The city’s climate is characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations, where heat warnings being in place make functional air conditioning in Calgary crucial for indoor comfort. However, you must pay attention to your central air ducts to ensure your air conditioner operates efficiently and delivers clean, cool air. Whether you’re looking to optimize your air conditioning system or need air conditioning repairs in Calgary, this guide has you covered.
Why Clean Your Central Air Ducts?
Clean air ducts ensure efficient air conditioning and a comfortable indoor environment. Here’s why it’s crucial:
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Dust, allergens, and pollutants accumulating in ducts can lead to poor indoor air quality. Clean ducts ensure the air you breathe is contaminant-free, reducing allergy symptoms and promoting better health.
- Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Dirty ducts can obstruct airflow, causing your air conditioner to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Clean ducts promote efficient airflow, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.
- Extended System Lifespan: A well-maintained HVAC system, including clean ducts, tends to last longer, saving you money on costly air conditioning repairs or replacements.
Signs Your Ducts Need Cleaning
It’s essential to recognize signs indicating that your central air ducts may need cleaning:
- Dust buildup around vents and registers
- Unpleasant odours, such as musty or mouldy smells
- Increased allergy symptoms when indoors
- Reduced airflow from vents
- Visible mold growth in or around ducts
- Inconsistent cooling in different parts of your home
DIY Central Air Duct Cleaning: What You Need
Before you begin cleaning your central air ducts yourself, gather the necessary tools and supplies:
- Screwdriver
- A vacuum cleaner with a long hose and brush attachment
- Disposable dust masks
- HEPA filter
- Microfiber cloths
- Cleaning brush or long-handled duster
- Screwdriver
Air Conditioning in Calgary: Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Here’s a step-by-step guide for cleaning your central air ducts on your own:
Step #1: Turn Off the Air Conditioning System
Ensure your air conditioning system is turned off to prevent the circulation of dust and debris during cleaning.
Step #2: Remove Vent Covers
Using a screwdriver, remove the vent covers from your ducts. These covers are typically held in place by screws.
Step #3: Clean the Vent Covers
Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to thoroughly clean the vent covers. Wipe them down with a microfiber cloth.
Step #4: Clean the Ducts
Insert the vacuum hose as far as it will go into the duct and gently move it around to dislodge dust and debris. Brush the inside of the duct with a cleaning brush or a long-handled duster. Repeat this process for all vents and ducts.
Step #5: Replace Vent Covers
Securely reattach the vent covers using the screws.
Step #6: Change the HVAC Filter
Install a new HEPA filter to capture any remaining particles in your HVAC system.
Safety Precautions
When cleaning your central air ducts, it’s essential to take safety precautions:
- Wear a dust mask to protect against inhaling dust and debris.
- Use caution when climbing ladders or reaching high vents.
- Turn off the air conditioning system to prevent injury while cleaning.
Professional Duct Cleaning for Air Conditioning in Calgary Benefits
While DIY duct cleaning can be effective for routine maintenance, professional duct cleaning services offer several advantages:
- Thorough Cleaning: Professionals use specialized equipment to reach deep into ducts and remove stubborn debris.
- Improved Air Quality: Professional cleaning eliminates allergens, pollutants, and contaminants, enhancing indoor air quality.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Expert cleaning promotes efficient airflow, reducing energy consumption.
- Mould and Mildew Removal: Professionals can address mould and mildew issues, preventing health hazards.
- Inspection and Repair: Professionals can identify and address duct damage, ensuring optimal system performance.
Maintaining Clean Air Ducts of Air Conditioning in Calgary
Air Conditioning in Calgary Needs Regular Filter Replacement
To maintain clean air ducts and ensure your air conditioning system operates efficiently, replace your HVAC system’s filters regularly. A clean filter prevents dust and debris from entering the ducts and keeps your system running smoothly.
Home Maintenance Practices For Air Conditioning in Calgary
Incorporate the following practices into your home maintenance routine:
- Regularly clean and dust your home to reduce the accumulation of debris.
- Vacuum and mop floors and carpets frequently.
- Keep windows and doors closed to prevent outdoor pollutants from entering your home.
Clean, central air ducts are essential for maintaining comfortable and efficient air conditioning in Calgary, where it’s necessary during the hot summer months. Whether you clean your ducts yourself or hire a professional air conditioning and duct cleaning service, regular duct maintenance should be a priority. If you ever need air conditioning repairs in Calgary, remember that a well-maintained duct system can help reduce the chances of system issues.
Since 1988, Horizon Heating Ltd. has been providing affordable indoor air quality services and AC installation to Calgary and surrounding area. With care and precision, we ensure that our products and services are reasonably priced and widely available. Our AC & Calgary furnace repair service is conducted by professional maintenance technicians, all qualified to provide AC installation, air conditioning repair, and furnace duct cleaning; this includes all models of duct, furnace, and air conditioning. By partnering with contractors and home builders, we expertly install new home HVAC systems, and work together with clients to create custom renovation solutions for all residential projects. Call us today at 403-274-0790.