On the House Home Improvement Forum - Endless Dust

Just thought I would share a thread I found concerning dust and air duct cleaning. A homeowner was complaining about all the dust in her home and another homeowner recommended having her furnace and air ducts cleaned. - If only every homeowner new all the benefits of air duct cleaning!

Duct Cleaning Schedule for Christmas and New Years

Duct-911.com will be closed Tuesday 12/25/2007 to observe the birth of Jesus Christ. Both Duct-911.com and CleanMyFurnace.com will reopen for duct cleaning Wednesday the 26th and will be closed again New Years Day.

We would like to extend a heartfelt Merry Christmas and a Happy (and prosperous) New Year to all. 2007 Has been en extremely fun, exciting and prosperous year for our companies and we are very excited about what's in store for us in 2008. If this year can be used as a measurement, next year should be incredible!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
and a
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Chimney Cleaing - Cleaning the Chimney Stack on a Coffee Bean Roaster

We had fun last week cleaning the stack on a coffee bean roaster. Even though it was very simple, it still was very fun. According to the owner, John R of Northwoods Roasterie, a coffee shop located in Lindstrom, MN, the coffee bean roaster must be cleaned annually to satisfy the manufacturers warranty requirements.

The process was really no different then cleaning a house chimney. One of our guys was on top of the roof with a rotobrush, the other was positioned with vacuum in hand by the chimney stack of the coffee bean roaster. Since it was a straight shot, and a short chimney, the process was very quick. In one years time their hadn't accumulated much soot (creosote) in the chimney.

John explained that since his coffee shop is only one year old and he is still building his clientele, his chimney wasn't as dirty as what it will be next year. He explained that a coffee shop that roasted 800 or 900 pounds of coffee per day would perhaps need it cleaned more frequently.

5 Tips on Hiring an Air Duct Cleaner

When hiring a duct cleaner there are certain steps you can take to make sure you hire the very best duct cleaning company for your situation. To name just a few:

• Ask for a detailed description of the duct cleaning service they will provide for you.
• Get an approximate estimate for your project. Ideally, they will be able to give you a quote over the phone.
• Dos the price include tax?
• Are they able to provide other services related to duct cleaning like chimney cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, furnace cleaning, etc.
• Let them tell you as much as possible about their duct cleaning company and the services they provide. This way you can determine if they match your criteria.

These are just 5 of the 20 Tips on Hiring a Duct Cleaner article found on the website.

Are You Looking for a HVAC Contractor?

The heating season is here and it's definitely time to start thinking about your HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system. It seems like everyone I've been talking to is thinking about air duct cleaning, furnace filters, furnace tune-ups or buying a new heating and cooling system. Of course, I work in the business, but even so, people are certainly thinking about their heating system.

Now is a great time to get your air ducts cleaned and your furnace tuned-up. For as little as $189, you can have a professional air duct cleaner use a rotobrush to scrub your ducts clean. Generally speaking, air duct cleaners are trained and equipped to do more than just clean duct work. They typically do an excellent job of giving your furnace the much needed annual tune-up.

We subscribe to numerous HVAC magazines, and are constantly reminded of the importance of annual furnace tune-ups. If only we could get the word out to more homeowners about the importance of having your heating system checked out on a yearly basis.

Babies and Children More Vulnerable to Indoor Air Pollution

Children are more exposed to air, water pollution and pesticides because pound-for-pound, children breathe in more air, drink more water, and eat more food than adults.

Their bodies are growing and developing more rapidly, so chemicals that can harm their physical development can do maximum damage at this critical time.

Children also play on the floor, where allergens, such as dust, dirt, pet hair and other heavier-than-air chemicals settle and collect.

Then there's natural behavior: Putting everything in the mouth is a crucial part of normal development, the way a baby learns about the world.

For $189 ($99 for the air sweep and vacuum method) you can have all your air ducts thoroughly brushed clean using the roto-brush method. If you are concerned about your family's health, and would like to find out how you can have clean air ducts, call the pros at Duct-911.com today for more information: 651-653-4704.

Duct-911.com Partners with New York & Atlanta Air Duct Cleaners

In an ongoing effort to bring high quality and low priced air duct cleaning to homeowners all across the USA, Duct-911.com has now partnered with companies from Staten Island, New York and Atlanta, Georgia.

In New York you will now be able to get whole-house air duct cleaning from D&H Air Duct Cleaning for $99! They cover more than just the Staten Island area, they also work much of NYC and NJ. To setup an appointment to have your air ducts professionally cleaned call 718-475-5662.

In Atlanta you can get the same low price of $99 from Dr. Air Duct. Servicing all of the Atlanta metro area, like our New York air duct cleaning partner, they also clean dryer vents and are certified chimney sweeps. You can arrange an appointment with them if you call: 404-348-0111.

If you are from another area not yet serviced by Duct-911.com, please be patient. They are rapidly expanding and hope to have established relationships with air duct cleaners in your area soon. So, be bookmark their site and check back often!

Dryer Vent Cleaning and Air Duct Cleaning

As long as the allergy season is here and people are thinking air duct cleaning and furnace tune-ups, I thought an article about dryer vent cleaning might be useful information for homeowners as well

Cleaning your Dryer Vent
DIY Product reviews

This annual or semi-annual cleaning is easy to forget about, but is very important. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission over 15,000 fires and 19 deaths are related to dryer venting each year. In addition to the danger of a clogged dryer vent is a huge energy loss. A clear vent will allow moisture to escape better and the clothes will dry faster.

Inside the dryer clear any visible lint with a long handled brush or vacuum attachment. Clean the lint trap after the each load to reduce the lint build up.

On the venting leading outside of the house be sure to inspect a few different areas. First, make sure the venting to not kinked or bent. This would also be a good time to replace plastic or foil venting with a stronger solid or semi-ridig metal. Next, look at the exit on the outside of the house. Bird screens are notorious for collecting link and reducing air flow. Finally, if you have a long vent you need to it cleaned also. Professional air duct cleaning services or a chimney sweep can do this. You can also clean it with a shop-vac or an electric leaf blower. Remove the out side vent cover so the entire 4-inch vent is exposed. Move the dryer so you can get to vent with the equipment. Attach the end of the blower on the vent and seal it with a clamp of duct tape. Make sure the vac is set on blow not suck. Use the lowest setting to start and let it do the work. You will be amazed by the amount of link you will find it you grass.

There are some cleaning kits that use an auger brush and a drill to clean long runs, but they are expensive and could damage your venting without you seeing it. Solid and semi-ridig ducting can tear or separate it poked hard enough with a metal stick.

Heating and Cooling Tips from the Maryland Public Services Commission

Heating/Cooling Systems

If your home is heated or cooled by an electric heat pump, following these tips can help reduce your electric bill:

• Clean or change filters monthly; keep return air grilles and room registers clean.

• Make sure ductwork is properly sealed and insulated to prevent leakage, especially around the return. Check ductwork in attics and crawl spaces.

• Keep plants, shrubs, and other obstacles at least two feet away from the heat pump; keep the outdoor unit clear of snow and ice in the winter.

• Make sure your furnace has a pre-season check-up for efficiency and safety; ensure that a trained service technician checks your unit at least once every three years.

• When replacing your heating system, consider a multi-fuel furnace.

Remember—don’t turn off your heating and/or cooling system when you are not at home. Instead, turn the thermostat up or down a few degrees. Turning the system off means that is has to work twice as hard to get the rooms up to temperature; this uses more electricity. Turning back your thermostat by just a few degrees in the winter and up a few degrees in the summer can help save energy. Changing the thermostat frequently can also increase your energy costs. Instead, consider buying a programmable or adaptive recovery thermostat.

Ceiling and fl oor fans spread cool and warm air throughout a room and can assist your heating or cooling system and help keep your energy bill down. However, electric space heaters should be used sparingly, as these units can increase your energy use and your electric bill.

Looking for Air Duct Cleaning Testimonials?

