If your home has a furnace that distributes heat through a metal ductwork system, you will periodically need to make sure that ducts are clean and not blowing debris back into the air circulation. Over time, metal ductwork can collect dust and dirt and will need to be properly cleaned to ensure that the debris is not making it’s way into you or your family’s lungs. Also, heavy amount of dirt and dust will cause your furnace to run extra hard and for a longer period of time, raising your energy bills and potentially damaging your furnace.

Cleaning overly dirty ducts will significantly improve your indoor air quality and will reduce the amount of allergens and molds in the air. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Asthmatics can be very sensitive to airborne contaminates and dust. If you’re ductwork is dirty and pushing the dust and debris into the household air, a thorough cleaning should alleviate some of the symptoms from sensitive people.

A good indication of when your ducts need to be cleaned is when you are constantly seeing the presence of dust in your house. If you remove the dust from a table or piece of furniture and minutes later find that it is again covered in dust, it is most often an indication that your ducts are dirty and need to be cleaned. Another way to determine that you ducts need some attention is by physically feeling the amount of air that the vents are putting out. If the airflow is faint, you may have significant blocking of the ducts.

Air duct cleaning contractors can use different methods to remove the dust from the your ductwork. Rotary vacuum brushing and high-pressure air washing are two of the ways to get your ducts clean. The rotary vacuum brushing is a time consuming and thorough process, usually used on ducts that have been neglected for years or are extremely dirty. Some rotary vacuum brushing systems employ the use of a camera to make sure all trouble spots are completely cleaned. High-pressure air washing is takes less time and is more affordable. This method is good for routine cleanings and removing dust and debris from ductwork that has had cleanings in the past. It is not the most effective way to remove caked on dirt and grime, but is great for routine maintenance and ensuring the ductwork stays clean. If you have a particularly dirty ductwork system, I recommend having a rotary vacuum brushing first, then you can use the less expensive high pressure air washing annually to keep it clean.

Cleaning your ducts will ensure that the air that you and your family breathe is of the best quality and not contaminated with allergens and mold. Be sure to have a heating and cooling system inspection at least once a year to ensure your furnace is running properly and have your ducts cleaned. Usually, a duct cleaning is done at the beginning of the winter season, but it can be done more often to make sure that very little dust enters the air.

Learn more about Air Duct Cleaning from A-1 Ductworks in Fort McMurray Alberta – contact us today!

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This is a re-print of an article by Power Vac America

We all know there is a relationship between a well maintained HVAC system, the pressure drop and energy savings, but we haven’t had the scientific proof to show our customers.

I am pleased to announce that the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) has engaged a team of researchers from the University of Colorado to undertake a two-year study titled “The Correlation between HVAC System Pressure Drop and Energy Savings.” This project was started in February 2008 and will run through January 2010.

The purpose is to develop a relatively simple method for field technicians to estimate the energy savings that can be attained through HVAC maintenance and restoration and publish the results of the research to generate greater awareness of the energy-saving benefits of HVAC maintenance and restoration.

The research study will be carried out in a collaborative effort with faculty members of the Building Systems Program – Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, at the University of Colorado. Both Professor John Zhai, Ph.D. and Professor Moncref Krarit, Ph.D., P.E., have done extensive research for the US Department of Energy and are considered experts in the field of HVAC energy consumption.

According to Prof. Zhai,:

• Among various HVAC system problems, dust accumulation can cause a dramatic reduction in supply air.
• Studies indicate that reduction of system pressure drop offers the greatest potential for energy savings in a ventilation system (e.g. estimated 30 to 65% potential ventilation energy savings).
• Experience shows that dirt accumulation in HVAC systems will result in significant pressure reduction and thus require extra fan power and energy consumption.
• To date, no scientific evaluation based on rigorous and verifiable analysis is available to quantify the influence of HVAC pressure drop on system energy usage.

This research project will be the first study of it’s kind to verify the energy savings associated with system pressure drop and the first scientific study performed that will verify the services our members perform will positively affect HVAC systems by reducing energy consumption!

The researchers from the University of Colorado will use two advanced experiment and simulation labs:

• The Larson Building Systems Lab – Unique facility, permits the study of entire HVAC systems and full-scale test rooms in a controlled, dynamic environment; Consists of a full-size commercial HVAC system with four zones.
• The Advanced Building and Environment Simulation Technology Lab – Designed for real-time data monitoring. Set up for climate analysis, building energy simulation, airflow and contaminant transport modeling, etc. Used for computer simulation

This research will be conducted in four phases, over a period of two years:

• Computer Simulation Analysis (6 month) • Lab Experimental Analysis (6 months)
• Field Monitoring Analysis (1 year)
• Guidelines and Analysis for Post-project Field Tests (optional)

Project Deliverables and main objectives include:

• A complete set of data modeling and experimental data; • A final written report, with complete research details;
• A testing protocol for use to measure pressure drop and demonstrate energy savings attributed to increased airflow (i.e., increased pressure) resulting from system maintenance and restoration;
• The project team will disseminate the project findings, in conference papers, professional magazines, and journal articles, to building energy and system researchers and professionals in the field.
• A practical engineering tool that combines the established correlations and the testing protocol into an easy-to-use spreadsheet program, which will allow field engineers to quickly estimate energy savings associated with system restoration;

Once the study is completed, training programs on how to take the measurements and use the energy calculators will be developed.

