The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) in your house all work towards achieving ideal indoor comfort and good quality indoor air. On the other hand, the heating and air conditioning ductwork wired throughout the house to feed the air can collect pollution such as dust, dirt, mold, and other things over time. People fail to realize that duct contamination can render their HVAC systems inefficient and risk their health.
Hence, the duct emerges as a critical point regarding the efficiency and longevity of HVAC systems. Here, we will address the various tips and tricks for duct cleaning:
Change Your Air Filters Regularly
It might be shocking that filters in your HVAC system are the first barrier against airborne contaminants and pollutants. You canorganize a monthly ritual of keeping up with the air filters and changing or cleaning them as the manufacturer recommends.Blocked and dirty filters relate to a reduced light flow, resulting in system inefficiency and increased dust accumulation in your duct.
Seal and Insulate Ductwork
The energy loss from the leaking ducts is just as bad, but it also causes pollution by allowing contaminants to get into and accumulate in the duct system internally. Check your ducts for any signs of leaks, gaps, and loose joints and then seal them with mastic tape or metal joint sealant.Sealing air ducts in unheated areas, such as attic and under areas, with suitable insulation, will help avoid condensation and mold growth.
Control Moisture Levels
Too much water vapor in the ducts can become an ideal mold and mildew germination habitat. Keep the indoor humidity at the recommended level (usually between 30% and 50%), with dehumidifiers being more appropriate if you live in a humid zone or plan your trip during summer. Fix any plumbing leaks or water damages where water pools or water is reentering your ducting to prevent moisture from entering.
Schedule Professional Inspections and Cleanings
The task of avoiding duct contamination is on both the particle board and the regular maintenance task. Professional inspections and cleanings are necessaryperiodically. HVAC technicians with the right skills and machinery are needed to assess the condition of air ducts properly. Their work extends further when they completely clean up all the mold and mold-like pollution in the ductwork using the proper equipment.
Consider UV Air Purification
Shortwave ultraviolet (UV) air purifiers within the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system may help eradicate the mold, bacteria and other microbes that have found their way into the network of ducts. Although ultraviolet purifiers are not enough replacement for cleaning and maintenance, they help protect against respiratory diseases and seasonal allergies.
Avoid Smoking Indoors
Tobacco smoke contains many harmful substances and debris particles that could stain the air and lodge in the ducts due to combustion. Open-air smoking is the best option because of the possibility of contaminating air through your ventilation system in case you or your family smoke.
These actions will serve as preventive measures that help keep the ducts contaminant-free and, consequently, create a healthy environment for your family. Recall that maintaining your HVAC ducts is economically viable in the long run and critical in ensuring indoor air quality and promoting respiratory health. If you feel confused about the state of your ductwork or HVAC installation, call the experts for HVAC services and guidance.