May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. Here’s How Air Duct Cleaning Can Help.5/11/2023 The Relationship Between Allergies, Asthma, and Air Duct Cleaning
May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, and what better time to talk about the relationship between allergies, Asthma, and air duct cleaning? Many people who suffer from allergies also have Asthma, and for them, air duct cleaning can be a lifesaver. Asthma is a chronic lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. The airways of people with Asthma are inflamed and sensitive, and they can be triggered by a variety of things, including dust, mold, pollen, and pet dander. Allergies are a common trigger for asthma attacks and can also worsen asthma symptoms. If you have allergies and Asthma, it’s essential to do everything you can to reduce your exposure to allergens. One way to do this is to have your air ducts cleaned. How Can Air Duct Cleaning Improve Allergy and Asthma Symptoms? A growing body of evidence suggests that air duct cleaning can improve allergy and asthma symptoms. When allergens, such as dust, pet dander, and mold, are eliminated from the air ducts, the air that circulates through a building is more likely to be clean and free of allergens. Air duct cleaning involves the use of state-of-the-art cleaning systems to remove any dirt, mold, or other debris that has built up in the air ducts. This can help reduce the number of allergens in a facility, improving the indoor air quality for employees, tenants and customers. In addition, a professional cleaning service can use special treatments, such as sanitizers, to remove any microbial growth that may have accumulated in the air ducts. This can further reduce the amount of allergens present in the air and improve symptoms of allergies and Asthma. Selecting a Commercial Air Duct Cleaning Service When it comes to air duct cleaning, choosing the right business to work with is critical. Duct Dynasty has served Central Florida for over 20 years as a leading commercial air duct cleaning specialist and NADCA-certified firm. NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) is responsible for defining elite, industry standards, ensuring only the highest quality of service. When selecting the right business for the job, always select a NADCA-certified firm. How Often Should Commercial Air Ducts Be Cleaned? Commercial air ducts should be cleaned regularly to help reduce the amount of allergens and contaminants in the air. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), air ducts should be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis or when there is visible mold growth. Additionally, the EPA recommends that facility owners should have their air ducts cleaned if: - They are undergoing renovations or remodeling. - They notice an excessive accumulation of dust and dirt in the air ducts. - They notice an increase in allergy flare-ups or other types of respiratory issues. It is important to remember that air duct cleaning can be a tedious process, so it is best to hire a professional air duct cleaning service to do the job. They will have the right equipment and techniques to thoroughly clean the air ducts, ensuring that the entire system is free of contaminants. Key Takeaways: Allergies, Asthma, and Air Duct Cleaning Allergies, Asthma, and air duct cleaning don’t always go hand in hand, but each season brings its potential for allergen exposure in your workplace. National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity to take note of the potential health risks in your living and working environment. Here are some key takeaways from today’s discussion on air duct cleaning: 1. Air ducts should be inspected and cleaned regularly to help reduce the amount of allergens and contaminants in the air. 2. It is recommended to hire a professional air duct cleaning service if you are remodeling, noticing an excessive accumulation of dust, or having more frequent allergy flare-ups. 3. Taking proactive measures such as changing your air filters regularly and having your air ducts cleaned can help improve the air quality in your workplace, thus reducing the potential exposure to airborne allergens. 4. National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month is a great reminder to take a look at allergies and asthma risks in your environment and make changes for the better. Duct Dynasty specializes in commercial air duct cleaning services for healthcare facilities. At Duct Dynasty, our technicians eliminate debris, allergens, and harmful pollutants to keep indoor air quality clean. Our NADCA-certified services will drastically improve the quality of your air, the cleanliness of your healthcare facility, and the effectiveness of your commercial HVAC system. We proudly serve healthcare facilities across Central Florida, Tampa, and Ft. Myers areas to provide clean air and ensure healthy indoor air quality for their facility, employees, and patients. To learn more about our commercial air duct cleaning services or schedule your service, contact Duct Dynasty today!
