Top Things You Should Know About Air Ducts
When making choices concerning air ducts, there are a few aspects you should know. Some of these aspects, especially those concerning cleaning or replacing these air ducts, could save you time and money. Within the following list are the top things you should know about air ducts.
Not all cleaning and repair personnel are honest, and in some cases regulations are not enforced to protect consumers from fraud. Before you deem it necessary to replace or clean your air ducts consider the items on this list first.
If a service man informs you that he/she located mold in your air ducts, require him/her to show you this mold. First of all if it is not mold he/she may overcharge you for the service. Secondly, if it is mold he/she will need to locate the origin of the mold, not simply clean it. If its origin is not found the mold will regrow in your air duct. Mold usually indicates some form of water leak within your air conditioning system, and if the leak is not repaired it could become black mold.
If insects are located within your air ducts it is a possibility that you have other pests living in there as well. Any signs of insects require inspection to remedy the problem.
The Environmental Protection Agency does not have regulations, when it comes to cleaning air ducts. When choosing a professional to clean your air ducts, you should ask around concerning the company's quality of work, before signing a contract. Check references and the Better Business Bureau when it is possible.
If there are holes anywhere within the air duct, air from that area is pulled into your living space. In short, if these holes in your air ducts are in the basement area all of the moldy air from the basement will filter into your living space.
Holes, tears, and gaps in air ducts will increase energy costs by blowing air into the area where the air duct is damaged. These repairs should be made based on the manufacturer's specifications. Do not allow anyone who is not certified in air conditioning or heating repair to replace these air ducts. However, small damages can be repaired with duct tape.
In order to save on energy costs, make sure your air ducts are insulated. As long as they are insulated, the outside temperature will not affect the temperature flowing through the air ducts. However, if you do not insulate the air ducts, it could run up your energy costs.