Monthly Archives: April 2020

Central Humidifiers – What are the Pros & Cons?

Central humidifiers are built right into the heating and air conditioning system. They are designed to humidify your home by releasing a fine water vapor. While humidifiers are very useful, they do have the potential to make you quite ill if you do not maintain them properly.

Humidifiers are great at providing relief from dry skin, dry sinuses, bloody noses, and other respiratory ailments that are sometimes attributed to lack of moisture in the air. However, if not properly cleaned, dirty humidifiers can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Be sure to consult your doctor before installing or using a central humidifier if you have asthma, allergies or any other respiratory health conditions.

Always follow manufacturer’s guidelines when setting humidity levels, as well as instructions for properly cleaning the humidifier. Your HVAC professional can also help guide you in proper use and maintenance of your unit. Here are a few tips for maintaining the cleanliness of your humidifier:

  • Always shut off the water supply before cleaning the drum and tray. Do this at least once monthly.
  • Inspect the float assembly for scale. Scale on the float can potentially cause leaks. Clean or replace.
  • Examine the area around your system for wetness, as this is an indication of a leak.
  • Clean or replace sponges or filters.
  • Always turn off the water supply during the summer months & clean and drain the drum and tray. If you have air conditioning, there could be a metal knob on the humidifier to block the air flow.

Over time, all humidifiers can build up deposits that can become very difficult to clean and remove. This can encourage growth of bacteria or mold. You may wish to consider replacing older humidifiers.

Looking for the Best Company for NJ Central Humidifiers & Installation Services?

DRX Duct Cleaning has been in business for over 10 years proudly serving the greater NJ area. Our staff has combined over 75 years of experience in the air duct cleaning and HVAC industry. Additionally, not only are we NADCA members, but we guarantee an NADCA certified technician on site at every job, every time, no exceptions! For more information or to schedule an appointment with the most exclusive air duct cleaners in NJ, contact us at (908) 755-2950 today.

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How Often You Should Clean Your Dryer — & the Right Way to Do it

The number one reason dryers break is failure to maintain them. Sure, we swipe the thick layer of lint from the filter, but there’s so much more that needs attention to keep your dryer running safely, and efficiently. Here are some professional tips for maintaining dryer filters, drums and vents. Not only will these tips maintain your dryer’s efficiency — but they will also help prevent your appliance from breaking down. Sometimes we don’t know what we have until it’s gone – don’t let that old saying apply to your dryer! Give your appliance a little TLC and it will go a long way.

Filter

We all know that dryer filters should be cleaned after each use. Did you know however, that a clean filter may still be clogged if you use fabric softener sheets in the dryer? Many people have no idea.

To test your dryer filter, first clear it of all lint. Next, pour a small amount of water onto the filter screen. If the water pools up instead of flowing through the screen, there is a residue from the dryer sheet that is blocking the flow. To fix this problem, wash the screen in warm soapy water and scrub it with a brush. Rinse the screen, and repeat this process until the water flows through without pooling.

NJ Dryer Vent CleaningDrum

The dryer drum doesn’t typically need to be cleaned unless you’re drying a load of fur-covered pet items (such as a dog bed or your dog’s favorite blanket) or play clothes coated in sand, dirt, or other gritty material. With items like these, always shake the fur and grit off the best you can before putting them in the dryer. Once the load is dry, be sure to wipe the drum clean with a damp cloth to remove pet hair and grit.

If your son’s favorite crayon he was keeping in his pocket, a lipstick, pack of gum, or other sticky candy accidentally end up in your dryer, it may feel like the end of the world. However, if you follow this advice from Debra Johnson, national home cleaning expert at Merry Maids, it will be okay (after the initial desire to scream wears off, of course). “Get the stuff off by warming the dryer a few minutes. Toss in a couple old towels or rags first. Remove the excess by scraping it off with a hard rubber spatula. Tackle the remaining residue by wiping the area with a cloth dampened with a small amount of laundry detergent and hot water. Use a dry cloth to remove any excess water or suds.”