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Understanding Seasonal Allergies and Their Causes Seasonal allergies are a common issue for millions of people around the world. Allergies are caused by the immune system overreacting to a typically harmless substance, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. When someone with allergies comes into contact with these substances, their body releases histamine, which triggers symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion. Seasonal allergies are particularly problematic because they are caused by pollen and other allergens that are only present during certain times of the year. In the spring, for example, trees and flowers release pollen into the air, which can trigger allergies in many people. In the fall, ragweed is a common allergen that can cause symptoms like sneezing and itching. The Role of Air Ducts in Indoor Air Quality Your building's HVAC system plays a critical role in maintaining indoor air quality. The system circulates air throughout your facility, passing through the ductwork to reach each room. Anything present in your ducts - including dust, pollen, and other allergens - will be distributed throughout. Over time, this can lead to a buildup of contaminants in your ducts, reducing indoor air quality and triggering allergy symptoms. This is particularly problematic for people who suffer from seasonal allergies, as the allergens present in the air ducts can exacerbate their symptoms. Common Allergens Found in Air Ducts There is a wide range of allergens that can be present in your air ducts, including:
The Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning for Allergy Sufferers One of the most significant benefits of air duct cleaning is improved indoor air quality. By removing built-up dust, pollen, and other contaminants from your ducts, you can reduce the amount of allergens present in the air and alleviate allergy symptoms. In addition to improving indoor air quality, air duct cleaning can also increase the efficiency of your HVAC system. When your ducts are clogged with dust and debris, your system has to work harder to circulate air throughout your building. This can lead to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for your equipment. By cleaning your ducts, you can improve the efficiency of your system and save money on your energy bills in the long run. How Air Duct Cleaning Can Improve HVAC System Efficiency There are several ways that air duct cleaning can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. First, by removing built-up dust and debris from your ducts, your system can circulate air more efficiently. This means that your system won't have to work as hard, which can reduce energy consumption and lower your utility bills. Second, cleaning your ducts can reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system. When your system has to work harder to circulate air, it puts additional strain on your equipment. Over time, this can lead to breakdowns and the need for expensive repairs. By cleaning your ducts regularly, you can extend the lifespan of your equipment and avoid costly repairs. Signs That Your Air Ducts May Need Cleaning There are a few signs that your air ducts may need cleaning, including:
Choosing a Reputable Air Duct Cleaning Company When choosing an air duct cleaning company, it's essential to do your research and choose a reputable company with a track record of success. Look for licensed and insured companies, and read online reviews to get a sense of their reputation. In addition, make sure to ask about the company's cleaning process and equipment. A reputable company will use specialized equipment to clean your ducts, and they will be able to explain their process in detail. Maintaining Clean Air Ducts Year-Round Once your air ducts have been cleaned, it's essential to take steps to maintain clean ducts year-round. This can include:
Conclusion: Enjoying a Breath of Fresh Air with Air Duct Cleaning If you suffer from seasonal allergies or simply want to improve the air quality of your facility, air duct cleaning is a great option. By removing built-up dust, pollen, and other contaminants from your ducts, you can breathe easier and reduce the impact of allergy symptoms. In addition, air duct cleaning can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, leading to lower energy bills and a longer lifespan for your equipment. So why wait? Schedule an air duct cleaning today and enjoy a breath of fresh air in your facility. Duct Dynasty specializes in commercial air duct cleaning services for healthcare facilities. At Duct Dynasty, our technicians eliminate debris, allergens, and harmful pollutants to keep indoor air quality clean. Our NADCA-certified services will drastically improve the quality of your air, the cleanliness of your healthcare facility, and the effectiveness of your commercial HVAC system. We proudly serve healthcare facilities across Central Florida, Tampa, and Ft. Myers areas to provide clean air and ensure healthy indoor air quality for their facility, employees, and patients. To learn more about our commercial air duct cleaning services or schedule your service, contact Duct Dynasty today!  Maintaining a clean and safe environment is essential in any healthcare facility. Commercial air duct cleaning and sanitization are crucial parts of this process. A properly cleaned air duct system helps to improve air quality and reduce the risk of infections or disease transmission within the facility. