The discussion over the value of regular duct cleaning continues, but there is no proof to suggest that such cleaning is damaging, provided it is done correctly. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not advise that air ducts be cleaned routinely, but only when necessary. However, if you choose to clean your air ducts in West Palm Beach, FL, it's essential to make sure that the service provider is devoted to cleaning all components of the system and is qualified to do so. Before ducting is cleaned, modernized, or replaced, the cause or causes must be corrected, or else the problem is likely to recur.
Contaminants that enter the home through both outdoor and indoor activities, such as cooking, cleaning, smoking, or simply moving around, can cause greater exposure to contaminants than dirty air ducts. It's important to note that dirty air ducts are just one of the many possible sources of particulate matter that are present in homes. If you decide to clean your heating and cooling system, the service provider can propose the application of chemical biocides designed to remove microbiological contaminants from the inside of the ducts and 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.
These practices have not yet been thoroughly researched and you must be fully informed before deciding to allow the use of biocides or chemical treatments in your air ducts. The EPA recommends that if you have a furnace, stove, or fireplace that burns fuel, it be inspected for proper functioning and maintained before each heating season to protect it 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 family members have unusual or unexplained symptoms or illnesses that you think could be related to your home environment, you should discuss the situation with your doctor.
The EPA has published several publications as guidance on identifying potential indoor air quality problems and ways to prevent or solve them. If you think that cleaning the ducts might be a good idea for your home but you're 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 services for advice on how best to tell if your air quality has improved after having your ducts cleaned in West Palm Beach, FL.
