Before You Spend A Dime On Duct Cleaning...

Did you know there is a national association that oversees duct-cleaning services? The National Air Duct Cleaners Association began in 1989. It is a non-profit association of companies involved with cleaning of central air systems. Part of the mission of this organization is to establish standards for the task at hand, a very important thing to have, especially in a society where the lawsuit is a way a of life.

There is a certification process required of any company before it can be associated with the NADCA. It is not overly complex, but the group does have standards. The official website (www.nadca.com) lists members and lets the consumer search for a certified company in the potential client's area. If you are considering using a duct cleaning service, you would do well to stick with a certified member of such an organization. If you develop a grievance of some kind with the cleaning company, you have greater recourse and an avenue to get your complaints heard, and you hire a company known to be held to specific standards and expectations of professionalism.

I Use An Air Cleaner, But Still Smell Smoke

For those who use Air Cleaners to help with at-home cigarette smoke, there are some issues you should be aware of:

1. Air cleaners are generally effective at removing the particles found in tobacco smoke. This is a good thing, as one of the chief concerns is deep inhalation of such particles.

2. Some Air Filtration systems release scent into the air to mask odors, but some do not. You may discover that an offending ashtray smell lingers because of the odors from the cigarette ash is not being masked by the scented air.

3. Cigarette smoke odor is not caused by the particles removed by an Air Cleaner, it is caused by gases which may not be purified with your particular make and model of air filtration system.

If you still smell smoke when using your Air Cleaner, remember that the odor is not an indication of a bad air filter! When in doubt, clean the filter or replace it, but keep in mind these additional factors when it comes to cleaning up the air after a smoker.

Central Air Cleaning and Mold

One of the major issues homeowners face is mold. Once it gets into your living spaces, it can become a serious hazard and will detract from the overall air quality in your house. If you notice mold in your grillwork, vents, or other parts of the central air system, consider having your central air system cleaned by a professional.

If you need such services, be sure to look for a company that specializes in mold inspection and decontamination. A full-service cleaning of your system should take care of any mold and bacteria issues. A company that doesn't address the mold issue is probably not worth the money. Your full-service duct cleaning is an investment in your health. It should include the following:

1. Cleaning all existing ductwork, the air handler cabinet, blower fan, and cooling coil;

2. Heat exchanger cleaning;

3. Mold inspection;

4. Mold/bacteria sanitation.

Getting this full-service treatment will insure you get a central air system perfectly capable of safely controlling your air. If your system is more than eight years old or if you are able to visually identify mold growth, the full-service clean is your best bet.

Enhance the Effects of Your Allergy Air Filter

Pollutants aren't the only irritants in the air. Many allergy sufferers buy allergy air filters knowing that with the right air purification system, they can get allergy relief and improved health thanks to the cleaner air provided. Did you know there are additional measures that can enhance the function of air purifier when it comes to allergy relief?

One important way to enhance the effects of your allergy relief air purifier is by lowering the temperature in sleeping areas to between 68 and 72 degrees. According to allergy relief experts, these temperatures promote better sleep for those who struggle with allergic reactions. For those allergic to pet dander, keep the pets out of sleeping rooms, and don't allow them to sleep in the same bed with someone with pet allergies.

Evaluating the Air in Your Home

When it comes to home air evaluation, there are different types of evaluations available on the market. One kind of inspection, often known as an "Energy Star Evaluation", rates your home on air leaks and other efficiency problems with a heating and cooling system. Another inspection is a mold evaluation. Unfortunately there may not be a large resource pool of air filtration experts in your area who can provide similar services for hire, but there is help available from people in the heating and air conditioning business. These experts can recommend home air filtration systems or accessories that can be added in a new or existing central air conditioning systems.

If you feel the air in your home needs to be filtered and you are considering replacing your old central air and heat, don't hesitate to ask your dealer about home air filter options to go with a new system. The advice they offer may surprise you.

Are My Pets to Blame For My Air Quality Issues?

Often times, the culprits for allergy symptoms can be found near the cat bowl or dog dish. Many people don't realize they have allergy problems related to pet dander. These allergy issues can lead to difficulty breathing, itchy eyes, runny noses, and many other symptoms.

Some people will assume that the cat, dog, or bird will have to go because of the allergens. Don't be hasty in such a decision. You may discover your allergies are mild, and treatable with a High-Efficiency Filtration system for your air. You can also use additional measures including keeping your pet out of sleeping areas, frequent pet baths to reduce dander, and other measures.

Pet dander can be irritating, it's true; with the right Air Cleaner, you can enjoy your pets and maintain healthy air in the home.