Oftentimes we prefer to do business with companies that have more than just great ads and "catchy" slogans. Now days, most people prefer to do business with companies on a word-of-mouth basis. Here are two websites in the air duct cleaning industry that have testimonial after testimonial. Both websites have air duct cleaning testimonials and also heating and cooling installation testimonials:

CleanMyFurnace.com - Air Duct Cleaning Testimonials - Minneapolis and St. Paul
Duct-911.com - Air Duct Cleaning Testimonials - Nationwide (coming soon)

The latter company has just recently expanded their air duct cleaning services nationwide. For now they only have Minnesota air duct cleaning testimonials, but with the great service they provide, they will soon have scores of testimonials about air duct cleaning.

Shopping for a High Efficiency Natural Gas Furnace?

The thought of snow, cold and blowing winds lead to thoughts of warm blankets, furnaces and glowing fires. Most of us take our home heating and air conditioning system for granted. Until it breaks, that is. Then all we can think about is immediate relief.

The size of your home will dictate the size of the furnace needed. The two most common household furnaces are combustion and condensation.

How Furnaces Work:
Utilizing gravity to allow the warmer air in the top of a building to slowly displace the cooler air downwards through a complex series of vents and ductwork passages, air conditioning and heating installation engineers must design a system that utilizes both gravity and forced air to move warmer or cooler air to wherever its needed for comfort. At the furnace, cool air passes into the furnace, usually through an air filter, through the blower, then through the heat exchanger of the furnace, whence it is blown throughout the building.

High Efficiency Furnaces
There are several types of furnaces available but I recommend a High Efficiency furnace. Unless you have a particular need for another heat source ( Electric Furnaces , Mini-Duct Systems, Corn Stoves, Wood Stoves, etc.), generally speaking, the High Efficiency furnace is the way to go. High Efficiency furnaces are convenient, affordable, quiet, and of course very efficient.

Two-speed units and variable-capacity high efficiency furnaces generally operate at lower noise levels, run for longer periods of time, give better circulation and maintain a more consistent temperature in the house. Professionals believe that high efficiency natural gas furnaces are the perfect fit for any home.

Buying a High Efficiency Furnace
A free estimate for the purchase and installation of a new heating and air conditioning system is available through most HVAC dealers. Here are a few pointers when shopping for a New Furnace and A/C unit:

- Check Angies list for reputable HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) companies in your area if you dont already have an HVAC company you are working with and trust.
- If replacing a furnace, do not simply go with a model that is similar to the old one.
- Request a load calculation before choosing the furnace for your home. Your Heating and Cooling Contractor will provide this for you which will in turn help you make better buying decisions.
- A new high efficiency furnace will help keep you from receiving higher and higher energy bills every month.
- Choosing a brand of furnace that has a history of quality and reliability can be less costly in the long run.
- Determine the level of efficiency that will save you the most money.

Shop around, become familiar with the various brands of furnaces and get a few quotes to insure you get the best price.

Are You Due for a New Furnace?

Here is an excerpt of an article with tips regarding buying a furnace in Minnesota.

Buying a furnace in Minnesota

With a little research, buying a new furnace does not need to be difficult. Here are a few suggestions which Duct-911.com recommends when shopping for a New Heating and Cooling System:

- Choose a heating and cooling system that has the best costs with the features you feel are most important.
- When buying a new furnace, you might want to consider installing a humidifier at the same time. Proper humidity reduces heating costs by stopping wood shrinkage, which reduces cold air infiltration around door and window frames. In turn, you'll feel warm at lower temperatures.
- Choosing a brand of furnace that has a history of quality and reliability can be less costly in the long run.
- When purchasing a furnace consider the furnace noise level. Unfortunately, all furnaces do not come with a standard rating system for sound unlike heat pumps and air conditioners.

10 Ways to Help Lower Your Utility Bill

Here are 6 of the 10 energy saving tips as mentioned by James Bickers, an independent writer for the Courier-Journal. While the Mr. Bickers mentions cleaning the coils on the back of the refrigerator, he fails to mention the coils inside the air ducts.

As stated on the Duct-911.com website; "Dirty coils reduce the system's ability to cool your home and cause the system to run longer, increasing energy costs and reducing the life of the equipment. (energystar.gov)". Also, CleanMyFurnace.com, a Minnesota air duct cleaning company quotes the EPA saying; "A build up of .042 (1/20) inches of dirt on the heating or cooling coil can result in a decrease in efficiency of 21%".

At any rate, this article offers a few good pointers which homeowners can use to save money on their electric bill and we applaud him for it. Below are 6 of the 10 energy saving tips mentioned in the article:


2. Install a programmable thermostat. Abby Buford of Lowe's said a properly used and installed ENERGY STAR-compliant thermostat saves a homeowner up to $100 a year.

3. Raise the temperature. Got your new thermostat installed? It's time to use it. Even on the hottest days, try increasing the temperature by a degree or two, gradually acclimating yourself to the change. Consumer Reports estimates that for every degree you raise your cooling system, you'll cut about 3 percent off your energy bill. And learn about the programmable functions too -- have it automatically adjust upward by a few degrees overnights and when the house is empty.

5. Use your ceiling fans. While you're inching that thermostat up, use the noble ceiling fan to stay cool. They're very energy-efficient: David Schiff, book editor for Consumer Reports, said the average fan uses about as much electricity as a 100-watt bulb -- and it can take some of the load off the air conditioner. "You can use it for pennies a day, and you can probably nudge the AC up by about four degrees," he said.

6. Use a clothesline. Yes, a clothesline. Sure, some of your neighbors might look at you askance; the progressive ones will admire you. Electric dryers use a whopping amount of energy, and their work can just as easily be accomplished by Mother Nature on a sunny day. Plus, your clothes will last longer. "The stuff that's in your lint trap is really just your clothes falling apart," said Schiff.

7. Clean your refrigerator coils. Take off the grill at the bottom of your fridge. Chances are, you'll see some serious dust build-up on the coils behind. This area should be cleaned at least once a year, using a special tapered brush available at any hardware store. The result is a fridge whose motor won't have to run as often.

10. Keep your air conditioner clean and exposed. The A/C unit has to do something with the heat it draws out of your environment -- and while it's tempting to landscape around the big unit in your backyard, doing so will make it work harder to release that heat. Keep the area around the unit clean and open, with at least 2 feet of empty space all around.

If you would like to read this article in full Click Here

Installing an A/C System Everyone is Cool With Takes a Pro

It Takes a Pro to Put In an AC System Everyone's Cool With
By Tim Carter
Saturday July 21, 2007
WashingtonPost.com

Q: DEAR TIM: The air conditioning in my home has never seemed to work well.
My recent promotion and transfer has me moving to home that is in the early stages of construction. What can I do to ensure that the new home has a central air-conditioning system that keeps all rooms comfortable no matter the outdoor temperature? Is it possible to have all rooms nearly the same temperature? My existing home's second floor feels like an oven.-- Julie

A: DEAR JULIE: I can think of many reasons why the central air conditioning in your existing home does not cool properly. Some of the problems might have been corrected with a simple service call from an expert at air-conditioning troubleshooting. It's also possible that you have had serious air-conditioning-system design flaws that would have cost thousands of dollars to correct.
The central air-conditioning system, plus the heating system, is one of the most important parts of a home, after a sound roof and indoor plumbing. The systems create an artificial climate.
It is realistic to expect this climate to be the same in each room. In my home, each room, no matter the outdoor temperature or time of day (this is very important), can be within one or two degrees of any other room. That keeps my family and me comfortable.
It is unrealistic to expect your home to be a certain temperature no matter what the outdoor temperature is. In other words, if the outdoor temperature is 115 degrees, I would not expect you to be able to cool your home to 72 degrees without considerable discomfort on days when the temperature is, say, 85.
Central air-conditioning systems are designed to operate in a given range of temperatures. For example, the range in your part of the country may be 20 degrees. This means there is only a 20-degree difference between the outdoor temperature and the lowest temperature the system can maintain indoors. It is possible to create a wider temperature spread, but oversizing an air-conditioning system can result in short-cycling when the air conditioner has little work to do.
If an oversize air-conditioning system short-cycles, or has to drop the temperature only a few degrees, it does not run long enough to remove humidity from the air. When this happens, the temperature inside the home gets to the desired level, but you feel cold and clammy. Properly designed central air-conditioning systems run for 10 or 15 minutes at a time, which allows them to extract humidity as the air flows across the cooling coils in the air handler.
The key to getting a central air-conditioning system to work properly is to have a professional size the equipment and install a duct system that delivers the right quantity of air to each room of the house. Each room must also have a return-air duct that vacuums hot air from the ceiling and returns it to the central system to be cooled once more.
A professional air-conditioning technician can analyze your new-home plans with computer software to determine the heat gain and loss for each room. This same exercise can be done on existing homes. With this data, the technician can ensure that the proper size equipment is bought and that the ductwork is sized correctly.
Tim Carter can be contacted via his Web site, http://www.askthebuilder.com/printer_Submit_Question.shtml

