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| DOES AIR DUCT CLEANING REDUCE ALLERGENS IN YOUR HOME? The best treatment of allergies and asthma is the avoidance of offending allergens. Airborne allergens in the home are one of the hardest types of allergens to avoid. Heating and air conditioning systems harbor molds, and sanitation of this system is of great interest to allergic and asthmatic patients. The theory that commercial air-duct sanitation is effective in reducing indoor allergen levels was tested. Eight residential “heat-ventilation-air conditioning” (HVAC) systems in six homes during winter (heating mode), and six HVAC systems in five homes during summer (cooling mode), were sampled to measure fungal “colony forming units” (CFUs). The sampling was done before and after HVAC sanitation. Two homes in which no duct cleaning was done served as controls in each phase of this study. The homes ranged in size from 1,500 sq. ft. up to 4,600 sq. ft., and were built of brick or brick and wood frame construction. The study took place in north Texas. Sampling was performed using culture plates of malt extract, which provide an excellent growth medium for fungal colonies, placed directly in the air stream. Eight weeks after the sanitation procedure, the study houses had a 92% decrease in CFUs during the winter, and an 84% reduction in the summer. Over the same 8-week period, there was not a reduction in CFUs in the control houses. The study indicates that air-duct cleaning by a qualified commercial firm provides relief from airborne molds. This benefit can be extended by installing a high-efficiency intake filter following an air duct cleaning. The researchers also found that CFU levels were much higher in summer than in winter. This is becuase there is higher moisture content in a cooling mode due to the evaporative coils. INDOOR AIR QUALITY The quality of the air we breath is an important environmental concern. Following are facts that have been determined by recognized authorities in the fields of heath and air quality:
DIRTY DUCT SYSTEMS ARE A MAJOR SOURCE OF Dust, dirt, pollen, animal dander and other airborne contaminants are pulled into the duct system every time the furnace or air conditioner runs. These contaminates build up inside the ductwork over time and can help make the duct system an ideal breeding ground for mold spores, bacteria, fungus, mildew and other microbes. Each time the furnace or air conditioner is turned on, contaminants are spewed out and circulated throughout your home and affect the health and comfort of your family. Family members who suffer from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory ailments as well as children and the elderly are especially vulnerable to the effects of indoor air pollutants. The removal of contaminants from the entire HVAC system is recognized by industry experts as the most effective way to eliminate air duct pollutants. This is referred to as the “source removal” method of duct cleaning. In addition to the obvious health benefits, duct cleaning can help you maintain a cleaner home. It also helps you restore HVAC system capacity and lessen running time, resulting in lower heating and cooling bills. IS THE AIR YOU BREATH IN YOUR HOME MAKING YOU SICK? Your duct system functions as the respiratory system of your home. When it becomes contaminated and congested, it should be cleaned so it can “breath” normally and efficiently. If you answer yes to any of the following questions, it may be time to have your air duct system professionally cleaned.
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