The discussion around the value of regular air duct cleaning is ongoing, but there is no proof that it is detrimental, as long as it is done correctly. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not suggest that air ducts be cleaned routinely, but only when necessary. Nevertheless, if you live in Miami-Dade County, FL, there are some environmental advantages to having your air ducts cleaned. It is essential to remember that dirty air ducts are just one of the many potential sources of particulate matter that can be found in homes.
Pollutants that enter the house from both outdoor and indoor activities, such as cooking, cleaning, smoking, or simply moving around, can cause a greater exposure to pollutants than dirty air ducts. Additionally, there is no evidence that a small amount of household dust or other particles in air ducts poses any health risk. You may want to consider cleaning your air ducts simply because it seems logical that the air ducts will get dirty over time and should be cleaned from time to time. If you decide to have your air ducts cleaned, take the same consumer precautions you would normally take when evaluating the competence and reliability of the service provider.
If you decide to clean your heating and cooling system, it is important to make sure that the service provider agrees to clean all components of the system and is qualified to do so. In addition, the service provider may propose the application of chemical biocides, designed to remove microbiological contaminants, inside ducts and in other components of the system. Some service providers may also suggest applying chemical treatments (sealants or other encapsulants) to encapsulate or cover the inner surfaces of air ducts and equipment housings because they believe they will control mold growth or prevent the release of dirt particles or fibers from the ducts. The EPA recommends that if you have a furnace, stove, or fireplace that burns fuel, they be inspected for proper functioning and maintained before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.
Some research also suggests that cleaning dirty cooling coils, fans, and heat exchangers can improve the efficiency of heating and cooling systems. However, there is little evidence to indicate that simply cleaning the duct system will increase the efficiency of the system. If you think duct cleaning might be a good idea for your home but are not sure, talk to a professional. The company that services your heating and cooling system can be a good source of advice. You can also contact professional duct cleaning service providers and ask about their services. Cleaning your air ducts can help reduce pollutants in your home environment and improve indoor air quality.
It can also help reduce energy costs by improving system efficiency. However, it's important to make sure that any service provider you hire follows proper procedures and is qualified to do so.