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of commercial air duct cleaning for healthcare facilities and how it can help to ensure a healthy and safe environment. The Dangers of Poor Indoor Air Quality Poor indoor air quality is a significant concern for healthcare facilities due to the potential health risks associated with airborne contaminants. Airborne contaminants such as mold, dust mites, bacteria, viruses, and other allergens can build up in a facility’s air duct system and spread throughout the building. In addition, if the air duct system is not properly maintained, it can lead to decreased air circulation, allowing contaminants to build up more quickly. The health risks associated with poor indoor air quality can range from mild to severe, depending on the type and amount of contaminants in the air. These health risks include respiratory issues, fatigue, headaches, and allergic reactions. In extreme cases, poor indoor air quality can lead to more severe illnesses such as asthma or other chronic conditions. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your facility’s air duct system is properly maintained and cleaned regularly to reduce the risk of poor indoor air quality. The benefits of Commercial Air Duct Cleaning Commercial air duct cleaning can help reduce the spread of airborne illnesses by removing dust, dirt, allergens, bacteria, fungi, and other contaminants from the air. Hidden contaminants found in dirty air ducts are critical to the health and safety of any occupant; however, they are even more hazardous in healthcare facilities, where occupants are often patients with compromised immune systems. Additionally, it helps reduce the number of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that can be present in the air. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases that are given off by many indoor sources, such as building materials and cleaning agents. According to the EPA, concentrations of the most volatile organic compounds are 2 to 5 times higher indoors than outdoors. Part of this risk in high-VOCs is the development of modern building materials, like insulation, paints, and lacquers. VOCs include a variety of chemicals that can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, shortness of breath, headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and skin problems. Higher concentrations may irritate the lungs and damage the liver, kidney, or central nervous system. Long-term exposure may also cause damage to the liver, kidneys or central nervous system. The Importance of Air Duct Sanitization Air ducts are the pathways that circulate air throughout a facility. However, it’s not uncommon for these ducts to accumulate dust, debris, and other contaminants over time, which can negatively affect indoor air quality, making air duct sanitization a crucial part of your ongoing facility maintenance. Air duct sanitization is a deep cleaning process that targets all areas of the ducts, including walls, ceiling, and flooring. It involves using special equipment and solutions to sanitize the air ducts and reduce the buildup of pollutants, ensuring indoor air quality remains clean and free from harmful contaminants. Sanitizing your air ducts is also essential for controlling the spread of bacteria and other germs through professional anti-microbial treatments. In healthcare facilities, there is always a risk of infection, so it’s essential to take all necessary steps to prevent the spread of germs and keep everyone safe. Sanitizing the air ducts can help to reduce the risk of contamination in your facility. Commercial air duct cleaning services for healthcare facilities are essential. Professional air duct cleaning promotes clean, safe, and healthy air. In healthcare settings, like hospitals, doctors’ offices, nursing homes, and other medical care facilities, contaminated air can be harmful and cause respiratory problems for patients, visitors, and medical staff. Duct Dynasty specializes in commercial air duct cleaning services for healthcare facilities. At Duct Dynasty, our technicians eliminate debris, allergens, and harmful pollutants to keep indoor air quality clean. Our NADCA-certified services will drastically improve the quality of your air, the cleanliness of your healthcare facility, and the effectiveness of your commercial HVAC system. We proudly serve healthcare facilities across Central Florida, Tampa, and Ft. Myers areas to provide clean air and ensure healthy indoor air quality for their facility, employees, and patients. To learn more about our commercial air duct cleaning services or schedule your service, contact Duct Dynasty today!  Despite routinely replacing filters, your facility's air ducts and HVAC system get dirty with regular everyday use. Contaminants and air pollutants fill the dust and dirt hiding in your air ducts and can harm your indoor air quality and cause your heating and cooling system to work harder. All that hard work increases your energy bills and can significantly shorten your HVAC system's lifespan. Like any other equipment, your HVAC system will perform better with regular maintenance. Air duct cleaning is just one of the services to consider if you want to ensure longevity for your entire HVAC system. While regular cleaning and maintenance are vital to maintaining the efficiency and life span of your equipment, there are some critical times air duct cleaning is crucial to the health and operation of your facility. Here are four reasons you need to schedule your commercial air duct cleaning:
