What should I look for when choosing an air duct cleaning contractor? When choosing an air duct contractor, ask if they use a skipper ball or an oscillating brush that scrubs the vents, and ask if they have flat rate pricing.
It is a trite truism that an air purification system is only as good as the Preventive Maintenance Agreement (PVA) which accompanies purchase. Manufacturers and sellers of repute offer a first year of comprehensive service without additional charge, and have affordable annual contracts for later years. A good quality air purification system should last for a decade, and some home owners look after their equipment in a manner which ensures up to 20 years of reliable service. Air purification systems can vary widely depending on house size, layout and surroundings, but the investment can even be of the order of $15 thousand. It is generally a major and relatively long-term investment, and has major effects on family effects and well being, especially in terms of asthmatic and other allergic reactions. The matter requires considerable technical expertise and long years of experience as well. The best service providers are amongst the most reliable repositories of information. Here are some useful and easy to follow tips from Sylvia Crunk, air purification expert and owner of the Aire Serv franchise for Austin, Texas.
"Watch out for skipper balls," she says. These devices with the deceptively likeable name simply rocks from side to side inside air ducts, trying to knock some dust loose. Skipper balls are simply not good enough, and what you need is a service provider who uses an oscillating brush. The latter can do a thorough job. Similarly, cleaning crews need to use powerful vacuums to get the system as clean as the interests of your family health demands. Aire Serv actually provides clients with video images of the dirt before and after cleaning operations, and let them watch the cleaning in progress as well! They also provide disinfection agents to last for 6months without additional charge. This is the kind of dedication and assurance that home owners should seek when they choose a service provider. Beware of amateurs who want to use your home as a trial ground: they quote ridiculously low fees. You may well find that they have no track record in the business! There have even been cases of carpet cleaners trying their hands at air ducts! Such unscrupulous contractors are not averse to making wild claims either, such as offering to clean duct boards which we find in older homes. The inner layer of duct board is as spongy as foam and simply cannot be cleaned.
The United States has an Air Duct Cleaners Association (ADCA), which trains and certifies service providers. ADCA recommends that home owners check the credentials and background of contractors before deciding on PVAs. It is best to ask for references. Some States require contractors to be licensed and you should check that they have the ones which apply. A related matter, on which ADCA warns consumers, is to ensure that the party with who you enter in to an agreement is the one which will actually carry out the contract. Some service providers sub-contract the work which could lead to unsatisfactory jobs at your cost! Clearly, it is better to be safe and choose a reputed service provider for the important task of keeping your air ducts ship shape!