This is the biggest and most exciting project that NADCA has ever undertaken.

SaskEnergy, along with participating SaskEnergy Network Members and SaskPower continue to offer energy efficiency programs to help customers save money on their energy bills.

The Energy Star Prime Rate Loan Program and a $15 Programmable Thermostat Rebate were available as of Aug. 1, and will continue through until March 31, 2010. These programs are designed for consumers who are upgrading their heating and cooling equipment within their homes through the purchase of a natural gas furnace, air conditioner or natural gas appliance.

The Energy Star Loan Programs offers convenient in-store financing (OAC) at prime plus two per cent through participating SaskEnergy Network Members on qualifying equipment.

New to the loan program this year is the option for customers to finance a central air conditioning system at the same time when installing a qualifying Energy Star furnace. By upgrading to a high efficiency furnace customers can save over 30 per cent a year on their heating costs. Plus, they will reduce their household greenhouse gas emissions by 4.1 tonnes per year.

The Programmable Thermostat Rebate provides SaskEnergy customers a $15 incentive to purchase a thermostat that can automatically turn down the temperature at night or during the day when no one is home. Customers can save up to two per cent on their heating bills for every one degree Celsius they turn down their thermostat at night and when they aren’t at home. To ensure that

heating equipment continues to operate properly and efficiently, SaskEnergy recommends that customers purchase and have their programmable thermostat professionally installed by a SaskEnergy Network Member.

“If you have been considering the replacement of your home heating and cooling system, this is the year to do it. Incentive programs, offered both provincially and federally are available to assist homeowners with their upgrades. For example, you can receive up to $1,420 in grants for upgrading your furnace. With these initiatives, customers can save hundreds of dollars on their upgrades and know that they are reducing their environmental footprint at the same time,” explains Linda Lawrence, Manager, Customer Solutions, SaskEnergy.

In addition to the Energy Star Loan Program and the Programmable Thermostat Rebate customers can also participate in the Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses Retrofit Grant Program, the federal Home Renovation Tax Credit (www.cra.gc.ca) and PST exemption on qualifying ENERGY STAR equipment.

For additional details about the loan program or to find out about other energy efficiency initiatives, visit www.saskenergy.com or contact your local SaskEnergy Network Member.

The old adage “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” should not apply when it comes to your household heating system. Like a car, your furnace is a running machine that needs regular tune-ups to ensure its efficiency and longevity. You wouldn’t wait more than a year to give your car an oil change, so don’t wait until your furnace breaks down to call for service.

A clean, well-adjusted heating system will save you money on fuel and will prolong furnace life. The cost of annual servicing is modest, especially when compared with the price of a new furnace.

There is some maintenance that homeowners can undertake themselves, such as the cleaning and replacing of filters. To ensure safe and efficient operation

of a heating system, however, homeowners should have their furnace inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified service technician.

Homeowners searching for a qualified heating contractor in their area can access a user-friendly website -www.hrai.ca or toll-free at 1-877-467-HRAI.

This site lists contractor members of the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Instituted of Canada (HRAI), a national trade association.

Inspections performed by a licensed technician will include the following:

- Safety test for carbon monoxide (CO)

- Check for hazardous debris in the chimney flue

- Check operations of thermostat and safety controls

- Check gas pilot safety system and clean as required

DUCTZ, the nation’s largest air duct cleaning and HVAC restoration franchise organization, is doing its part to raise awareness of how indoor mold and mycotoxins can adversely affect health as part of National Indoor Toxic Mold Awareness Month from September 5, 2009 through October 5, 2009.

“National Indoor Toxic Mold Awareness Month is a great opportunity for people to learn more about the dangers and hazards that can come from mold inside air ventilation systems,” said John Rotche, President of DUCTZ. “We are helping to spread the word about the adverse affects of poor indoor air quality and also aid in the prevention of the growth of indoor mold.”

According to Tom Yacobellis, Vice President of Corporate Operations, “Indoor mold can create a variety of respiratory and health problems including chronic asthma, allergies, respiratory inflammation and other serious lung illnesses. HVAC system cleanings can help alleviate these symptoms while enhancing indoor air quality and ensuring that air systems deliver clean, fresh air.”