Believe it or not, all of this was the easy part maintaining your dryer. Now for the hard stuff…Cleaning the dryer vent

How often?

Dryer exhaust vents should be inspected and cleaned at least once yearly depending on the size of the household and frequency of usage.

Why?

Dryer vents accumulate highly flammable lint, and failure to clean out lint is the leading cause of dryer fires. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, over 15, 000 dryer fires occurred in the U.S. in 2010. A plugged dryer vent can also burn out the heating element.

Dryer Vent Cleaning in New JerseyWhen?

A major warning that your dryer vent needs cleaning is when clothes take longer and longer to dry. If it’s taking 2-3 cycles to get a load of towels dry, it’s time to get the exhaust vent inspected. Another red flag that your vent may be obstructed is if the exterior of the dryer is hotter than usual. If this happens, disconnect the dryer right away and check the vent.

How?

Visually inspect the outside vent opening and remove any obstructions present. Typically, these include animal nests. Chipmunks, squirrels and rats love to create nests in vents at ground level. Upper level vents tend to attract birds.

Now that you’ve gotten rid of the squatters, you’ll need to remove the lint. There are multiple options for clearing lint build-up.

  • A flexible brush with an extendible wand grabs the lint for easy removal
  • An air compressor blows it out.
  • A combination vacuum cleaner and brush sucks it out. (Be sure the vacuum hose is long enough.)

No matter the method you use, it’s important to remove the lint from the entire length of the vent. Clearing only as far as you can reach is not effective, and still leaves the air flow restricted, increasing chances of appliance break-down, and possible fire.

Are you overwhelmed yet? You’re not quite finished. After clearing the lint from the vent, you must also remove it from the area behind the dryer—the floor, under the dryer and the back of the cabinet. Why? The air being pulled into the dryer comes from behind the dryer. So, if there’s lint around that area, it will be sucked into the dryer, causing further build-up in the vent.

If all of this sounds a little too complicated, consider hiring a professional to do it. The average professional NJ dryer vent cleaning runs $89-$179.

Looking for the Best NJ Dryer Vent Cleaning Services?

DRX Duct Cleaning has been in business for over 10 years proudly serving the greater NJ area. Our staff has combined over 75 years of experience in the air duct cleaning and HVAC industry. Additionally, not only are we NADCA members, but we guarantee an NADCA certified technician on site at every job, every time, no exceptions! For more information or to schedule an appointment with the most exclusive air duct cleaners in NJ, contact us at (908) 755-2950 today.

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How Do I Prevent Birds from Nesting in My Dryer Vent Exhaust this Spring?

It’s spring. The birds are chirping and it sounds so pretty…. As long as it’s not coming from inside your dryer vent! Birds can cause serious issues when it comes to dryer vents and exhaust fans. Unfortunately, they also tend to return to the same place year after year, so keep reading to find out how to keep them from setting up shop in your dryer vent!

Open dryer vents are a perfect environment for birds to nest in. They use the excess lint to pad their nests, and the warmth of the dryer makes it extra cozy for them. While they’re busy creating warm temperpedic nests for themselves, they’re also creating a dangerous fire hazard for you and your loved ones!

Dryer Vent Cleaning in Central NJBirds will typically create their nests at the opening of the line, but sometimes they can be lodged deeper. Blockages caused by these nests are common. Also, if the bird becomes deceased inside the line, it is very unhealthy. How can you be sure whether or not you have a nest? Take a look at the outside vent cover. If straw, twigs, leaves and lint are visible, this could be a sign. Your clothes may also take longer to dry, indicating a blockage. The final and most apparent sign may be hearing the bird chirping.