Eco-Friendly Blog Offers Some Great Energy Saving Tips

For some very helpful, money saving, energy conscious tips you might want to visit the
eco-friendly blog called Keetsa! They recommend doing things like; changing furnace filters, installing programmable thermostats, closing the drapes during the day while you are away and much more.
In addition to eco-friendly/energy saving tips, they also have information ranging from solar power to "green" transportation. Even though they didn't specifically mention air duct cleaning, I am sure they soon will post a blog about air duct cleaning. After all, dirty air ducts reduce air flow and make your furnace work that much harder.

Indoor Air Pollution - EPA Calls it an Urgent Environmental Problem

Poor indoor air quality could affect your respiratory health

Published - July, 12, 2007
Kate S. Peabody
kpeabody@pnj.com

Just last week, you dusted off the mahogany desk in your home office, but days later, your work area is again layered with powdered grime.

Experts say this could be the result of poor indoor air quality. Left unchecked over time, it could adversely affect your respiratory health.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air pollution is one of the five most urgent environmental problems in the United States. But many people are unaware of the health risks lurking in their homes.

And if you are an asthma or allergy sufferer, you could be a little more vulnerable, according to Stephen Metzler, environmental supervisor for the Escambia County Health Department, Environmental Health Division.

And dust is not the only airborne irritant that causes problems — pollen, mold, mildew and tobacco smoke are some of the other culprits...

...Gulf Breeze resident David Stukey, an allergy sufferer, knows about the discomfort poor air quality can cause for people with respiratory problems, and has taken measures regularly to keep the air in his home relatively allergen-free.

In the early spring, Stukey, 33, hired a professional team to clean his ventilation system.

"They came in, cleaned my air duct system and my filter," Stukey said. "The result was that the air in my home was noticeable clearer."...

Portable Air Conditioners - Cheap and no Installation!

A portable air conditioner might be the way to go if you have a hot spot in your home and have a means to run an air duct outside. This article explains how they can be a great alternative for businesses that have a room or area that is always hot, perhaps due to computers and other office machines.

Cool Down

ITworld.com 6/22/2007


Summer makes it hot outside, but data centers tend to be too hot inside every day of the year. Ever thought about installing an air conditioner in the bottom of your server rack?

While speaking at the ITEC conferences this month, I noticed every show has at least one exhibitor showing off portable air conditioners. In Detroit, I stopped and talked to the folks at Spot Coolers about their products. You can see my interview on video here.

The smallest unit fits inside a standard 19-inch cabinet. Obviously you have to run a duct for the exhaust, because the Laws of Thermodynamics and modern manufacturing dictate more hot air gets created than cold air (about 20 percent more). But each cooler includes a standard size air duct for the exhaust to be routed out of the room or into the ceiling.

Why roll in a cooler? People do it for many reasons, including emergencies when their main systems fail or they want to cover new hardware editions while expanding the house system. Small installations sometimes go for the portable coolers while waiting for the "real" air handling system to be installed, or while waiting to move to a new location.

Greg Lawhorn from Spot Coolers (meet him in the video) said they can deliver units quickly and they start working immediately. Imagine getting your building's HVAC group to add a few tons of cooling in one day. The smallest unit is about one ton of cooling and they go up from there. Prices start at under $3,000 for the small one and go up, but not way way up for the amount of cooling provided. Have a data center in a truck? They're all the rage in the news, if not reality. Lucky for you, Spot Coolers has an air conditioner on a trailer. Those bring 25 tons of cooling to a building or your data center on wheels.

No matter what you spend on a portable unit, it will be cheaper than an installed system, if not neater and more convenient. But for offices that move now and then, it's easy to roll out your portable air handler and maintain your cooling investment. Try taking the building system you upgraded with you, and transporting that in a standard pickup truck.

James E. Gaskin writes books (16 so far), articles and jokes about technology and real life from his home office in the Dallas area. Gaskin has been helping small and medium sized businesses use technology intelligently since 1986. Write him at james.gaskin@itworld .com.

Need a Carrier, Lennox, Goodman or a Payne Air Conditioner Installed?

Whether you are looking for a new central A/C installation or air duct cleaning, these are the people to contact:

Air Duct Cleaning 651-653-4704

We have great deals on Carrier, Lennox, Goodman or a Payne air conditioning systems. If you are looking for central air installation this summer, we are the company to call. 651-653-4704 or check us out on the web for a Heating and Cooling Installation "INTERNET-ONLY" deal on Central Air Installation

Certified, Licensed, Bonded and Insured

Air Duct Cleaning 651-653-4704

Services Offered by our Certified HVAC Installers:

New Furnace Iinstall

New A/C Installation (central air conditioning)

Preventative Maintenance Program

Troubleshooting

A/C Recharge

Air Ductwork Installation

Additional Heating and Cooling Systems Repaired:
Amana, American Standard, Bryant, Comfort Maker, Day & Night, Fedders, Fredrich, GMC, General Electric, Heil, Janitrol, Kenmore, Magic Chef, Rheem, Rudd, Sears, Singer, Toshiba, Trane, Whirlpool, York, and many more!

Our HVAC Technicians are Trained to Repair the Following Heating and A/C Systems:

Split Systems

Forced Air Furnaces

Central Air Units

Ductless Systems

A C Evaporators

A/C Compressors and Condensors

Refrigeration Units

Electronic Air Filtration Units

Air Handlers and Air Exchangers

Heat Pumps

We are a certified HVAC Contractor and are fully LICENSED, BONDED and INSURED. We would be honored to be your A/C Contractor

Air Duct Cleaning Services Offered:

Air-Sweep Cleaning of all Duct Work

Rotobrush(Roto-Brush) Duct Clean Method

A/C & Heating System Clean and Check

Air Vent Cleaning

Mold and Mildew Inspection (ductwork)

Allergen Removal

Mold Remediation

Our Air Duct Cleaners Also Provide the Following Services...

Chimney Cleaning (chimney sweep)

Chimney Safety Inspection (inspect damper, cracked flu liner)

Remove Creosote (from flue liner)

Fireplace Cleaning (inspect and clean fire place)

Wood Stove (clean out ash pit)

Dryer Vent Cleaning (Clothes Dryer Fires)

Clean Water Heaters (water heater clean also includes vent inspection)

Install Air Filters

A-Coil Clean (free a/c coil inspection)

Services Offered by our Certified HVAC Installers:

New Furnace Iinstall

New A/C Installation (central air conditioning)

Preventative Maintenance Program

Troubleshooting

A/C Recharge

Air Ductwork Installation

Brands We Install:

Carrier

Lennox

Goodman

Payne

LG

Additional Heating and Cooling Systems Repaired:

Amana, American Standard, Bryant, Comfort Maker, Day & Night, Fedders, Fredrich, GMC, General Electric, Heil, Janitrol, Kenmore, Magic Chef, Rheem, Rudd, Sears, Singer, Toshiba, Trane, Whirlpool, York, and many more!

