By keeping your home clean, you also help keep your indoor air free of dust, pollen and other airborne contaminants that can trigger allergy attacks, asthma and other respiratory problems. Some HVAC contractors also suggest an annual or semi-annual duct cleaning as part of your regular preventive maintenance routine. If a duct cleaning has been recommended to you, be cautious. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary, and in some cases, the recommendation could be an outright scam.
It is possible that the ductwork in your heating and cooling system can get clogged or dirty and require a professional cleaning. Reputable duct cleaners will inform you why the ductwork needs cleaned and will thoroughly explain the advantages and disadvantages of the process. They will also adhere to technical standards and professional ethics such as those put forth by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).
In some cases, unscrupulous contractors have been known to be unrealistically optimistic about the effects of duct cleaning. These claims have been used to convince homeowners to purchase duct cleaning services that were not effective or that weren't needed. In Ohio, for example, a state lawmaker has introduced legislation intended to stop dishonest contractors who sell unneeded or ineffective duct cleaning services. Industry groups such as NADCA have expressed support for the bill.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends duct cleaning under the following circumstances:
- Mold is visible within the duct system or on HVAC system components.
- Ducts are infested with rodents, insects, small animals or other creatures.
- Ducts are clogged or full of dirt and debris that is being blown back into your home’s indoor air.
Beware of contractors who make overly ambitious claims about duct cleaning or alarmingly gloomy statements about what will happen if you don't hire them to clean your ductwork. Many of these claims may not be supported by facts.
Your safest bet is to trust a business that has built up a local reputation for quality and reliable service. Hartman Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning has been serving customers in the New Haven and Fort Wayne area for almost 50 years. Contact us today for more information on duct cleaning and for professional help deciding if a duct cleaning is necessary for your home.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in New Haven, Indiana and surrounding Fort Wayne area 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.
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