I. Post Construction or Renovation Routinely cleaning your ducts is essential. However, it's even more critical if your building has recently undergone construction. During any construction or renovation project, dust and debris are released into the air, making it imperative to have air ducts professionally cleaned to ensure that the buildup does not compromise the HVAC system. Whether your HVAC system is idle or running during construction, dust and debris collect inside the ducts and air intakes. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 daily. Over time, this re-circulation causes a buildup of pollutants in the ductwork. New construction and remodeling projects inevitably generate large amounts of dust and particulates from activities like sawing, sanding, and drywalling. These airborne particulates can travel through the air and are drawn into the ducts and mechanical equipment of the building's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, even if the system is not running. Inhaling foreign particles can lead to health issues down the road. Wood dust, for example, if inhaled excessively, can lead to occupational asthma or even lung cancer. Examples of other harmful airborne contaminants include silica, asbestos, lead, carbon monoxide, toluene, and more. Setting aside the dangerous types of debris specific to construction, you also have to worry about everyday dust and debris. Clogged filters also strain your equipment and can lead to premature failure if you don't clean or replace the filters to allow optimal air exchange. II. Damage Remediation HVAC system components subjected to catastrophic events such as fire, smoke, or water damage will be subject to restoration procedures when feasible. Component degradation that results in compromised system performance must be corrected through restoration procedures as soon as possible. Restoring your building after a fire can be a daunting and stressful experience. Even if a fire does not destroy the structure, smoke and soot can get into your ductwork, causing damage and a lingering odor unless adequately cleaned and restored. Soot is acidic and can cause further damage and air quality issues if not removed soon after a fire. We will professionally clean and remove the soot from carpets, walls, ceilings, HVAC units, and air ducts. Fire and water damage go hand-in-hand, as your property has likely sustained water damage from sprinklers and hoses used in the fire-fighting process. Complete water removal is essential to prevent secondary damage or mold growth. III. Mold Growth Whether from the previous water damage example or due to environmental moisture, chances are mold is hiding in your air ducts. Mold grows from elevated moisture levels in as little as 48-72 hours, and, unfortunately, once it starts to grow, it has to be removed in a controlled fashion. The only answer is mold remediation or removal. Growing mold releases microscopic spores, tiny little seeds that drift in the air, causing exacerbated allergies and respiratory problems. Your heating and cooling system can develop condensation that leads to mold growth in your ductwork, especially in Florida's humid climate. You may spot mold around your vent covers. Still, unfortunately, many components of your heating and cooling system aren't easily accessible or visible, so mold in your air ducts is tough to detect. However, while mold can be difficult to see, it usually presents itself in the form of a musty odor. Regular air duct cleaning and HVAC maintenance ensure the routine inspection of the system to identify concealed mold growth and take the proper steps to remedy the issue. Professional air duct decontamination and mold remediation are the only answers for complete mold removal and to ensure healthy indoor air quality of your building. IV. Higher Energy Costs Your heating and cooling costs should be relatively predictable from year to year. Dirty ductwork might be to blame if you receive a noticeably high bill, especially compared to the same time a year ago. Ductwork can become so dirty that air cannot flow freely and efficiently through your building's HVAC system. When this happens, your furnace and air conditioner work much harder than usual to maintain a comfortable temperature. This added energy expenditure means higher utility bills for your facility. You also may notice an inconsistency with airflow or cooling throughout your building. In most cases, fully open vents should deliver consistent airflow from room to room. Inconsistency could be the result of dirty air ducts. It is worth noting that it isn't always the accumulation of debris in your air ducts that causes your system to work harder. Any leaks in your ductwork are lost energy, decreasing the system's efficiency and ultimately increasing your energy bill. Hiring an air systems cleaning specialist to clean your ducts won't only remove harmful contaminants but can also rule out potential leaks. SCHEDULE YOUR COMMERCIAL AIR DUCT CLEANING TODAY If you are looking for commercial air duct cleaning services or want to learn more about comprehensive Indoor Air Quality services, we can help. Contact Duct Dynasty, Central Florida's premier air systems cleaning specialists, to learn more and schedule your service.