Our HVAC Technicians are Trained to Repair the Following Heating and A/C Systems:

Split Systems

Forced Air Furnaces

Central Air Units

Ductless Systems

A C Evaporators

A/C Compressors and Condensors

Refrigeration Units

Electronic Air Filtration Units

Air Handlers and Air Exchangers

Heat Pumps

Air Duct Cleaning $109.95
Furnace or A/C
A/C and Furnace Installs
HVAC Install Specials
Duct Cleaning MN
Chicago Duct Cleaning
Facts About Air Duct Cleaning
Duct Cleaning A/C

When do I Need Air Duct Cleaning?

When do I Need Air Duct Cleaning?

By: Amy Nutt

Air duct cleaning is an important part of home maintenance. A dirty air duct can lower the quality of the air in your house by promoting the circulation of allergens and bacteria in the air.

When do you need to have duct cleaning? There are several signs that indicate the need for a thorough air duct cleaning. Here are some of the major points that indicate the need for an air duct cleaning.

1. The growth of mold inside the ducts or on the surface of the cooling or heating system. (mold growth can only accurately be determined by professionals)
2. The infestation of insects or any small unwanted pests in the ducts.
3. If they are clogged with a great deal of dust or other debris...

Check out our newly re-designed air duct cleaning website!

At long last our air duct cleaning website is nearly complete! While there are a couple of things left to be done like add content to 3 new buttons, the rest is finished!

We think you will really like the feature which enables you to click on a map of the US and be directed to contractors in your area. Here is the Air Duct Cleaning Map of the USA. This page allows the user to select their state and then fill out the "Schedule Air Duct Cleaning" page or the "National Air Duct Cleaning" page

By clicking on the "Install" button, you will be taken to the Heating & Cooling Installation page. Here are two samples of how that works:
"Heating and Cooling Installation MN" or "Heating and Cooling Installation GA"

Please let us know what you think. We would really welcome any input you might have.
Dave

5 easy steps in choosing the perfect furnace for your home

Deciding on a furnace for your house may well be intimidating, but it really should not be so terribly complicated. Talk over these simple steps outlining elements which you may perhaps want to investigate when buying a furnace.

1. Which One is Best, Gas or Electric?

The Gas Furnace - A Gas furnace is generally more affordable to use than an electric furnace if Gas is readily on hand. On the downside, burning fuel produces fumes. In a well maintained Gas furnace, the fumes created are enclosed in the exchanger and then exit the building via an exhaust vent.

Remember, a Gas furnace must be examined by a qualified expert at the least once a year. The specialist should explore the furnace for holes, leaks or cracks. An opening or crack in the furnace lets carbon monoxide seep into your house or place of business.

The Electric Furnace - An electric furnace has a higher operating price than a Gas furnace does. The good news is, for the reason that electric furnaces do not employ flames, it will not effect any carbon monoxide. The electric furnace is cleaner in addition to safer than a Gas furnace.

2. Furnace quality

The value of a furnace determines how long and how well it will perform. Deciding on a brand of furnace that has a past of quality as well as reliability could be less costly over time. Confer with your contractor about which style will be optimal for your demands. Most Heating and air conditioning firms offer a free estimate for the procurement and installation of a new hvac layout.

3. Furnace Efficiency Ratings

The effectiveness of Gas furnaces are attested by the AFUE or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency ratings. The AFUE rating of a furnace records how efficiently the fuel is being expended. The AFUE is a representation of a Gas furnace's efficiency in converting fuel to energy. In certain cases, a higher AFUE rating means it will consume less fuel to heat your house or business.

Gas furnaces which have higher AFUE ratings customarily cost more than those which have lowered AFUE ratings but they may save a home owner more capital in the long run. A minimum rating of 78% was regulated by the u.s. government in 1992. A few furnaces have an efficiency rating of about 60% before 1992.

a. Mid-Efficiency Furnaces

A mid-efficiency furnace, also known as an ‘induces draft furnace’ or a ‘non-condensing furnace’. The mid-efficiency furnace simply affords the absolute minimum of 78% efficiency to approximately 80%.

b. High-Efficiency Furnaces

A high-efficiency furnace is further recognized as a ‘condensing furnace’ or a ‘sealed combustion furnace’. The high-efficiency furnace will always have an AFUE rating of as much as 96%. Some furnaces utilize a two-stage valve and an efficient variable-speed motor to increase comfort as well as effectiveness.

4. Comfort Items of Furnaces

Numerous furnaces deliver features which increase comfort and overall efficiency.

a. The components of the two-speed furnace

The furnace can function at low speed the better part of the time. It allows for a more quieter operation for a greater period of time compared to a ‘single-speed furnace’. The longer run periods allow for fewer start-up/shut-down cycles, less drafts, as well as very little temperature deviation.

The temperature fluctuation is confined to about two degrees in contrast to the four degree deviation of the single-speed units. The two-speed unit contributes more adept circulation which prevents warmer air from drifting up as well as the cooler air from settling. The two-speed unit presents a more consistent temperature in the facility.

b. The components of variable capacity furnaces

Furnaces having variable capacity provide a blend of efficiency plus gratification. The variable capacity has a motor that regulates your demands by mechanically adjusting air volume and speed. The variable capacity furnace provides the least expensive means of heating and cooling.

A fan comes with the variable capacity furnace. The fan will relieve your cost throughout summer. If the fan is used all the way through summer, the central air cooling unit increases in efficiency.

5. Noise Level of the Furnace

Unfortunately, all furnaces do not usually come with a normal rating system for sound unlike heat pumps and a/c systems. Albeit, two-speed units and variable capacity units normally operate at a low noise levels.

The two-speed and variable capacity furnaces run for longer periods plus lowered sounds than the conventional unit. Various variable capacity units have items which impede ‘creaking’ of the ducts due to expansion as well as contraction caused by varying temperature. The temperature differential is dropped along these lines so that the creaking noise is just about eliminated.

Furnace Fraud - Beware of HVAC Installers Using Bait and Switch Tactics

While not a prevalent practice in the upper midwest, unscrupulous HVAC installers have been known to use one of two techniques in defrauding unsuspecting homeowners. One is using a bait and switch technique, the other is taking a down payment on the job and then skipping town.

In an article distributed in the 'The Register Citizen', Viktoria Sundqvist writes:

"Two types of fraud we often see involve companies who take the money and run," said Jordan Tandy, spokesman for Internet network Angie's List. "Some service providers take a deposit, but never complete or start a job."
The second fraud type that is very common is the bait-and-switch tactic, Tandy said.
"They'll sell the (customer) an item, such as a furnace, but install a different one without the (customer's) approval," Tandy said.
Contracting fraud occurs if a person obtains money by false pretense, acts as a contractor without a contractor's license and misapplies money..."

This is why we strongly recommend a 3 step approach:
1.) contact the Better Business Bureau to learn of any complaints and how they were resolved.
2.) Check with your states Secretary of State office to determine if they have a legal business.
3.) Ask for references and contact at least three of them.

If you live in Minnesota you can take the easy way out when looking for a heating and cooling contractor. Simply call 651-653-4704 and you will be connected with a reputable company that has been a leader in the HVAC industry since 1991.

Twin Cities Air Duct Cleaning Company Provides Wide Range of HVAC Services

CleanMyFurnace.com has added a new Zip Code page to assist you in determining if they provide services in your area. While they have the cities they service listed on the their home page, now CleanMyFurnace.com has made it even easier for potential customers to find out if heating and cooling related services are provided in their area.

If you would like to see if the air duct cleaning zip codes covered by CleanMyFurnace.com include your hometown, all you need to do is locate your city on the list and look for your zip code. If your city or zip code is not listed, call 651-653-4704 and ask Renee to add you to the list. They have many people on the outskirts of their service area who are willing to wait until a full day can be routed. At $99, many of them are willing to wait a month or two just to get in on the deal!

