Some Things You Don't Want in Your Ducts

Even though Alberta has one of the best climates in Canada, the combination of heat from summers and moisture from rain and snow still make the province a hotbed for harmful microbes and bacteria indoors. These things usually accumulate in the ducts and vents of HVAC systems, which is why various cleaning companies regard duct cleaning as one of their primary services. These microbes and bacteria vary in terms of the damage they can cause and the means by which they disperse throughout the household.

For example, airborne fungi like Cladosporium and Micromonospora faeni rely on the inflows of air ducts so that they can spread, causing a variety of respiratory ailments and allergic reactions to people. On the other hand, pollutants like tobacco smoke don’t need to use the duct network to disperse, although this makes their travel a lot easier. Pollutants can cause respiratory ailments and allergies as well, although they can cause other diseases like dyspnea.

Meanwhile, some household items leave behind particulates in the vents which are not necessarily harmful, although they can still cause complications in some people. Scents, hair sprays, dry-cleaning formulas, glues, liquid adhesives, and the like are known to cause nausea and vomiting in people with weak immune systems. Since they tend to linger just like biological and chemical pollutants, household particulates can only be removed with a thorough duct cleaning work.

Clean Ducts Improve System Efficiency

Dust and other particles that build up inside air ducts can affect the performance of the heating system. Newly constructed homes, recent renovations or remodelling projects, and poorly installed ducts are among the major causes of dust and debris buildup inside air ducts. This is because there are more particles floating around that gets sucked through the return duct and stays within the system.

Another good reason to clean the ducts is when leaks or flood and water has penetrated the duct system. Moisture promote moulds, and mould growth inside homes pose health risks, especially to those who are allergic to the fungi.

While there have been no conclusive evidence to support that health problems can be eliminated by having clean ducts, it is still recommended to have duct cleaning from time to time. Having the system cleaned of dust and other particles can improve the system's performance, allowing homeowners to save on energy costs.

Excessive buildup of dust and debris can clog the duct system and blocking air flow into an area in the house. If the air ducts are also blowing out particles, then it's a sign that the system has to be cleaned. Reputable companies should also be hired to clean the ducts to ensure a thorough job.