Selection Criteria for a Duct Cleaning Contractor 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are there any health benefits that come from cleaning your ductwork system?

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems have been shown to act as a collection source for a variety of contaminants that have the potential to affect health, such as mold, fungi, bacteria, and very small particles of dust. The removal of such contaminants from the HVAC system and home should be considered as one component in an overall plan to improve indoor air quality.

Is there less dust in the house after cleaning?

In most cases, but not all, there is a noticeable difference in dust levels after the system has been cleaned. Surfaces require dusting less frequently.

How Should A Residential HVAC Systems Be Cleaned?
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The most effective way to clean air ducts and ventilation systems is to employ Source Removal methods of cleaning. This requires a contractor to place the system under negative pressure, through the use of a specialized, powerful vacuum. While the vacuum draws air through the system, agitation devices are inserted into the ducts to dislodge any debris that might be stuck to interior surfaces. It is important that the agitation device can reach the extreme ends of your ductwork system while minimizing access cuts. The debris, once dislodged, can then travel down the ducts to the vacuum, which removes it from the system and the home.

Will HVAC System Cleaning Reduce Our Home’s Energy Bills?

Research by the U.S. EPA has demonstrated that HVAC  system cleaning may allow systems to run more efficiently by removing debris from sensitive mechanical components. Clean, efficient systems are less likely to break down, have a longer life span, and generally operate more effectively than dirty systems.

Can Antimicrobial Treatments Have a Lasting Effect?

Certain antimicrobials have a residual capacity to resist microbial growth over several years. According to label instructions applications require the metal surfaces to be free of all residual debris. HVAC / ductwork systems are prone to debris accumulation and microbial growth over time. These EPA registered antimicrobials provide homeowners with additional assurance for a healthy home. (More on EPA Registered Antimicrobials)

What Criteria Should I Use In Selecting A Duct Cleaning Company?

Use the following pre-qualifications:


Make sure the company is a member in good standing of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).


See if the company has been in business long enough to have adequate experience.


Inquire whether the company is in good standing with your local Better Business Bureau.


Get proof that the company is properly licensed and adequately insured.


Verify that the company is certified by NADCA to perform HVAC system cleaning.


Make sure that the company is going to clean and visually inspect all of the air ducts and related system components.


Avoid advertisements for "$99 whole house specials" and other sales gimmicks.


Ask if the company has the right equipment to effectively perform cleaning, and if the company has done work in homes similar to yours. Get references from neighbors if possible.

 

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