“The negative health effects of mycotoxins are a function of the concentration, the duration of exposure and person’s general health and sensitivities. It is imperative that good moisture controls and ventilation systems within residential homes and other buildings are put in place and evaluated as needed, helping to limit potential health risks,” said Yacobellis.

Specialized certifications are necessary for working within residential and commercial industries to optimize ventilation systems and improve indoor air quality. DUCTZ professionals that hold a National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) Ventilation System Mold Remediator (VSMR) certification undergo specific training that ensures an understanding of microbiological contamination, project assessment, and how to apply NADCA and other industry standards. Every DUCTZ professional undergoing the VSMR certification must be Air System Cleaning Specialist (ASCS) certified. The ASCS certification by NADCA signifies a high level of professionalism in the cleaning and restoration industry. Through certification, trained personnel demonstrate requisite knowledge of HVAC system cleaning, NADCA standards, and OSHA regulations. By passing a rigorous certification examination, DUCTZ professionals achieve a reputation of reliability and competence.

DUCTZ provides a number of specialized ‘green’ and energy efficient services for commercial and residential customers, including a patented air duct cleanliness treatment, UV lighting, high capacity filtration and dryer vent cleaning. DUCTZ is an approved Energy Star service provider, assuring that cleaning processes meet the strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy for the Energy Star program.

“There are many benefits to keeping your HVAC system optimized,” said Tom Yacobellis, Vice President of Corporate Operations. “National Indoor Toxic Mold Awareness Month gives us a great opportunity to educate people who otherwise may never have known the dangers of poor indoor air quality.”

About DUCTZ

DUCTZ is the nation’s largest air duct cleaning and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) restoration company. DUCTZ is an Energy Star partner, helping homeowners and businesses to save money by optimizing HVAC system efficiency through cleaning and restoration. DUCTZ also provides microbial maintenance controls and chemical-free processes for reducing biological contaminants. DUCTZ is a member of the National Air Duct Cleaner’s Association (NADCA), Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) and Air Conditioning Contractors Association (ACCA), leading industry standards. DUCTZ was featured on cable television’s show Designing Spaces, and in Entrepreneur magazine’s January 2009 issue, was ranked #1 in its category and in the upper half of the Top 500 Franchises in the United States. For more information, visit www.ductz.com.

I broke down and turned on the furnace for the first time this week and it made me think about all the chores — besides tuning up the furnace — that come with the arrival of cooler weather: winterizing sprinkler systems, applying weatherstripping, cleaning chimneys, washing windows, patching driveways, raking leaves, cleaning out rain gutters, installing energy-efficient doors and windows, fixing leaky roofs, redoing or adding to the landscape, and maybe even adding on to the house.

If you already know who to call, then you’re one step ahead of the game. But if you’ve never had to outsource fall jobs before or if you’re new to town, then you’ll want to find reliable businesses you can trust.

Start by asking friends, family and colleagues for recommendations. You also check the BBB for names of accredited businesses. You can skip asking for recommendations all together and use BBB eQuote to get bids and information from reliable businesses.

After you gather at least three potential businesses to contact, your next step is to check out their BBB Reliability Reports. The BBB’s database — easy to access online at wynco.bbb.org — includes 14,000 businesses in northern Colorado and greater Wyoming. Of those, about 4,100 are BBB Accredited, which means they’re trustworthy businesses that pledge to uphold high ethical standards.

Your second step is to check references. Call them and ask detailed questions about the work they had done. If feasible, ask if you can see the finished project. Ask them if they would hire the contractor again.

Now it’s time to take matters into your own hands. The following list of questions should be asked of all businesses you consider hiring for home projects big or small:

• How long has the company been in business and where is it located? Answers to this question will separate those who live and work in the community from those who travel town to town, state to state — they’re known as “travelers” — in search of work.

• Is the business bonded and insured? Does it have proper business licenses? Ask to see papers verifying this.

• What about warranties? Find out what kind of warranties are provided on both the work and materials. Keep good records so you’re prepared for any problems down the line.

• Does the business have its own crew? Or does it rely on subcontractors? Make sure that you know who the onsite supervisor is for your project. What is the person’s experience? Will they speak and make decisions for the business owner in his or her absence?

• Project timetable? Ask when the job will start and when it will be completed. Ask to have the timetable included in the contract. While you want to remain flexible, oftentimes flexibility turns into delays.

• What will the project cost? Ask for an itemized proposal that includes type of materials so that you can compare apples to apples. Find out the type of payment plan that’s expected and if a deposit is required. The BBB advises that you not pay in cash and that you don’t pay the entire amount upfront.

For more consumer information or to check out the BBBlog, visit wynco.bbb.org or call (970) 484-1348 or (800) 564-0371.