The Correct Duct Cleaning Techniques
Air duct cleaning is a misnomer…
In fact, the full HVAC system needs to be cleaned and not only the air ducts.
If you fail to clean all of the different components in the system, it can result in contamination of the system and reduction of the advantages to the duct cleaning service.
Just as you would not clean half of the kitchen or living room, you should not clean only one part of the HVAC system.
According to NADCA, you should clean the full HVAC system including the following parts:
– coils
– air ducts
– registers
– drain pan
– air plenum
– drills
– air filter
– heat exchanger
– air cleaner
– blower motor and assembly
There are two core elements to cleaning an HVAC system – breaking the contaminants loose and the collection of contaminants.
1. Breaking The Contaminants Loose
Effective cleaning of the HVAC system requires removal of the contamination sources. This source removal starts with the usage of one or more agitation devices created to loosen contaminants from the surfaces in the heating and air conditioning system. For instance, agitation devices can include air whips, brushes, and compressed air nozzles. It is also possible to achieve agitation in the system via contact vacuuming and hand-brushing.
2. Collection Of Contaminants
During the cleaning procedure, the full HVAC system is put under a continuous negative pressure to reduce the spread of contamination. This continuous negative pressure (vacuum) allows the very fine particles to be removed from the HVAC system as they start to become airborne. This will ensure the particles are not released in the living area when the system is turned on after being cleaned. The negative pressure also acts as a means of extracting loosened contaminants which are collected and eliminated from the house.
The System Access
Cleaning the HVAC system is not a complicated procedure, but each of the cases is unique. Where possible, any access to the duct interiors should be made using existing openings such as return grills, supply diffusers, service openings or duct end caps. A cleaning technician may need to cut access holes within the duct work to reach inside the different cleaning tools. Forming the service openings, along with the closure of the holes, requires professional skills and craftsmanship.
The Type Of Equipment
There is a plethora of duct cleaning equipment available to professional HVAC cleaning technicians. Portable and truck-mounted vacuum cleaners can be utilized to prevent the spread of any contaminants and ensure the system is cleaned according to NADCA standards.
The Antimicrobial Chemicals
Antimicrobial chemicals include disinfectants, deodorizers and sanitizers which can be applied in the HVAC system; thereby, addressing microbial contamination and managing odors. Of course, the only chemicals that can be used are those registered with the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
