FAQ

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems have been shown to act as a collection source for a variety of contaminants that have the potential to affect health, such as mold, fungi, bacteria, and very small particles of dust. The removal of such contaminants from the HVAC system and home should be considered as one component in an overall plan to improve indoor air quality.

The best way to determine if the HVAC system cleaning was effective is to perform a visual inspection of the system before and after cleaning. If any dust or debris can be seen during the visual inspection, the system should not be considered cleaned. While you can perform your own visual inspection using a flash light and mirror, a professional cleaning contractor should be able to allow you better access to system components and perhaps the use of specialized inspection tools. In addition, following this post-cleaning check list can help to ensure a top quality job.

The amount of time it takes to clean a residential HVAC system depends on many variables such as the size of the home, the number of systems, the extent of the contamination and the number of HVAC cleaners performing the job. Ask at least two contractors to inspect your system and give you a time estimate for your particular system. This will give you a general idea of how long the job should take as well as an idea of how thoroughly the contractor plans to do the job.

Frequency of cleaning depends on several factors, not the least of which is the preference of the home owner. Some of the things that may lead a home owner to consider more frequent cleaning include:

• • Smokers in the household.
  • Pets that shed high amounts of hair and dander.
  • Water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system.
  • Residents with allergies or asthma who might benefit from a reduction in the amount of indoor air pollutants in the home’s HVAC system.
  • After home renovations or remodeling.
  • Prior to occupancy of a new home or a home that was previously lived in. Most of the dust in a home is skin cells and if you are not the original owner of the home you have someone else’s skin cells in your duct system.

The most effective way to clean air ducts and ventilation systems is to employ Source Removal methods of cleaning. This requires a contractor to place the system under negative pressure, through the use of a specialized, powerful vacuum. While the vacuum draws air through the system, devices are inserted into the ducts to dislodge any debris that might be stuck to interior surfaces. The debris can then travel down the ducts to the vacuum, which removes it from the system and the home.

Common signs can include visible dust or debris around vents, unusual odors when the HVAC system runs, excessive dust throughout the home, signs of contamination inside the ductwork, or reduced airflow. A professional inspection can help determine whether cleaning is appropriate for your system.

When performed properly, professional HVAC system cleaning should be controlled and contained. DUCTZ technicians use specialized equipment and procedures designed to remove contaminants from the system while helping protect the surrounding areas of your home or business.

Yes. DUCTZ of Greater Atlanta provides professional dryer vent cleaning in addition to HVAC and air duct cleaning services. Removing lint and debris from the dryer vent can help improve airflow, support dryer performance, and reduce unnecessary strain on the appliance.

Yes. DUCTZ of Greater Atlanta works with both residential and commercial properties. Commercial HVAC cleaning can be tailored to the size, layout, equipment, and needs of the facility, including offices, retail spaces, multifamily properties, and other commercial environments.