Global Warming - Leading Scientist Says'Tune-Up Your furnace & A/C'

An inefficient heating and cooling system will consume more electricity and fossil fuels. According to the EPA, something as simple as a dirty A-coil can reduce efficiency by 21%. Combine that with a dirty filter, and dirty air ducts and you have a heating and cooling system that is wasting energy unnecessarily.

Here is the article printed in Gazette Extra:


Do what you can to help reduce global warming

(Published Thursday, May 17, 2007 11:24:53 AM CST)

...Have your furnace and air conditioner tuned. Change or clean your air filters regularly so units run at maximum efficiencies.

"If each of us becomes a more efficient user of energy, there is less need to build new coal-fired power plants," UW-Madison climate researcher John J. Magnuson told Lux.

In fighting global warming, "there is no single silver bullet," Magnuson said. "Instead, there is a lot of silver buckshot."...

A New Air Duct Cleaning Blog

Here is another air duct cleaning website. Yep, it's operated by the folks at Duct-911.com so you can trust what they say. The first article talks about their "Whole-House" air duct cleaning special for $99. I am sure they will have many HVAC related articles soon.

Better Business Bureau Tips: Beware of Phony Air Duct Cleaners

Here is an excellent article written by the president and CEO of the Dayton, Ohio Better Business Bureau. She addresses many of the very things we have always suggested; CALL THE BBB!

Like many home services providers, air duct cleaning has its share of scoundrels. Whether you are planning on hiring a carpet cleaner or an air duct cleaner or a vinyl siding installer, check them out!

We recommend visiting Duct-911.com to contact an air duct cleaner in your area. Click on the map and then select your state. Although it is a relatively new website, already there are several pre-screened air duct cleaners, with more contractors signing up every day.

Donna Childs: Don't get cleaned out by phony air duct cleaners

By Donna Childs

Better Business Bureau

Sunday, May 06, 2007

With the growing concern of home air quality, more companies are offering air duct cleaning. Many place ads or coupons in newspapers or send them by mail offering rock-bottom prices to clean air ducts.

If you see air duct cleaning ads for $69.95 to $99.95, know that you cannot get your air ducts cleaned for that price. The ad is to hook you into letting the company come out. Then, they run up your bill, sometimes saying the $69.95 is for a limited number of air ducts or other tricks.

The Better Business Bureau gets calls and complaints about a few companies misleading customers with false advertising. The consumers say their bills total up to $1,000 once the employee has completed the service.

It's outrageous to expect to pay MAYBE $100 and end up with a bill in the hundreds or thousands with air ducts that haven't been cleaned.

If you need your air ducts cleaned, be sure to know who you're doing business with. There are a few trustworthy air duct cleaning services in our area. The Better Business Bureau offers this advice to help you find one:...

Donna Childs is the president and CEO

of the Dayton Better Business Bureau.

10 Ways to Save Money and Energy - 4 Are HVAC Related

The following post was found on the businesswire.com website and refers to Florida Power and Light's 'Top 10 Tips to save you money':

Money-Saving Makeovers Help Families Conserve Energy and Dollars
JUNO BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)JUNO BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)
April 18, 2007

• Cool your home at 78° or warmer with the thermostat fan switch on "auto." For additional savings, raise your thermostat to 82° or warmer when you're away from home.
• Install a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature automatically and maximize your energy savings. It also helps to maintain a comfortable temperature when everyone wakes up or returns home.
• Clean or replace the a/c filter every month to trim cooling costs and help the unit run more efficiently.
• Adjust the water level on the washing machine to match the load size, especially when using hot water. Always use a cold rinse.
• Clean the lint filter in the dryer before every load. Use the auto sensor function (if there is one) to conserve energy by not over-drying the clothes...

"Handyman Show" Discusses Air Duct Cleaning

Truck Mounted Vacuums are the Best Method of This Television Handyman.

While both methods of air duct cleaning are better than doing nothing at all, truck mounted vacuums seems to out-weigh portable vacuums. More importantly though, check with the Better Business Bureau to determine if and how the company resolves complaints. Here is what a Local TV personality had to say regarding air duct cleaning:

Wednesday, April 18, 2007
The Detroit News

Glenn Haege: Ask Glenn

Dear Glenn : I really enjoy your weekly articles. Having read about dust mites in last Saturday's article, I want to ask what you think of the companies that clean furnace ductwork. I've seen them around for many years and wonder if they really help.

John, Westland

Dear John: I have recommended duct cleaning for at least 20 years.... I like duct cleaning using the large high-powered truck mounted vacuum systems....more

If you have a question, call the "Handyman Show" with Glenn Haege from noon- 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at (866) ASK GLENN. The show can be heard locally on WJR-AM (760) and more than 160 radio stations nationwide. To suggest a question for Haege's Wednesday "Ask Glenn" column at detnews.com, write: Ask Glenn, Master Handyman Press, P.O. Box 1498, Royal Oak, MI 48068-1498, or e-mail askglenn@masterhandyman. com.

Again, please don't get too hung-up on which vacuum is best cleaning air ducts. Do some research and determine which company has the best reputation, customer service and of course pricing.

Spring Time is Here - Maintaining Your A/C

A/C - Maintenance

Spring is right around the corner. Time to start thinking about getting your central air conditioner ready for the dog days of summer. Your home’s heating and cooling systems should give you many years of service with proper maintenance. Preventive maintenance will lower your energy costs, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life of your systems. Regular maintenance will ensure that your system is ready to heat and cool your home when needed. Most heating and cooling systems should be serviced once a year by a professional heating or cooling contractor. The professional contractor has the tools, instruments and training necessary to maintain your system for dependable, trouble-free operation. The contractor should inspect your systems, including the thermostat, the blower motor and fans the ducting as well as the AC condenser and evaporator units, the furnace gas connections and heat exchanger and complete necessary maintenance tasks and adjust the entire system for optimal performance.

Here are some things that you can do.

Filters :Inspect air filters and clean or replace as necessary.

Registers : Reduce dust in your home by vacuuming heat registers and the cold air return as part of your regular cleaning.

Ducts: Examine exposed supply ducts for gaps or leaks allowing heated air to escape. Look for gaps and run your hand along exposed supply ducts with the blower running to feel for escaping air. Seal any leaks with duct tape.

Listen : Listen to your condenser, evaporator and furnace when they are running. If you hear unusual noises, follow the appliance manual’s directions or consult with your professional heating contractor.

Obstructions : Remove any objects or debris that may have fallen through the registers. Remove any drapes, furniture or other objects blocking registers, interrupting airflow and lowering your system’s efficiency.

Condensate Removal

One of the most inconvenient and costly home repairs - ceiling/floor damage is due to evaporator coil condensate overflow. It is preventable.

Each unit has a primary drain to handle the amazing amount of moisture an evaporator coil can produce (up to 50 gallons on a very hot, very humid day!). If the primary drain line becomes clogged the drain pan under the evaporator coil and it’s attached drain secondary drain line are supposed to handle the water – often they do not, resulting in costly and unsightly ceiling and floor damages.

If you have upper floor or attic mounted evaporator coils (they’re the ones inside your house – the condenser is the one on the outside) make sure you check the drain lines and drain pans. The auxiliary drain needs to have a separate drain line! Too often, I see the auxiliary drain line tied into the main drain line. The drain line for the auxiliary drain pan really needs to terminate at a conspicuous area. Over a door or window would do best. When you see moisture dripping from the auxiliary drain line, go check the drain pan under the evaporator. If it has water in it - the primary drain line is clogged and you should call a professional.

To kill fungus, prevent organic build up and keep your primary drain running smoothly, pour one cup of a 50/50 solution of bleach and water into the opening at the condensate drain line where it leaves the evaporator coil. Doing this in the spring and fall will also help prevent condensate from backing up and flooding.

Make sure the drain pan opening to the secondary drain line (usually white PVC) is not clogged with organic material, insulation or other debris. If the line is visible make sure it has a downhill slope to the outside (they are often jostled about or stepped on in the attic).

