Posts Tagged ‘duct inspection’

If it Quacks like an Air Duct…

Wednesday, June 24th, 2009

QwikBids Investigates

We don’t think of our air ducts often, and it’s probably because they are one of the unseen parts of the home. Similarly, we don’t think of regular cleaning of them, either. It doesn’t cross our minds often, or not at all. But if you have allergies like I do, have pets in the home, or smoke in the house, it’s probably a great idea to consider it (no, I don’t smoke in the house!).

Checking out the industry of air duct cleaning through a provider registered with Qwikbids shed more light on the importance. Once again, I found myself learning what most of us have never given much thought about. The first thing I wanted to know was how much and what type of stuff was really in the ducts. I also wanted to know how often it should be done and how much I would be spending.

Pre-inspection is where it all starts. The items needing attention as well as cost is provided before the work is agreed to (there may be a small consultation fee that is sometimes credited toward the overall cost should you decide to have the work completed). If the service is necessary and you agree to have it done, in comes the equipment. A powerful vacuum with industry tools are brought in to remove the build-up on the inside surfaces of the ducts. The return air grills and registers are thoroughly cleaned then put back together. I was told there are usually dust, pet dander, pollen and dirt that need to be removed, and the amount of such depended upon how long it had been between cleanings. I was ready to place a bid request on QwikBids for the best price.

As usual, there are the businesses out there to beware of. According to the EPA, there is no substantial evidence to suggest cleaning your air ducts will make you healthier or prevent health issues. So if a duct cleaner claims this, move on (it’s yet another reason to get a provider through QwikBids; they come recommended already!). Standards in the industry say the ducts should be inspected about every 2 years and cleaned every 5-7 years. The cost (usually) is between $450.00 and $1,000.00 and is generally based upon size of the home and/or difficulty of hard to reach areas to be cleaned.

Going by the rules is not difficult. To assure you’re getting an honest, quality duct cleaning service, avoid the hassles of finding one alone and place a request for bid, free. You can remain anonymous until you choose who to go with at QwikBids!