Are you considering cleaning or replacing your air ducts but worried you might make a mistake? You’re not alone!
Unfortunately, homeowners make all sorts of common errors when having air ducts cleaned or replaced. Fortunately for you, we’ve done the homework and can share an insider’s view of air duct cleaning errors and how to avoid them.
So read on and make sure you don’t make these all-too-common mistakes!
1. Neglecting Regular Maintenance
Neglecting regular maintenance of air ducts is one of the most common air duct cleaning errors. Regularly scheduled maintenance keeps the air circulating in the home clean and free from pollutants. It also keeps the system running efficiently.
To avoid this mistake, homeowners should have the system professionally inspected annually and call for maintenance whenever dirty or clogged air filters are identified.
Additionally, a regular air duct cleaning routine through dusting and vacuuming will help reduce the build-up in the air ducts. This build-up can be a source of irritant to family members of all ages.
Taking some simple steps and getting into a regular maintenance schedule will improve the way the air ducts function and the air quality in the home.
2. Lack of Proper Equipment
Lack of proper equipment is a common air duct cleaning error. Perhaps the most important piece of equipment is a high-powered vacuum. Without a high-powered vacuum, dirt, dust, and debris can become stuck inside the ducts.
This can ultimately worsen air quality. Additionally, brushes and agitators need to be attached to the vacuum to help loosen the buildup of dirt and debris. Not having the right-sized brushes and agitators can lead to inefficiency and a lack of cleanliness. Moreover, to protect against further contamination, sealants are essential to sealing the ductwork after a cleaning session is complete.
A good sealant also needs to be safe and non-toxic. They must also be compatible with the existing duct materials, such as metal or fiber ducts. Investment in the right vacuum, brushes, agitators, sealants, and other duct cleaning supplies can help you exercise caution and prevent common air duct cleaning errors.
3. Inadequate Inspection
Inadequate inspection is a common air duct cleaning error that can be avoided with careful assessment. To avoid this error, the air duct cleaning professional should inspect the entire system before cleaning. They should look for visible signs of:
- blockages
- dirt and grime
- any discrepancies in the system
They should also conduct a thorough inspection of all parts of the system. This is to identify any potential issues that could impact airflow quality.
A thorough inspection should also include testing to ensure that all air inlets and outlets are working correctly and that the pressure is being maintained properly. Properly inspecting the air duct system before any work begins is an essential part of ensuring the highest level of your home’s air quality.
4. Ignoring Mold and Mildew
One of the most commonly overlooked errors when cleaning out air ducts is ignoring mold and mildew. Mold and mildew can easily accumulate in ducts. If left unchecked, they can cause severe health problems such:
- as allergies
- respiratory illnesses
- even digestive issues
To avoid mold and mildew buildup in air ducts, homeowners should inspect their ducts regularly. They must keep the humidity in the home below 40 percent, have the air ducts serviced regularly and use an antimicrobial product that is designed specifically for use in air ducts to stop and reduce mold growth.
They must also use a high-efficiency air filter that removes particles such as mold particles from the air. If mold and mildew do become present, homeowners should call a professional air duct cleaner as soon as possible to address the issue.
5. Improper Cleaning Techniques
Improper cleaning techniques are one of the most common air duct cleaning errors that should be avoided. Poorly trained technicians may use a poor cleaning method. This can result in inadequate cleaning or significant damage to the air ducts.
Vacuum-based systems should not be used, as they are not effective in removing all debris and can cause disruption inside the duct system. Additionally, rotary brush systems can damage delicate ductwork, particularly flexible ducts. To avoid damage, use a soft brush or a mild chemical solution and brush.
Additionally, all ducts must be properly and completely sealed and pressure tested after cleaning to ensure the air tightness of the duct system. Proper equipment and techniques should be used when cleaning air ducts to avoid the most common errors.
6. Overlooking Ventilation
Ventilation is an essential aspect of air ducts. It ensures that there is strong airflow throughout the system. Proper airflow helps reduce the amount of dust and contaminants that are able to settle in the ducts.
If ventilation is overlooked during a cleaning, dirt and debris can begin to build up and cause clogs. This results in low air flow levels and an increase in dust and pollutants in the air.
To avoid this problem, it is essential to make sure that all ventilation points are checked during the air duct cleaning process. It is also important to check that ventilation systems are correctly installed and maintained in order to ensure proper airflow and reduce the risk of clogs.
7. DIY Dangers
When it comes to DIY air duct cleaning, people often run into errors and unsafe conditions. Without the proper understanding of how air ducts and related equipment function, getting the job done properly can be very difficult and even dangerous for those who are inexperienced
To avoid these errors, always make sure that your ducts are properly disconnected from your HVAC system and that you are using the right tools and solutions. It is also important to replace filters regularly or when it is indicated by your HVAC system.
If you are unable to complete a job properly, leave the job to a certified air duct professional.
Avoid These Air Duct Cleaning Errors
Air ducts should not be taken lightly! Cleaning air ducts can be tedious and uncomfortable, but it is important to make sure it is done properly.
Taking precautionary measures to avoid common air duct cleaning errors is key to maintaining and running the ventilation system. If you need help, contact a professional air duct cleaner for a thorough and safe job.
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