Heating Duct Cleaning: What You Need To Know
Why, When & How Should HVAC Ducts be Cleaned? Who Can Clean Them?
Nov 13, 2009
There are many companies advertising a ductwork cleaning service, some make great claims that such cleaning will improve the quality of air in the house, improve health of occupants and improve the functioning of the HVAC system. Some may want to use chemicals to destroy bacteria and mold.
When Should HVAC Ducts Be Cleaned?
Cleaning of the HVAC ducts in a home is not something which needs to be done frequently. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advise that ducts should be cleaned when:
- there is visible signs of mold growth,
- there is a pest infestation,
- dirt and debris is clogging the ducts or blowing out of the registers.
The Agency state that there is no evidence to support claims that duct cleaning will make the heating system work better or improve the air quality in the building. This is because the layer of dust within the ducts does not usually move but sticks to the surface.
How Heating Ducts are Cleaned
The ductwork should be cleaned by a specialist contractor with the right tools and should include all components of the HVAC system, not just the ducts. A specialist, high powered vacuum cleaner will be used for the ducting, the surfaces can be brushed but must not be cleaned with water or any liquid solution.
Prevention of Duct Contamination
There are two things home owners should do to protect ducts:
- change filters frequently and use the best filter available,
- prevent water, moisture or condensation entering the ducts.
Damp conditions are suitable for bacterial grow and mold, which may be detected by sight of smell. These problems may be destroyed by the use of a suitable biocide which must be EPA-registered biocide for this use.
Ducting is usually made from sheet metal but may be constructed from or lined with fiberglass, in which case there is no chemical biocide suitable for controlling bacteria and fungi growth on this surface. The contractor may use Ozone and the implications should be fully explored. The only permanent solution for fungi or bacterial growth in fiberglass ductwork is replacement.
Finding a Contractor to Clean Heating Ducts
A number of contractors should be invited to inspect the system and give a quotation for the work. The home owner should not be looking for the cheapest quote but for a professional, knowledgeable and ethical approach to the business.
In many US states duct cleaning contractors are required to hold a license. Ideally the company should also be a member of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) and be certified by NADCA.
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