The line must be completely cleared, thoroughly cleaned, and sanitized after the blockage is removed. You should consider a cage placed externally on the outside of the vent to prevent birds and small animals from re-entering the line once the cleaning is complete. This should only be handled by a professional, as improper installation or blocking the ventilation can also be a dangerous fire hazard.

Looking for the Best Company for Dryer Vent Cleaning in Central NJ?

Call DRX Duct Cleaning to set up a dryer vent cleaning and to have a proper cage installed. Be wary of so-called “professionals” who may use improper equipment or not thoroughly clear your vent.

DRX Duct Cleaning has been in business for over 10 years proudly serving the greater NJ area. Our staff has combined over 75 years of experience in the air duct cleaning and HVAC industry. Additionally, not only are we NADCA members, but we guarantee an NADCA certified technician on site at every job, every time, no exceptions! For more information or to schedule an appointment with the most exclusive air duct cleaners in NJ, contact us at (908) 755-2950 today.

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Can My Insulated Ductwork Be Cleaned?

Over the past several years, there has been an increase in the number of duct cleaning companies out there. It is very important that company you choose is NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaner’s Association) certified. This will insure that you are receiving a thorough cleaning that is done both safely and properly with the right equipment, and to the highest standards.

Insulated ductwork Cleaning in NJThere are occasions where we come across ductwork that is internally insulated. While fiber board and duct board materials are designed to hold up to a cleaning, only an experienced duct cleaner should be trusted to carry this out. Because they are comprised of fiberglass, small particles become airborne during the cleaning process. Equipment with 12,000 to 16,000 CFM’s of power must be used to ensure the particles are removed.

Extra care must be taken to be sure that the insulation is not damaged during the cleaning. Proper equipment must be used to dislodge any debris adhered to the surface. Once dislodged, the debris also become airborne and must be removed using the proper vacuuming equipment. DRX has state of the art equipment and individually NADCA certified techs with ample experience in this type of duct cleaning.

It is also recommended to have insulated duct work sanitized, as it is known to harbor bacteria. DRX has antibacterial and antimicrobial sanitizers, as well as disinfectant available depending on your specific needs. Mention this article and receive free sanitizer! DRX Duct Cleaning is open for scheduling 7 days a week, and we’re in the field performing duct cleaning services 6 days a week. We’re experienced where it counts, and we’re there when you need us. Call today for your free estimate right over the phone and get started on the road to healthier indoor air quality!

Choose DRX Duct Cleaning for Insulated Duct work Cleaning in NJ

DRX Duct Cleaning has been in business for over 10 years proudly serving the greater NJ area. Our staff has combined over 75 years of experience in the air duct cleaning and HVAC industry. Additionally, not only are we NADCA members, but we guarantee an NADCA certified technician on site at every job, every time, no exceptions! For more information or to schedule an appointment with the most exclusive air duct cleaners in NJ, contact us at (908) 755-2950 today.

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Pets & Allergies

Many of us love our pets like (and occasionally like them more than) family. Unfortunately, pets take the blame for most allergies and about 10% of the population in the United States has some kind of allergy to animals.

Allergies to dogs and cats are among the most common pet allergies in the United States, with cats in the lead. Their frequent grooming habits release allergens in their saliva, dead skin cells, and shedding fur. This combination in the air can trigger everything from watery eyes to asthma attacks depending on the severity of your allergy. On the other hand, not all breeds of dogs produce the same allergens. There are many different types of coats, and breeds that shed less. There are even non-shedding breeds. To avoid the heart break of having to give up your beloved pet due to health reasons, it’s best to research many different breeds before committing to bringing your new furry family member home. Allergy shots are an option, but don’t fully eliminate the problem.

NJ Air Duct Cleaning CompanyOther pets that are less popular than cats or dogs also pose an allergy risk. Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, and ferrets are just a few on the list. On the upside, these types of pets typically do not roam as freely throughout your home as a dog or cat would, so their allergens are slightly more contained. However, even when confined to a specific area, the allergen could still cause a reaction depending on your sensitivity. Food and bedding for these types of pets can also trigger allergy responses.

