DIRTY DUCTS? PROFESSIONAL HVAC SERVICES CAN HELP

Should you clean your HVAC system's ducts? More specifically, should you clean your ducts yourself? If you're considering a do-it-yourself duct cleaning, take a look at the questions you need to know about this service and why you should call a professional first.

Is Duct Cleaning Necessary?

Clean air is important to you. But that doesn't necessarily mean you need to constantly clean your home's air ducts. Even though the ducts help your home's heater or central air conditioner to move air around the indoor space, a traditional cleaning process with a high-powered vacuum isn't recommended for every home. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't clean your ducts.

Before you schedule a duct cleaning service, consider:

• The type of cleaning. A high-powered vacuum on its own may not remove smaller-sized particles from your ducts. Discuss other cleaning options with the HVAC company if you want to purify the air or reduce the number of microorganisms in your home.
• The dirt in your ducts. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a duct cleaning service can help if your HVAC system has excessive amounts of dust or debris. It may also help your home if you can see debris particles coming from vents.
• Sanitization. Cleaning removes dirt and other impurities, while sanitizing lowers the number of germs on a surface. A vacuum won't sanitize your ducts. If you want to sanitize your system, discuss the options with the HVAC duct cleaning or services contractor.

If you do decide to clear the air with a duct cleaning, the next step is to decide who will perform the service. While a DIY approach may seem like a cost-savings idea, it isn't the best option for most homeowners.

Why Shouldn't You Attempt a DIY Duct Cleaning?

You have a vacuum and a hose. Does this mean you can remove dust, debris, and other particles from your ducts yourself? Again, a vacuum isn't always the best method to remove smaller-sized particles from your HVAC system — and it won't sanitize your ducts.

Even though a DIY vacuum duct debris removal is free (or almost free, depending on what equipment you already have at home), you should hire a professional for any air cleaning service. The top reasons to work with an HVAC contractor include:

• Safety. If you're not sure how to clean your ducts, you could spread debris or potentially harmful microorganisms around your home. Along with these risks, crawling into ducts or using sharp tools to pry apart vents also poses safety issues.
• Damage potential. Your safety isn't the only potential problem a DIY duct cleaning can cause. You could damage your home's ducts, vents, or HVAC system. This could cost you in pricey repairs or replacements.
• Equipment. The vacuum you use to clean your carpets is ideal for flooring. But it isn't the right tool for your HVAC system — especially if you want to clear the air and sanitize your ducts. A professional HVAC contractor has the equipment necessary to do this job the right way.
• Experience. An online tutorial or YouTube video won't give you the expertise necessary to effectively purify your home's indoor air. An HVAC contractor has the knowledge and years of experience to safely and efficiently keep your home's air clean and clear.

What happens if you tried a DIY duct cleaning — and it didn't work out well? You can still call in a professional. An HVAC contractor can assess the indoor air and help you to decide what services your home needs.

Do you need an HVAC repair or a professional air sanitation service? Contact Dick Kearsley Service Center for more information.