On the flip side, neglecting your commercial HVAC system opens the building up to potential environmental hazards and energy efficiency issues. Here are some reasons why air duct cleaning is essential for your commercial property: PROTECTS YOUR EMPLOYEES & OCCUPANTS Poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) can cause or magnify existing health conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and other autoimmune disorders. In addition, unclean ducts are sure to worsen existing health conditions that dirty environments might exacerbate, such as asthma, eczema, or hay fever. While safeguarding the health and safety of your employees is the main priority, safeguarding profits is another critical factor. Approximately 20% of all illnesses are caused by poor indoor air quality, leading to extensive time off for employees. Roughly $60 billion is lost yearly due to poor Indoor Air Quality related illnesses, illustrating that the investment in regular air duct cleaning and maintenance leads to long-term savings in other areas of your business. Beyond allergies and illnesses that can be caused or exacerbated by poor indoor air quality, it can also lead to Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). SBS is a building in which the environment puts the occupants at risk for upper respiratory infections. The symptoms of SBS include nasal irritation, eye irritation, and headaches, classifying 1 in 4 buildings in the US as “sick.” Making air duct cleaning a critical step to preventing SBS and ensuring the environment is safe and healthy for all occupants.
Florida's humid climate is the perfect environment for mold to grow and thrive. Mold can spread quickly, requiring professional remediation and restoration services. Mold growth also releases microscopic spores into the air, which continually circulate through the HVAC system, spreading through the open air. These microscopic mold spores present a potential harm to asthma and allergy sufferers. Besides plant allergies, mold is Florida's second most significant cause of seasonal allergies, making it critical to protect occupants and employees from potential mold outbreaks. As we mentioned earlier, mold may not be the only concern hiding in your HVAC systems, as rodents and mice are also commonly found in AC ducts. Although they are small, they can potentially cause devastating damage. Very little material is safe from rodent damage, but some are more susceptible than others, such as duct insulation and fiberglass duct board. These materials can quickly become nest material and create leaks and vulnerabilities in your HVAC system. Beyond the devastating damage caused by a rodent infestation, another hidden danger comes from rodent droppings. Urine and droppings from mice carry the germs that cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which can then be blown throughout your HVAC system and circulate in the air. HPS can cause critical health issues if inhaled, leading to gastrointestinal diseases and chronic respiratory problems. Scheduling regular inspections of your HVAC system is the best way to guard against hidden contaminants. Inspections ensure that your equipment is in excellent working condition and provide the opportunity to quickly remedy any uncovered issues to prevent long-term damage or harm. PROTECTS YOUR INVESTMENT & YOUR PROFITABILITY On top of keeping people in your building safe, clean air ducts are also essential for keeping your ventilation, air conditioning, and heat control in order. A buildup of dirt, dust, and debris can compromise the integrity of your equipment, causing a noticeable decline in performance and an increase in your energy cost. According to National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), a buildup of 0.042" can decrease HVAC efficiency by 21%. Dirty air ducts mean that your electricity has to work harder to be effective. Higher energy usage inevitably leads to increased energy bills eating into profitability and potentially causing a financial strain. Beyond reducing the efficiency of your equipment, there is also a risk that harmful buildup can cause potential damage to the HVAC system and its components. If neglected for too long, you can wear out the filters and vents, which can cause irreparable damage. Regular inspections, maintenance, and cleaning ensure the HVAC system performs at its best and extends the equipment's lifespan. Cleaning and sealing the air ducts ensures clean air enters your HVAC system and protects it from potential damage, saving you from unnecessary HVAC repair and replacement costs. While another expense to factor into your operating budget, a recent study by Carnegie Mellon estimates that a comprehensive IAQ program yields an average ROI of 120%. When considering the financial costs of low productivity, frequent sick leave, and poor energy efficiency, ensuring good IAQ is one of the best investments businesses can make. SCHEDULE YOUR COMMERCIAL AIR DUCT CLEANING TODAY
Lack of good commercial air duct cleaning will make you incur more treatment costs and energy bills, affecting your business' profits. If you are looking for commercial air duct cleaning services or want to learn more about comprehensive Indoor Air Quality services, we can help. Contact Duct Dynasty, Central Florida's premier air systems cleaning specialists, to learn more and schedule your service.