HVAC systems, like cars, will run better and last longer with proper care and maintenance. But not many of us really know what to do to maintain them. Most of us have lots of questions like “How often should I change my filters? If I use a media filter (the special, big, expensive 4” thick ones) should I also use the disposable ones in return air chases?” etc., etc. HVAC-Talk (Click Here) is a really good place to go for information. Click on “HVAC Forum” to get free information, advice and suggestions from HVAC pros.

John Harashinski

On The Level Home Inspections

Internet Specials on Furnace, A/C and Air Duct Installation

Residential Heating and Air, also known as CleanMyFurnace.com is now offering special "internet only pricing" on new furnace and a/c installation. CleanMyFurnace.com has been installing furnaces and air conditioning HVAC systems across the entire Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area for over 15 years.

Although the website name; CleanMyFurnace.com implies furnace and air duct cleaning, they have actually been a full service HVAC company from the start. Now, CleanMyFurnace.com is offering "Internet Only Pricing" on new furnace and air conditioning installation.

Money Saving Tips During the Summer Heat Wave

Here are some great tips for saving money this summer which I found on The Motley Fool website:

Get Ready for the Heat Wave

By Dayana Yochim

April 10, 2007

Your pale legs may not yet be ready for prime time, but make no mistake -- summer's coming, and a lot of consumers are starting to sweat the accompanying AC bills.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average family shells out $1,500 annually for utilities. Air conditioning can account for as much as 70% of summer energy costs. To put this in everyday context, let's hear from Mr. Electricity: He says that running central AC for 12 hours a day for three weeks uses more energy than leaving the refrigerator door open 24 hours a day for an entire year. (I'm not willing to sacrifice my Fudgesicle stash to fact-check that theory.) While that may be good for electric utility companies like Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) and Sempra (NYSE: SRE), it'll put a major dent in your pocketbook if you're not careful.

Pre-season drill
To twist a timeless cliche: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of sweat. Small things (like changing the filter and cleaning the coil) can reduce your unit's original efficiency anywhere from 5% to 20% each year. Here are some tips that will help you beat the heat wave and keep your (financial) cool this summer:

Get audited: Many utility companies perform energy audits for free or a small fee. They'll identify trouble spots and make remedy recommendations.

Get a regular HVAC physical: Regular maintenance (which you're going to schedule right now, right?) will prevent a minor HVAC problem from turning into a major one.

During an annual checkup, your heating/cooling pro can also look for buildup on the outdoor AC and heating coils and clean them. Ask them how to check and clean the indoor coil, too. Because the coil is moist during summertime, it attracts a lot of dust. According to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), dirt buildup on the indoor coil is the most common cause of poor efficiency.

Keep your coolant: A system that's 10% low on coolant (also called freon or the "refrigerant charge") costs about 20% more to operate than a system that's fully loaded, says the ACCA. (Leave the topping off to the pros, since freon is a hazardous substance.) Additionally, low freon can cause the compressor to overheat and die early. That can result in a big-ticket repair bill if you have to replace the compressor or condensing unit.

Go with the flow: All AC operation manuals recommend cleaning or replacing your air filter about once a month. (Easier said than done in my place, where doing so requires moving a bookcase. Is that bad feng shui?) Most filters cost less than a cappuccino, and a clean one can lower your AC's energy suck by 5% to 15%.

Keep a lid on it: Grandma was right about drafts being dangerous. Worn-out (or nonexistent) weatherproofing can result in serious air leaks that can contribute to more than one-third of cooling costs. (Looks like plastic sheeting and duct tape are handy to have around.) About 30% of the heat in your house is absorbed through the roof. Vents and attic fans can help keep things circulating and prevent your bills from going through the ... well, you get it.

Do planetary good and save big: Switching to a high-efficiency air conditioner (see energystar.gov for more), though costly, will probably put the most money back in your pocket over time. According to the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI), a homeowner replacing a 10-year-old unit could improve energy efficiency by as much as 55% by upgrading to a system with a more efficient SEER. Not only that, but the karmic bonus points are immeasurable. Two-thirds of all homes have AC, releasing about 100 million tons of carbon dioxide into the air each year. (That's two tons for each home with an air conditioner.)

If you need more incentive to replace that old unit with a more environmentally friendly one, Uncle Sam's got it: He offers tax credits -- up to $500 per home -- for certain energy-efficient improvements. In addition, some states offer rebates on the cost of purchasing energy-efficient units. For more, visit the Tax Incentives Assistance Project (TIAP) website.

More ways to make and save money during heat waves:

• Make Money From Mother Nature
• 50 Simple Tips for Big Savings
• Go Green, Save Money

And, finally, beware of the cost of cool (metaphorically speaking, that is).

Dayana Yochim keeps her cool in the D.C. heat by drinking plenty of fluids, using a defrizzing hair balm, and programming her thermostat. She offers all sorts of cool money tips (at least $450 worth every month) over at the Motley Fool Green Light service. Take a 30-day free trial and come hang out with the cool kids counting their cash. Duke Energy is an Income Investor pick. Dayana doesn't own any of the companies in this story. The Fool has a disclosure policy.

Click here if you would like to see examples of a dirty a-coil. This a-coil isn't even that dirty!

Air Conditioning Service Contracts

I found this article on MyWestTexas.com and thought it was very pertinent to air duct cleaning. The author, Trish Powell of the BBB, explains that while this is the time of year to get your air conditioner tuned-up and inspected - BEWARE of service contracts.

Here is a link to her article: http://www.mywesttexas.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18177043&BRD=2288&PAG=461&dept_id=475590&rfi=6

Do You Have Mold in Your Air Ducts?

I just found this article about mold and thought I would share it with all of you. While it is from New York and is not specifically about air duct cleaning I thought it was very relevant to our industry.


Facts About Mold
by NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

What is mold?
•Mold (mildew), mushrooms, and yeast are all types of fungi. Fungi are found both indoors and outdoors.
•Hundreds of different kinds of mold are commonly found in the United States and New York City.

How do I know it's mold?
•Mold can be many different colors. It may look furry, slimy, or powdery.
•Some mold has a musty, stale, or earthy odor.
•Mold usually grows in damp places, such as bathrooms and basements.

How does mold grow?
•Mold needs water and food. It can grow almost anywhere there is water, high humidity, or damp conditions.
•Mold grows faster in warm temperatures and high humidity.
•Mold can feed on paper, fabric, wallpaper glue, sheetrock, wood, soap scum, leather, and many other surfaces.

How are people exposed to mold?
•You can breathe in mold particles if mold is disturbed or damaged.
•You can also breathe in tiny spores (similar to seeds) that mold may release into the air.
•You can touch mold and get it on your skin.
•You can swallow mold if you eat moldy or spoiled food.

What are the health effects of mold?
•Some people are allergic to molds.
•Mold exposure may cause or worsen asthma symptoms, hay fever, or other allergies.
•The most common symptoms of mold exposure are cough, congestion, runny nose, and trouble breathing. Symptoms usually disappear after the mold contamination is removed.
•More severe reactions to mold may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of mold on the job, such as farmers working with moldy hay.

Should I see a doctor if I have been exposed to mold?
•If you think that you or your children have symptoms related to mold exposure, you should see a doctor. Keep in mind that many symptoms associated with mold exposure are also caused by many other illnesses.

How can mold be prevented?
•The best way is to remove water and moisture sources. Fixing leaks, drying damp areas, and removing humidity from the air (e.g., using a dehumidifier in basements; cracking a window while taking a shower in bathrooms with no exhaust ventilation) will help stop mold growth and keep it from coming back.

How can I safely clean mold in my home?
•Use soap and water to clean small areas of mold (less than 10 square feet) on walls or other hard surfaces as soon as you see it.
•Wear waterproof gloves.
•Dry the cleaned area completely.
•If the mold returns quickly or spreads, there may be an underlying problem such as a water leak. To stop mold, water problems must be fixed.
•If large areas of mold are present, you may need a professional mold
abatement company. Check the phone book for mold abatement contractors.

