The ductwork in your house carries millions of air particles from one room to another each day. Many of these particles are pollen, dust and pet dander; others are chemicals from paint, varnish or cleaning products, and stale odours from smoke, mildew and food. When these pollutants build up in your home, it can affect the indoor air quality. For people with allergies and breathing complications, this can be dangerous.

Duct cleaning is the process of removing these pollutants and returning clean air to your home. Duct cleaning companies use specialized tools to dislodge contaminants and vacuum them up. A thorough cleaning should take three to five hours. The resulting cleaner, sanitized ductwork can improve the indoor air quality in your home and reduce health risks.

There are a few things you should consider before having your ducts cleaned. First, check the credentials of a potential service provider. Look for a member of the National Air Saskatoon duct cleaning Association (NADCA), and read reviews on unbiased sites like HomeStars. Also, make sure the company agrees to clean all components of your HVAC system.

Many homeowners want to get their ducts cleaned for the simple reason that dirty ducts are often home to allergens like dust mites and mould. These irritants are known to trigger asthma symptoms and may also cause other respiratory problems. It is a good idea to have your ducts cleaned after vermin infestation or water damage, as well as when you see signs of mould growth.

However, there is limited scientific evidence that duct cleaning improves indoor air quality or health. Most of the positive effects on indoor air quality are due to the removal of contaminants, not the cleaning itself.

In addition to reducing contaminants, regular duct cleaning helps prevent your air filters from becoming clogged quickly. A clogged filter can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system and increase energy costs.

Some duct cleaning companies suggest using chemical biocides or sealants to sanitize or encapsulate the inside of your ductwork and other systems, and to help control mold and bacteria growth. These practices are controversial and require further study, but they may have a positive impact on indoor air quality.

It is important to discuss your health concerns with your physician before having your ducts cleaned. If you do decide to have your ducts cleaned, find a trusted, experienced professional that will do the job thoroughly and carefully. Contact the dependable team at Breathe Better Indoor Air Quality Specialist today to learn more about their Saskatoon furnace, duct and vent cleaning services.