I'm pretty sure we need to have our air ducts cleaned. Our seasonal allergies are getting worse and worse and we've never had them cleaned in the 7 years we've owned our home. Plus, I can see yucky stuff through the grates, and have been able to for some time. What do you know about the process, reasonable costs, reputable businesses. I know the way these businesses, like carpet cleaners, work is to get into your home with an initial low price and them upsell you to the hilt. If you happen to know of a company or contractor who is very honest and does good work, I'm open to referals, but I also just need a little education! Thanks!
I watched one of those news expose on airduct cleaning and it said it didnt really work, that it was just a gimmic.
check out this website it is the EPAs take on the subject
http://www.epa.gov/iedweb00/pubs/airduct.html
good luck!
WE used this company due to his knowledge and willingness to educate us on the issues. He told me up front he was NOT the cheapest quote but they did the work the old fashioned way and took everything apart to clean it thoroughly. David was awesome and we are so glad we went with them. We have two units so it was about $900. They do not just vaccum the vents out like the carpet cleaning companies...they are also certified to clean the units...I found them off the EPA website.
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/airduct.html
I have a great friend that runs an air duct cleaning service. He is a Christian, family man that we have known for going on 10 years. He is a non-smoker and does the work himself!
He also offers the service where he has a camera attached to the hose, or something like that, so that you can see the air duct getting clean.
His prices are about $250 or so for up to 10 vents.
His name is Rich Morin- ###-###-####. He serves all areas of DFW.
As for if cleaning your air ducts works or is worth it, you can find info supporting/opposing both sides of the issue. All I know is that when we had our air ducts clean, there was a lot of yucky stuff in there and now it is gone. I guess it would be like never dusting if you don't ever get your air ducts cleaned. To each his/her own. :)
R. B.
We own a professional carpet cleaning company, and we've done air ducts for the past 7 years. It's very controversal whether it truly improves your indoor air quality, but honestly it does. Pierson Mechanical and Brown Services are 2 a/c companies that refer me out and recommend cleaning of air ducts. My clients have reported less allergy problems and seen a reduction in dust on the furnishings. The one things the service providers will do is try to convince you that you must have it done frequently, and honestly the books say every 5 years unless you've done remodeling in the home or had major construction in your area, or some major a/c work completed. Also, the coupon ads will be bait and switch 99% of the time. They bait you with a low price to get in the door, and turn on the high pressure sales once they get there. If you would like a quote, just email me back and we can discuss it further. But whoever you choose, make sure to ask what system, does it include removing the vents, cleaning the vents, anti-mildew treatment around the edges of the air ducts (where condemsation typically forms), replacing the vents. Do they use drop clothes and vacuum behind them when they leave to protect your furnishings. Do they use employees who have back ground checks and have been drugscreened. Good luck!
