When dust, mold, bacteria and other contaminants accumulate in air ducts over time, these contaminants can spread throughout the home when the HVAC system circulates the air. This exposes people to airborne particles and chemicals that are associated with respiratory issues like asthma and allergies. Thus, gaining proper access to all air duct areas is essential for removing contaminants and performing a thorough cleaning.
Hard-to-Reach Areas
Duct systems have many hard-to-access locations like branch vents, main trunk lines and the air handler unit itself. Thus, so professional cleaners use specialized tools and techniques to reach them. For instance,
- Extensions and telescopic brushes help clean vents high on walls and in hard-to-reach nooks.
- Magnehelic gauges measure air resistance, identifying branch lines that need more attention.
- Air movers blow air behind registers, loosening particles for effective vacuuming.
Gaining Access
Cleaners may need to remove obstructions like:
- Cabinetry – Access panels allow cleaners to reach ducts behind cabinets or appliances.
- Flooring – Some ducts require removing baseboards or sections of flooring.
- Insulation – Insulation may cover parts of the duct system, which must be temporarily moved.
Overall, proper access involves:
- Removing and cleaning air registers
- Disconnecting and reconnecting branch duct lines
- Accessing the air handler cabinet
- Cleaning supply and return grilles.
Inspection and Cleaning
Once access has been gained, cleaners perform a full inspection checking for:
- Visible contaminants
- Areas of damage or deterioration
- Mold or biofilm growth.
They then clean all exposed duct surfaces using methods like:
- Mechanical brushing
- HEPA vacuuming
- Air mover-assisted cleaning
- Pressure washing for very dirty ducts.
In conclusion, air duct cleaners use an assortment of tools, equipment and techniques to access even the hardest to reach areas of duct systems. Gaining proper access is vital to identify any issues, thoroughly remove contaminants, and give ducts a complete cleaning.