Homeowners tend to neglect their home’s ductwork, particularly when their HVAC system is running smoothly. Over time, however, dust and dirt can build up in an A/C unit, and if it’s left for long, significant issues can develop with the ducts. A licensed HVAC technician can make a simple visual inspection to determine whether or not your home could benefit from duct cleaning.

Large deposits of dust and contaminates may contribute to allergens within the household, and though not a proven health risk, this contamination may be potentially harmful to individuals with asthma and allergies.

There are several steps a technician will take when conducting a duct cleaning:

• Inspect the system and attached ductwork to be sure there are no asbestos-containing materials.
• Protect carpet and furniture.
• Use vacuum equipment to remove buildup from ductwork and exhaust it outside.
• Seal and re-insulate access points throughout ductwork.

Many homeowners do not need duct cleaning, and instead can take a few steps to maintain clean air ducts themselves:

• Change filters regularly.
• Request cleaning of cooling coils and drain pans during regular maintenance.
• Seal all vents during renovation and construction.
• Use a high efficiency vacuum with HEPA filter to reduce airborne dust.
• Ensure all ductwork is properly sealed and leaks are repaired promptly.

Duct cleaning may not be at the top of your to-do list this spring, but a good understanding of what to look for will aid in avoiding future repairs and maintaining cleaner air.

For more professional advice on duct cleaning, contact the pros at Powers Heating & Air. We can help Fayette & Coweta County area homeowners improve their indoor air quality.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about duct cleaning and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Powers Heating & Air serves Peachtree, GA and the surrounding areas.  Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!