Battling the Invasion of Particulates

Most cleaning tasks are performed based on two criteria:

1.Schedule (such as vacuuming once per week), and

2.Visual (when you see soil build-up on surfaces).

 When it comes to your air ducts, which handle air flow in your home from your furnace and air conditioning, there is no easy way to visually inspect for soil build-up. Professional air duct cleaners, however, do have specialized equipment for inspections, and can run cameras into your ductwork.

 The best way to keep everything clean and healthy is to schedule a regular cleaning of your air ducts, to battle particulates that might build up in them. However, there are particulates that are of more concern and must be addressed immediately if discovered.

 Preventing duct contamination

 To ensure healthy air ducts, keeping dust and debris out (and mold) is vital.

 Consulting with your HVAC company on which high-efficiency air filters is smart. Don’t buy cheap air filters. The more particulates an air filter traps at the furnace and air handling system, the less gets into the ductwork and into breathable air space.

 Change your filters regularly. Set an electronic reminder on your phone or computer so you never forget. Some filters can become so clogged that particulates become airborne and contaminate breathing space.

Keep your home as clean as possible with regular vacuuming and sweeping. Obviously, if horizontal surfaces are clean, less dust and particulates are disturbed with normal household activity.

Mold and air ducts 

With warm air and humidity, there is always a chance that mold can grow, and if it grows in your air ducts, there’s really no way to know it is happening without a professional inspection.

 And in the event of a water damage situation, especially if moisture (water) intrudes into your air ducts, the risks increase that mold can be growing. Even when dried out, mold spore particulates can become airborne and cause respiratory issues.

 If someone in your household develops allergies or unexplained symptoms, it could be due to mold exposure. This doesn’t mean there is “deadly” mold in your home. It means certain individuals have a specific allergic reaction to mold. Everyone is different.

 If there is any doubt as to whether mold exists in your duct work or not, do the right thing. Call your favorite cleaning company right away. After all, it pays to call a pro!