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Duct cleaning has never been shown to actually
prevent health problems.
Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle
(e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air
ducts or go down after cleaning. This is because much of the
dirt that may accumulate inside air ducts adheres to duct
surfaces and does not necessarily enter the living space.
Other Important Considerations...
It is important to keep in mind that dirty air ducts are
only one of many possible sources of particles that are present
in homes. Pollutants that enter the home both from outdoors
and indoor activities such as cooking, cleaning, smoking,
or just moving around can cause greater exposure to contaminants
than dirty air ducts. Moreover, there is no evidence that
a light amount of household dust or other particulate matter
in air ducts poses any risk to health.
EPA does not recommend that air ducts be cleaned except
on an as-needed basis because of the continuing uncertainty
about the benefits of duct cleaning under most circumstances.
If a service provider or advertiser asserts that EPA recommends
routine duct cleaning or makes claims about its health benefits,
you should notify EPA by writing to the address listed at
the end of this guidance. EPA does, however, recommend that
if you have a fuel burning furnace, stove, or fireplace, they
be inspected for proper functioning and serviced before each
heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.
Some research also suggests that cleaning dirty cooling coils,
fans and heat exchangers can improve the efficiency of heating
and cooling systems. However, little evidence exists to indicate
that simply cleaning the duct system will increase your system's
efficiency.
If you think duct cleaning might be a good idea for your
home, but you are not sure, talk to a professional. The
company that services your heating and cooling system may
be a good source of advice. You may also want to contact professional
duct cleaning service providers and ask them about the services
they provide. Remember, they are trying to sell you a service,
so ask questions and insist on complete and knowledgeable
answers.
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