Are you ready for winter? Colder weather here in Illinois means you rely on your furnace and heating system more than at any other time of the year to heat your home and keep your family cozy and warm.

But many homeowners overlook the importance of cleaning and maintaining their heating and cooling system. In preparation for winter, duct and vent cleaning should be on your list of home maintenance projects. Cleaning your home’s air duct system has three main benefits:

1. Reduce energy bills
Cleaning ducts and vents helps to improve the flow of air so you can heat your home more efficiently.

2. Extend the life of your heating system

Regular maintenance ensures that your forced air system is in optimum working condition, which can help you avoid costly future repairs.

3. Improve indoor air quality

High efficiency doors and windows help to reduce energy costs but they also lower air quality by trapping pollutants inside your home. Bacteria, dust mites, and mold become clogged in ducts and vents, contributing to poor air quality that can affect your family’s health. Regular cleaning of your heating system can help you breathe fresher and healthier air.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Qualified heating contractors have the experience and equipment to clean and provide regular maintenance for ducts and vents. Debris, dust, and other particles are removed from the heating system using a high pressure hose or a specialized vacuum. Maintenance of ducts and vents also includes:

Dusting and cleaning of registers and grilles.

Inspection and cleaning of furnace fans.
Servicing and cleaning heat pump and air conditioning coils.
Sanitizing of ducts and vents. After cleaning, a disinfectant is applied to the interior of the system to eliminate bacteria, mildew, and mold.

Cost of Hiring a Professional

When it comes to duct and vent cleaning, leave the work to an experienced duct cleaning company. Get written estimates from more than one contractor that clearly outlines the labor and work included. Most companies will charge between $90 to $125 per hour based on the size of your home and the number of registers and air systems that need to be cleaned. Plan on scheduling three to five hours to complete the job.

Source: https://bit.ly/2QrXzY3