HVAC Vent Cleaning Is Something of an Overlooked Necessity

PRESS RELEASE

Published August 28, 2023

It's Easy To Forget HVAC Vent Cleaning, But It's Important Not To Neglect Indoor Air Quality

Delaware, United States - August 28, 2023 / Dry Patrol Of Central Ohio /

For many home and business owners, other aspects of property maintenance often demand more attention, such as repairing a roof or repainting an exterior to give it more curb appeal. However, an important component of many modern properties that often goes overlooked is the ventilation ducts that service the HVAC system, keeping residents or employees warm during the winter and cool during the summer.

Its a common misconception that ventilation ducts never need to be looked at because, unlike water pipes, they are not subject to erosion or corrosion since they only move air. And because they have no moving parts, they dont wear out the way parts of an engine might. However, while its true that ducts for HVAC systems are simple and durable, theyre not indestructible, and, over time, they need maintenance and care too.

Vents Do Degrade

The most important misconception to address is that air ducts wont get physically damaged. Its a given that because air ducts arent exposed to the elements the way a roof is or water, the way water and drainage pipes are, they wont be vulnerable to those specific types of damage.

However, air ducts canand doreceive physical damage, though this is often over a longer timeline of years, as opposed to shingles being torn off a roof after one bad storm. A common form of physical damage comes from the movement of the pipes over the years.

For example, thermal heaving from winter heating can pull seams and ductwork apart over time. This can result in leaks, which reduce efficiency, but for ducts that arent sealed with screws or use aluminum duct tape or mastic, this can lead to complete breaks in pipe-to-pipe connections.

Blockage

Another factor that can impact HVAC systems is blockage within the pipes. Blockage can occur from a build-up of dirt, dust, the breakdown of insulation, or even debris from rodents nesting in the pipes. A property with pets, especially long-haired dogs or cats that shed regularly, may also build up residue in pipes that can affect airflow and contribute to a less healthy environment for those with allergies or asthma.

How Air Duct / Vent Cleaning Improves Indoor Air Quality

Cleaning of HVAC air ducts brings several benefits. Chief among them include:

Allergen & Odor Reduction

In some cases, blockage due to dust or biological debris in air ducts may be circulating odors throughout a home or business. Cleaning air ducts ensures that HVAC systems do not create odors on the property again. Perhaps more importantly, allergen elements can be cleaned out as well. Over 60 million Americans suffer from some allergy or a response to contaminants like mold spores. Duct cleaning sanitizes these areas, making air circulation safer for everyone again or preventing sneezing, runny noses, and wheezing from dust mites that would otherwise be released when a furnace is first turned on after months of inactivity. This is especially important to address in autumn when allergy responses can spike.

Increased HVAC System Efficiency

Blockage in air ducts can cause inefficiencies in the HVAC system, resulting in furnaces or air conditioners working harder to circulate air. This, in turn, means more energy is consumed and can result in higher bills. With proper care, factors like dirty ducts and vents can prevent up to 40% of heating and cooling energy from going to waste. Cleaning can find and eliminate these blockages, so HVAC systems dont have to work as hard or as long.

Maintain Good Indoor Air Quality

Dander, dust, bacteria, mold, smoke, and other chemicals can enter a property and be recirculated through the entire area 5-7 times daily through HVAC systems. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) notes that ragweed, an allergenic plant, releases pollen in August but continues to do so throughout September and October, traveling hundreds of miles and putting residents with respiratory issues at risk where there is no ragweed present locally present. Mold can also form outdoors in the autumn, sending out spores from damp leaves and other locals. Clean air ducts significantly reduce the risk of respiratory responses and ensure that residents, employees, or customers can enjoy a safer, healthier environment without concern for their condition.

How Can Columbus, OH Area Residents Get Their Vents and Ducts Cleaned?

If you live in the Columbus, OH area and youre interested in getting your HVAC pipes assessed, maintained, and cleaned, Dry Patrol of Central Ohio is ready to help.

Dry Patrol is a NADCA-certified business with the standards, experience, and professionalism to ensure maximum HVAC safety and operation. Call (740) 417-9006, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to speak to a live representative. Or email information@drypatrol.comto let them know what you need and get a prompt response.