The air quality in your home could be worse than the air outdoors if you don’t take the necessary measures to keep your dryer vents and air ducts clean. Potential pathogens and allergens in your ductwork not only contribute to poor indoor air quality but can also spark up allergies and respiratory problems in individuals in your household who are more vulnerable. It is important to clean your HVAC system and dryer vents frequently to improve the indoor air quality of your home and reduce allergic reactions from the air you breathe. In this article, we will be sharing with you some facts you need to know about air duct and dryer vent cleaning.
Facts About Air Duct Cleaning
- Accumulation of contaminants
Air ducts are essential components of your HVAC system that circulate conditioned air throughout your home while maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. However, the ducts can become breeding grounds for pet dander, dust, pollen, mold spores, and other contaminants that recirculate in the living spaces when the HVAC system is turned on.
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Failure to clean the air ducts over time causes allergies and respiratory problems in people living in the household.
- Energy efficiency concerns
Clogged and dirty air ducts restrict airflow, making your HVAC system work harder than it should to maintain the desired temperatures throughout your home. This level of inefficiency increases energy consumption which translates to high monthly energy bills. Cleaning your air ducts frees the system from dirt and other debris making it run efficiently and saving energy in the process.
- Professional cleaning process
A certified HVAC technician cleans your air ducts thoroughly with the help of specialized tools and equipment. The process involves agitation, extraction, and sanitization which helps to remove accumulated debris and disinfect the entire ductwork. According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), it is important to clean your air ducts after every 3 to 5 years. However, you can clean as often as required based on the amount of dust or pet dander that accumulates in your household every day.
- HVAC Lifespan and Repair costs
Cleaning your air ducts is considered part of regular maintenance that helps to extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. Clogged and dirty air ducts can put a lot of strain on your HVAC system which reduces its lifespan. You may also spend a lot of money repairing a few components of the system until it eventually needs a replacement.
Facts About Dryer Vent Cleaning
- Lint accumulation can create a fire hazard
The cloth drying process inside the dryer releases tiny fibers and lint particles that might escape the lint trap and accumulate inside the dryer vent. The buildup of lint inside the dryer vents can cause an obstruction that restricts the airflow and increases the risk of lint fires. Accumulated lint is highly flammable and can ignite a fire when the dryer overheats as a result of restricted airflow. Cleaning the dryer vent regularly minimizes the risk of potential fires caused by lint accumulation.
- A clogged dryer vent reduces the efficiency
A dryer vent that is dirty or clogged with debris reduces the efficiency of the dryer because it restricts the airflow. This means that the dryer has to work harder than it should to extract moisture from the clothes. This can lead to increased energy consumption and longer drying times. A clean dryer vent allows hot air from the dryer to flow freely through the duct and out of the house. This removes moisture from the clothes quickly and efficiently leading to shorter dryer times.
- Cleaning process and frequency
Professional dryer vent cleaners use specialized tools like brushes and high-powered vacuums to remove the lint and debris that accumulates inside the dryer vents. They can also inspect and detect any potential issues that may occur in the vent system. How frequently you clean your dryer depends on the type and how often you use it.
- Regular cleaning increases your dryer’s lifespan
Cleaning your dryer vents regularly extends the lifespan of the heating element in your dryer, which is responsible for heating the air that dries your clothes. Any lint that builds up on the heating element not only reduces the efficiency of your dryer but also shortens its lifespan. It also prevents fire hazards that can cause significant damage and force you to replace your dryer.
Regular air duct and dryer vent cleaning is essential for maintaining a healthy indoor environment, improving energy efficiency, and preventing potential hazards. Understanding the significance of cleaning your ventilation systems allows homeowners to ensure their dryers operate safely and HVAC systems function optimally. It is essential to hire a professional as they have the necessary equipment and expertise to clean, inspect and safeguard your health and property.
