Indoor air pollution has been widely cited as a contributor to allergies and exacerbated asthma symptoms, and can also be a prime culprit behind musty odors and even more unpleasant smells within the home. For these reasons, keeping your air ducts—which can become contaminated with pollutants such as dust, pollen, and even mold over time—in tip-top shape is a must in order to maintain a healthy, comfortable home.
One measure that homeowners can take to reduce the number of polluting particles in their air ducts is to regularly clean the duct covers, sometimes referred to as grates or registers. The duct covers located on the floor, and which typically supply cooled or heated air to the home, tend to collect dirt and debris on the inside. These can often be simply lifted up or removed by loosening a few screws. The return ducts, which are commonly located on a wall or ceiling, usually require a screwdriver (and possibly a ladder, too) for removal.
Once removed, these grates can be cleaned in a solution of mild soap and warm water. Because kitchen duct covers are especially prone to collecting stubborn grime—think greasy cooking smoke—these may require a little effort. That said, be gentle with painted duct covers—harsh chemicals and rough scrubbing can remove paint, so use a sponge or soft cloth and a little extra soap to do the job. You may also want to use a soft brush to clean between the slats on your duct cover if a washcloth doesn't do the trick. Once you're satisfied with the job, rinse and dry your grates, and replace them.
While these tips can help you keep the outside of your air ducts spic-and-span, the internal components are a much bigger job. A gloved hand, a soft brush, and a vacuum can remove loose debris and dust particles, but for a thorough cleaning, you'll want to call in the professionals. Air ducts can become clogged with unimaginable amounts of dust and debris, and moreover are susceptible to mold and mildew, particularly in humid climes. Moreover, leaks and holes in the ventilation system or the ducts themselves can not only exacerbate these issues, but also allow unwelcome critters such as bugs and rodents to take up residence in your home!
Because of this, it's a good idea to have an HVAC professional inspect and clean your air ducts in order to ensure that all of its components—from filters to fans, coils to heat exchangers—are debris-free and in working order. Moreover, the thorough cleaning only a specialist can provide can save you money in the long run by preventing damage to your system owing to reduced air flow. What's more, cleaning your own air ducts stirs up dust and mold particles, which you then inevitably inhale. By leaving this job to the pros, you can safeguard your HVAC system and your lungs from ill effects.
Has it been several years since your last air duct cleaning? Did you recently renovate your home? Or have you moved into a new one? If you're in the Johnson County area, look no further than Davenport Service Company, which has faithfully provided air duct cleaning and all other HVAC services in Olathe for more than three decades.
Founded in 1980, Davenport Service Company has provided "Customer First" service in Johnson County, Kansas for over three decades. We provide 24/7 emergency service, preventive maintenance service, and seasonal tune-ups for commercial and residential heating and air conditioning systems. If you're looking for professional air duct cleaning services in Olathe, call 913-441-2222 for hassle-free scheduling today!