Many of these can cause chronic suffering and asthma, especially for those who are more susceptible, like young children, the elderly, and anyone who suffers from respiratory problems or auto-immune disorders.
Wondering what’s lurking in your indoor air? With simple everyday activities, we generate all sorts of unseen contaminants and air pollutants like dirt, dust, pet dander, cigarette smoke, and chemicals. And just like those easy-to-see surfaces in your home that get dirty over time, your home’s HVAC system pulls all those contaminants and pollutants right into your air ducts — and then recirculates that air throughout your home an average of five to seven times per day! Then there’s mold. It’s perhaps the most bothersome allergen for many Americans. Mold and mildew can lurk all around your home, including in your HVAC system’s duct work. If left undetected or ignored, mold growth can turn into a serious issue, not only for the structure of your home, but for the health of everyone living under its roof. Believe it or not, despite routinely replacing filters, your home’s HVAC system gets really dirty with regular, everyday use; and since your air ducts are a favorite hiding place for dust, dirt, and allergens to linger, those dirty ducts can contribute to larger health issues, especially for those with respiratory conditions, auto-immune disorders, or asthma and allergies. All those indoor air pollutants can also lead to irritated eyes, nose, and throat, as well as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. That’s why May and June are particularly great times to get your air ducts cleaned — with so much added pollen and allergens entering your home in early spring, it’s always a good idea to get them cleaned out before they get a chance to really linger!
Dust and vacuum regularly.
Keeping your home dust-free will help your air filters work more efficiently, which can lead to improved indoor air quality. By using a damp microfiber cloth or vacuuming regularly, you can help minimize the amount of dust and debris floating around in your home. Increase ventilation. Of course, as temperatures drop you want to keep the warm air inside, but the downside of a tightly sealed home is that contaminants can be trapped inside! Weather permitting, open a window to allow fresh air in and push stale air out. Assuming they push air outside, kitchen and bathroom vents are another great way to get rid of contaminated air. Schedule air duct cleaning. Just as the surfaces in your home become dirty over time, so can your air ducts. Through everyday life, our homes generate all sorts of contaminants and air pollutants like pet dander, dust, mold, and chemicals. All of those contaminants are pulled into your home’s HVAC system and recirculated an average of five to seven times per day. Dirty air ducts can contribute to health issues, especially for those with respiratory conditions, auto-immune disorders, or asthma and allergies. Just like those outdoor seasonal allergens, indoor air pollutants can lead to irritated eyes, nose, and throat, as well as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Having your air ducts cleaned can greatly improve your indoor air quality and reduce health problems. Not Convinced? Here’s Another Reason to Get Your Ducts Cleaned! All those contaminants in your home’s heating and cooling system cause it to work harder, and ultimately shorten the life of your furnace and/or air conditioner. Even with proper use of filters, the heating and cooling system gets dirty through normal, everyday use. When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to lower electric bills. Who doesn’t want a little extra cash? |
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