What does my landlord have to do?
•Your landlord and building manager must keep your building in good condition so mold will not grow. This means repairing water leaks and correcting persistently high humidity levels.
•If you have a lot of mold (more than 10 square feet) or it keeps coming back after you have cleaned it, ask your landlord to fix the problem.
•If the problem isn't fixed, call 311.

More Information:
For those seeking to learn more about mold, the EPA offers a free online course at: http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldcourse/index.html

Air Duct Cleaning and Fighting Allergies

I found this article and thought it was very informative. It does cover a broad range of Air Duct Cleaning issues including; air duct cleaning methods used, FACTS, and allergies. You might want to visit the Article Library at CleanMyFurnace.com and learn even more about this subject.

How can one be sure they have employed the most upstanding hvac cleaning technician?

With mainly three different methods used to clean the air ducts in your home and prices fluctuating from $59 to $800, you the customer want to be well informed prior to contacting heating and air conditioning cleaning technicians.

So how come there is such a wide range in prices? The answer lies somewhere between customer preferences and business marketing techniques. For example, someone who is a very clean person that has just bought an old house from a homeowner that had several pets, may not be as concerned with the price. Rather, someone that just wants to get his or her ductwork cleaned because his or her neighbor just had it done, might only want to pay a minimal amount. heating and cooling cleaning technicians know this and will base their marketing around it.

So what are the different systems which heating and air conditioning cleaning technicians use? The most well-known methods include:

- Rotary vacuum/brushing, with camera
- Rotary vacuum/cleaning
- High-pressure air sweeping

Rotary vacuum brushing
If the homeowner or someone in your house suffers from severe allergies, you might want the reassurance which using the camera can give you. You will know for certain that all dust, debris and grime has been removed. But be prepared to pay a price! This system is very time consuming so the heating and air conditioning cleaning technician will not be able to see as many households per day. Typically, the heating and air conditioning cleaning technician will come out and give you the customer a bid. You the customer might want to reason at what point it is better to just replace the old air ducts with new!

High-Pressure Air -sweep
The air-wash system is low priced and less time consuming. But will it be effective enough in removing dust and dirt? Probably not. What if you have a newer house with new duct work which still has factory-processing oils inside it? Conversely, if you the customer just had your air ducts cleaned last year, it might not be as important to have such a detailed job done this time. These are questions only you the customer might answer. If you the customer are an extremely tidy person (have you been called a neatnik before?) the homeowner might be most happy with the camera system. Or, if the air ducts was recently cleaned, the homeowner might want to go with the high-pressure air-wash system. Most persons are somewhere in the middle. If the company you the customer hire is highly respectable and you the customer might trust the heating and air conditioning cleaning technician to do a good job, you might want to consider using the brush cleaning method (minus the camera) first. Later, once all the air ducts have been swept, you might convert to the lesser priced air-wash method.

Assuredly, cleaning your air ducts out, with or without a camera, or merely using the high-pressure air-wash method is better and healthier for you and your household than doing nothing at all. Either way, you will have peace of mind, knowing that decaying pet and rodent hair and fecal matter will not be floating around your facility. As the saying goes; 'If it's in the air, it will soon be in your lungs'.

Why do Air Duct Cleaning Prices Differ so Greatly?

Having your duct system professionally cleaned is a vital part of dramatically improving the indoor air in your home. The service providers may apply chemical biocides, designed to kill microbiological contaminants, to the inside of the duct work and to other system components and some providers may also suggest to apply chemical treatments such as sealants to encapsulate or cover the inside surfaces of the air ducts and equipment housings as it will help to control mold growth or prevent the release of dirt particles or fibers from ducts.

Because we spend approximately 90 percent of our time indoors, we must do everything possible to improve the air we breathe. When choosing a company to clean your air ducts, it is important to understand what components will actually be cleaned and at what price. Your air duct system functions as the respiratory system of your home.

Following are a few air duct cleaning FACTS that have been determined by recognized authorities in the fields of health and air quality:
-Most people spend 60-90% of their time indoors.
-Children and the elderly are especially affected by polluted indoor air.
-Studies have shown that two out of three indoor air quality problems involve the Heating Ventilation System.

In light of these facts, you may want to ask yourself a few questions:
-Is there a smoker in the house?
-Do you notice dust on your furniture shortly after cleaning?
-Do you notice 'musty' or 'stale' odors when the furnace runs?
If you answer YES to any of the following questions, it may be time to have your air ducts cleaned.

Do you or does someone in you home suffer from allergies? Air duct filters are another way that allergy sufferers can begin to take back their life and break free from from allergy symptoms. If your allergy is to airborne elements, you are really at the mercy of changing winds, weather, and seasons too when you are outdoors.

Here are just a few things which can effect the air you breathe:
Inadequate or contaminated air handling units
There are numerous occupants in the home
There are shedding pets in the house

But wait, there are things you can do to improve the quality of your air. Ventilation and cleanliness play important parts in maintaining good air quality; although, the indoor environment is impacted by many factors. If possible, a portable unit should be placed as close as possible to any known pollutant point, example, close to a pets sleeping area.

In addition to air duct cleaning, you may want to think about filtration. Electrostatic filters are environmentally friendly. They are a lifetime filter, so you will no longer have to toss out disposable filters every month (our environment will love you for it). Using ionization, electrostatic high performance efficiency furnace filters remove dust, pollen, mold spores and animal dander as the air circulates through your central system.

An inadequately trained air duct cleaner can damage your ducts or heating and cooling system, possibly increasing your heating and air conditioning costs or forcing you to undertake difficult and costly repairs or replacements. So next time you hire the services of a Duct Cleaning company dont just choose the one with the lowest price or the one with the big fancy advertisement, be sure to get references, check them out with your local BBB and make sure that they are licensed and insured.

How might you, as a customer, be sure you have contracted the most reputable duct cleaning tech?

With primarily three different techniques used to clean the heating and cooling ducts in your house and prices varying from $59 to $800, you the customer should be well informed prior to contacting duct cleaning techs.

So what justifies the huge difference in prices? The answer lies somewhere between homeowner preferences and business marketing practices. For example, someone who is a very clean person that has just bought an old home from a family that had several pets, may not care about the price. However, a person that just wants to get his or her ductwork cleaned because his or her neighbor just had it done, might only wish to pay a minimal amount. duct cleaning techs know this and will base their marketing around it.

So what are the different methods which duct cleaning techs use? The most familiar techniques include:

- Rotary vacuum/cleaning, with camera
- Rotary vacuum/cleaning
- High-pressure air sweeping

Rotary vacuum cleaning
If you or a person in your home suffers from severe allergies, you might want the assurance which using the camera can give the homeowner. You the customer will see first-hand that all dust, debris and grime has been removed. But be prepared to pay a price! This system is very time consuming so the duct cleaning tech will not be able to visit as many customers per day. Typically, the duct cleaning tech will come out and give you a bid. You might should talk over at what point it is better to just replace the old heating and cooling ducts with new!

High-Pressure Air -sweep
The air-wash method is quick and affordable. But will it be vigorous enough in removing indoor air pollution? Most likely not. What if a person has a newer home with new duct work which still has factory-processing oils inside it? On the other hand, if the homeowner just had your air ducts cleaned last year, it might not be necessary to have such a elaborate job done this time. These are questions only you the customer might answer. If you the customer are an extremely tidy person (have you been called a clean freak before?) the homeowner might be most satisfied with the camera method. Or, if the heating and cooling ducts was recently cleaned, the homeowner might want to choose the high-pressure air-wash method. Most people in general are somewhere in the middle. If the company you the customer hire is ethical and you might trust the duct cleaning tech to do a good job, you the customer might should mull over using the brush cleaning system (minus the camera) first. Later, once all the heating and cooling ducts have been cleared out, you the customer might revert to the more economical air-wash method.

Assuredly, brushing your heating and cooling ducts out, with or without a camera, or merely using the high-pressure air-wash method is better and healthier for you and your family than doing nothing at all. Either way, you will sleep better, knowing that decaying pet and rodent hair and discharge will not be floating around your residence. Like people often say; 'If it's in the air, it will soon be in your lungs'.

