A routine inspection of your HVAC system may reveal that your air ducts should be cleaned. If you have never had your air ducts professionally cleaned before, you may not know what to expect and how the job is performed. When searching for an air duct cleaning service, select a company that is certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).
The NADCA has standardized the process of safely cleaning air ducts. Companies that are NADCA-certified subscribe to the standards and safety recommendations of the association. The NADCA specifies the equipment and chemicals that air duct cleaning service technicians must use to safely and successfully clean duct systems.
Duct Cleaning Equipment
– Vacuums
The NADCA requires that technicians utilize a powerful vacuum designed specifically for duct cleaning. The vacuum may be mounted on a truck, or technicians may use a portable unit. Both types of equipment are approved by the association. The NADAA has concluded that both types of vacuums are effective when used properly. Professional duct cleaners may also use wet vacuums and hand-held HEPA units, as well.
– Access Devices
In order to access the inside of the ductwork, duct cleaning professionals utilize access tools, such as drills and saws. The cleaning technicians will insert imaging equipment into the duct system through access points to inspect the condition of the inside of the system. Access points may be small to accommodate hand-held mirrors or cameras, or the access points may need to be large enough to accommodate larger equipment or service personnel.
– Imaging Devices
Duct cleaning professionals use a collection of imaging devices, including still cameras, CCTV cameras and mirrors, to assess the condition of the inside of the ductwork. Some companies even use remote controlled cameras mounted on wheels to travel through and examine the system.
– Hand Tools
Direct-view periscopes, mirrors and brushes are used to assess and clean the ductwork. Many companies use pneumatic tools designed specifically for duct cleaning work.
– Chemicals and Sanitizers
In some cases, such as homes where mold is found, the technicians will use a sanitizer to remove the contaminant.
The Duct Cleaning Process
Duct cleaning professionals first assess the condition of the duct system. Ductwork inspection includes identifying cracks and leaks, as well as areas inside the ducts where debris and dust have built up. Air duct cleaners then attach the vacuum system to the ductwork to collect the debris as it is loosened and removed by the cleaning process. The technicians then use manual or power brushes to remove the debris from the inside walls of the ductwork.
Cleaning your ductwork improves the quality of your home’s air by removing harmful pollutants that dislodge from the ductwork and contaminate the air that you and your family breathe. For more information about how clean air ducts can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and create a healthier environment in your home, call Gentry Heating Inc. We provides heating and air conditioning service for businesses and homeowners in the Tryon NC area. Our company is a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, specializing in the sales and service of Carrier brand products.
