. With normal usage, this could happen five to seven times daily, day after day, week after week.
Over time, this build up can begin to cause health problems for all residents of the home, both humans and pets. It can also lead to the growth of mold which can cause breathing problems, especially for asthma and allergy sufferers. Regular air duct cleaning by a professional company can help to prevent any problems. Typically, you should get your air ducts cleaned every three to five years by a professional duct cleaning service. This will also keep your heating and cooling systems running at maximum efficiency.
How duct cleaning can reduce energy costs
Build up in the ducts and ventilation system can cause health problems. It can also lead to higher electric bills, by reducing the efficiency of the heating and cooling system. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that as much as 25% to 40% of the energy consumption for home heating and cooling is just wasted. This is partly due to leaks and drafts, and partly because of the buildup in the ductwork that can reduce the efficiency of the HVAC system.
Cleaning air ducts can reduce heating and cooling costs. Reducing the home’s overall energy consumption is also a good choice for the environment. Many duct cleaning services can also clean dryer vents in the same visit, which saves both time and money. Regular cleaning of dryer vents, which lead from the dryer to the outside, is necessary for the safety of the home. Build up of dryer long inside the vents is a fire hazard.
Regular cleaning of ventilation ductwork is necessary for a number of reasons. Cleaning air ducts can improve indoor air quality, making the house safer for all residents, humans and pets alike. It can also improve the efficiency of the HVAC system, reducing electric costs and usage. This is the better choice for your wallet as well as for the environment. For safety and quality, duct cleaning should be done by trained and qualified professionals.