Air Duct Cleaning - Will it be Beneficial Or Not?

As the owner and air duct cleaning technician of a professional Duct Cleaning business, I am often asked why the prices differ so much amongst all the Duct Cleaning companies in my region, consumers wonder why one Duct cleaning company (well call company A) will charge $200. Air duct cleaning entails using an air cleaning device to remove unwanted pollutants and other elements from the air.

There are many companies that are marketing products and services to take care of your indoor pollution. When air ducts become contaminated and congested, they should be cleaned so your heating and cooling system can 'breathe' normally and efficiently. Many companies are marketing products and services in an attempt to help improve indoor air quality.

Following are FACTS that have been determined by recognized authorities in the fields of health and air quality:
-Children and the Elderly are most effected by indoor air pollution and will benefit greatly from the clean air that exits from this filter.
-One out of six people who suffer from allergies do so because of the direct relationship to fungi and bacteria in air duct systems.
-Children and the elderly are especially affected by polluted indoor air.

In light of these facts, you may want to ask yourself a few questions:
-Does anyone in the house have allergies, asthma, or other respiratory problems?
-Is there a smoker in the house?
-Do you notice 'musty' or 'stale' odors when the furnace runs?
As the conditions are different in every home, hence it is difficult to generalize about whether or not air duct cleaning in your home would be beneficial. But, if you answered yes to any of the questions mentioned above, then it might be time to have your air ducts cleaned.

Do you or does someone in you home suffer from allergies? There are several tools at the allergy sufferers disposal to help, but some of the most effective are air purifiers that can help scrub the air of allergic compounds and remove the allergy causing contaminants. Air duct filters are another way that allergy sufferers can begin to take back their life and break free from from allergy symptoms.

Here are just a few things which can effect the air you breathe:
There are numerous occupants in the home
Combustion sources such as oil, gas, kerosene, coal, and wood are not only a potential fire hazard, they can also adversely affect the air you breathe.
Inadequate cleaning practices

But wait, there are things you can do to improve the quality of your air. Cleaning products used in the home, as well as interior furnishings, should be low VOC (volatile organic compounds) emitters, with emissions, sometimes improperly called off-gassing, that dissipate quickly. If possible, a portable unit should be placed as close as possible to any known pollutant point, example, close to a pets sleeping area.

In addition to air duct cleaning, you may want to think about filtration. Electrostatic filters are environmentally friendly. They are a lifetime filter, so you will no longer have to toss out disposable filters every month (our environment will love you for it). Air duct filters are very easy to install and yet very effective.

There are many ways to clean the air, so be sure to research the different methods as this will help in making a more informed decision. So, be careful before you invest and look for a trained and licensed service provider for Duct Cleaning.

How might anyone be sure they have employed the correct air duct cleaning tech?

With primarily three different techniques used to clean the ductwork in your house and prices fluctuating from $59 to $800, you want to be well informed prior to contacting air duct cleaning techs.

So how come there is such a wide range in prices? The answer lies somewhere the middle customer preferences and business marketing methods. For example, a person who is a very clean person that has just bought an old home from a party that had several pets, may not be as concerned with the price. However, someone that just wants to get their ductwork cleaned because his or her friend just had it done, might only prefer to pay a minimal amount. air duct cleaning techs know this and will base their marketing around it.

So what are the different systems which air duct cleaning techs use? The most well-recognized systems include:

- Rotary vacuum/cleaning, with camera
- Rotary vacuum/cleaning
- High-pressure air sweeping

Rotary vacuum sweeping
If you the customer or a person in your house suffers from severe allergies, the homeowner might prefer the assurance which using the camera might give you the customer. The homeowner will be assured that all dust, debris and grime has been removed. But be prepared to have your checkbook ready! This system is very tedious so the air duct cleaning tech will not be able to visit as many customers per day. Typically, the air duct cleaning tech will come out and give the homeowner a bid. You the customer might should mull over at what point it is better to just replace the old ductwork with new!

High-Pressure Air -sweep
The air-wash system is quick and affordable. But will it be powerful enough in removing debri? Probably not. What if a person has a newer home with new duct work which still has factory-processing oils inside it? On the other hand, if you just had your air ducts cleaned last year, it might not be compelling to have such a detailed job done this time. These are questions only the homeowner might answer. If the homeowner are an extremely tidy person (have you been called a neat freak before?) you the customer might be most happy with the camera system. Or, if the ductwork was recently cleaned, the homeowner might want to go with the high-pressure air-wash system. Most people are somewhere in the middle. If the company you the customer hire is trustworthy and the homeowner can trust the air duct cleaning tech to do a good job, you the customer might should reason using the brush cleaning system (minus the camera) first. Later, once all the ductwork have been cleaned out, you might interchange to the lesser priced air-wash system.

At any rate, brushing your ductwork out, with or without a camera, or at least using the high-pressure air-wash system is better and healthier for you the customer and your household than doing nothing at all. Either way, you the customer will find comfort, knowing that decaying pet and rodent hair and discharge will not be blowing around your dwelling. Like the old saying goes; 'If it's in the air, it will soon be in your lungs'.

If you live in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and are looking for an air duct cleaning tech, you minght want to talk to the folks at CleanMyFurnace.com

How long will our $109.95 "Whole House" special on air duct cleaning last?

We have been running our air duct cleaning "whole house" special at $109.95 since Fall 2006. Everyone is wondering how long it will last. I have spoken with the owner and he will only say that the special will run until our air duct cleaners are not able to keep up. At that point he will raise the price to the normal price of $289.95.

While he was not very specific on when that might be, I am projecting late spring or early summer. We have added a new truck to our fleet and will need to fill the routes a little more. Once the routes are starting to fill.....the "whole house" air duct cleaning special will end.

Please do not be discouraged though. Even if you pay our normal air duct cleaning price, you are still getting a GREAT deal. Our normal price of $289.95 is comparable (we think superior) to our competitors price of $400 - $800!

Why do we charge so much less for air duct cleaning? Simple, we are not trying to make a living cleaning air ducts! We are a full service HVAC company first, and air duct cleaners second. We service, design and install furnaces, air conditioners, humidifiers and so much more. Air duct cleaning is an "add-on" service we provide for our customers. We do not want our customers hiring sub-standard air duct cleaners. If they need air duct cleaning, we want our customers to be treated fairly, not fraudulently.

To learn more about air duct cleaning please visit us on the web at www.cleanmyfurnace.com.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): What You Cannot Even See, CAN Harm You!

The air duct layout and design in a typical family residence, acts as it's respiratory system or breathing system. Dust, dirt, debris, pollen and microbial growth which store up inside of air ducts, hidden from view, point-blank "block up" the ductwork and make it complicated for the house or facility to "breath" properly and work correctly. As it just so happens, a 1987 ASHRAE study concluded that maintaining ductwork cleanliness would scale down average operating costs by a whopping 10 to 25 percent!

More than 70 percent of all Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) concerns involve the entire Hvac layout and design. Unclean air ducts are a perfect hatchery for mold spores, mildew, bacteria (including Legionella) and other health threatening microbial growth. Unclean ductwork can also be responsible for higher energy bills, relieved air supply and early breakdown of pricey Heating and air conditioning parts.

Here are some harmful things that could be in your air ducts:


FUNGI
One out of six folks who suffer with watery-eyes and runny-noses from allergies, do so because of the direct relationship to fungi and bacteria in air duct compositions. (Total Health and Better Health Magazines)

POLLEN
Many folks feel ill from allergies due to pollen. Pollen is being re-circulated from your air ducts back into your home.


BACTERIA
"Bacteria referred to as pathogens can induce a swarm of plant and animal diseases."

DUST MITES
42,000 dust mites can be linked to a single ounce (yes, 1oz!!!) of dust. Strange as it may seem, it isn't the dust mites themselves that affect most folks; it is the dust mite feces and the fungus and bacteria that feed on this decaying organic matter.

Learn more about Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) by visiting www.cleanmyfurnace.com