by Ron West for Universal Heating & Air, 2/01/08

Homes, just like cars, have regular maintenance needs. When most homeowners think of home maintenance the typical lawn mowing and occasional paint jobs are what comes to mind. One of the most important and most neglected aspects of home maintenance affects a family’s health as well as their energy consumption.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reported indoor air pollution exceeding outdoor air pollution by two hundred to five hundred percent. Dirty heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and air ducts are likely the root cause of poor indoor air quality.

Air ducts are dark, warm places that produce humidity. This specific environment is a breeding ground for hazardous contaminants like mold spores, fungi and bacteria. In addition to these unhealthy contaminants, pollen, dust mites and animal dander, three of the leading causes of allergies, also reside within air ducts. All of these unhealthy pollutants are just waiting to be blown out into a home every time the system is activated.

Not only do these harmful pollutants cause a variety of health problems, especially for children and the elderly, but they also cause an HVAC system to run less efficiently because the air paths are obstructed. The removal of this debris can improve air-flow by up to twenty percent, which causes a system to run less and saves energy.
An HVAC system in existing homes should be cleaned every three to five years. For newly constructed homes, the cleaning should take place immediately after moving in and then the home should be put on a regular maintenance program.

A thorough cleaning begins and ends with a video inspection of the air ducts to ensure that the contaminants have been completely removed and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the cleaning.

The air ducts are cleaned by a combination of a strong compressor to dislodge the debris from each duct, and a powerful vacuum to suck the debris out of the system. The combination of these tools enable technicians to reach deep within a systems ducts and thoroughly remove all debris with minimal noise and disruption.

There are many companies offering air duct cleaning at a variety of prices. Like most services, with air duct cleaning you get what you pay for. Although one company may be willing to clean a system for less, they probably don’t have a vacuum as powerful and affective as another company that may charge more. When it comes to a family’s health, it’s recommended to spare no expense.

Additional aspects of the HVAC system that need regular maintenance are the filters and coils. Regular dusting and vacuuming can also help reduce the amount of pollutants lingering within a home. It is also recommended to have dryer vents regularly cleaned.

To give your air ducts a thorough cleaning you can contact Universal Heating & Air at (770) 908-8488 or visit their website www.universalservices1.com. They also specialize in all aspects of HVAC systems including repair and installation.