Duct Cleaning: Choosing the Right Contractor for the Job

Duct cleaning is one of several options to improve household air quality. It’s not called for in all cases, but under the right circumstances, it can eliminate airborne irritants and contaminants and even increase energy efficiency. As with most air quality issues, prevention is the best option of all. Regular system filter changes can delay or prevent the need for duct cleaning.

Here are some questions to ask when considering a professional cleaning procedure:

• Is mold visually confirmed growing inside the ducts?
• Have the ducts ever been exposed to water infiltration due to leaks or excessive condensation?
• Have insects or other vermin have invaded the ductwork?
• Is dust, dirt or other debris observed emitting from vents when the system is running?

A typical procedure begins with accessing all spans of the ductwork. While inspection plates are utilized, in other areas components such as elbows or diffusers will be removed to gain access. In some cases, small access holes may be cut, then professionally sealed after the procedure. Because dust build-up usually adheres to interior surfaces of ducts, agitation with high-pressure air nozzles or soft-bristled electric brushes is required to break loose the accumulated material. Following agitation, the system is placed under negative pressure using a specialized vacuum to extract all material from the ductwork without contaminating the interior of the home.

The right duct cleaning contractor is usually an experienced, established HVAC contractor with a track record of competence in the community. Most qualified outfits are members of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), the industry trade organization that standardizes cleaning procedures and policies. Ask for local references from any company offering the service and check with the Better Business Bureau for a record of complaints. Finally, get a firm estimate with the procedure detailed and the cost in writing. Sobieski Services is your trusted local source for the maintenance of healthy indoor air quality, including professional duct cleaning when the conditions warrant.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC & plumbing systems).

Image Credit: TooMuchDew