For some folks, even bird feathers and droppings can be problematic as they relate to allergies. Every time a bird preens and shakes out, it releases dander into the air that can produce an allergic reaction. Bird excrement may also contain bacteria that can trigger allergies, and potentially cause a buildup of mold in the cage – causing even more allergy response.

Don’t be discouraged if you are both an animal lover, and an allergy sufferer. You do not have to give up hope and resign yourself to getting a pet rock just yet. If you do suffer with pet allergies but chose to keep pets  in your home, taking a few smart precautions will go a long way when cleaning out a crate, cage, litter box, etc. If you are particularly sensitive, it’s a good idea to wear a protective mask to keep from inhaling allergens while cleaning your pet’s living space or laundering their sleeping quarters.  Be sure to vacuum and dust more frequently, and have an air duct cleaning every other year if you have multiple pets in the home. This will free your air duct system from any pet hair, dander, mites, expelled feathers, dead skin, etc. Occasionally, even the most well behaved cat may get curious and use your floor vents as a litter box! Dried urine and feces are very unhealthy to breathe in, regardless of if you suffer from allergies or not, and should be professionally cleaned immediately if you suspect this has happened.

Looking for an Excellent NJ Air Duct Cleaning Company?

DRX Duct Cleaning is frequently called by new homeowners to perform air duct cleaning where the prior homeowner had pets, and by realtors attempting to sell homes where the prior owner had pets. In cases like these, the duct work needs to be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized – preferably with an antimicrobial. All filters should be replaced, and the coils inside your air handle should also be cleaned and sanitized. So whether you just moved in, or you’re trying to move out, air duct cleaning is a vital component to homeownership, and resale – especially where pets are involved.

DRX Duct Cleaning has been in business for over 10 years proudly serving the greater NJ area. Our staff has combined over 75 years of experience in the air duct cleaning and HVAC industry. Additionally, not only are we NADCA members, but we guarantee an NADCA certified technician on site at every job, every time, no exceptions! For more information or to schedule an appointment with the most exclusive air duct cleaners in NJ, contact us at (908) 755-2950 today.

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Are You Ready for Spring Allergies?

Ah, Spring. The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and the allergy sufferers are flocking to the drug stores and buying out all the antihistamines on the shelves. As much as we are ready to welcome winter’s end, those of us with allergies are dreading the yearly plague of itchy noses, watery eyes, and sneezing! There are a few things we can do to prepare, but eliminating our exposure to pollen is essentially impossible.

Air Duct Cleaning in Central NJ

Here are a few things you can do:

  •  As tempting as it may be to crack open all the windows and leave the doors open, don’t do it!  Keep them closed to minimize exposure to allergens.
  • Be sure to vacuum your home frequently! Vacuuming floors, rugs, furniture, even your mattresses and pillows with a HEPA filtered vacuum is recommended.
  • Pollen sticks to fabric like velcro. To avoid spreading it through your home, change your clothes as soon as you get inside. You may even want to bag the clothes before bringing them to the laundry area depending on the severity of your allergies. Also, leave shoes in the foyer so you do not track the pollen onto your floors and rugs.
  • If you typically shower in the morning, try switching it up and showering before bed to avoid transferring pollen to your blankets and pillows.
  • Be sure to change furnace filters frequently. Use a pleated filter with a high MERV rating. Spending a little more on a high quality filter it worth it.
  • Do mold inspections because mold can set off allergies as well.  The top places to uncover mold is in bathrooms, kitchens, basements or anywhere there may be leaks, or propensity for humid conditions.
  • Remember to clean and shut off the humidifier if you have one attached to your furnace.
  • Limit outdoor activity when the pollen count is at a high. (Typically between 5:00 AM – 10:00 AM) Pollen counts are always high on windy days, and hot dry days have a higher pollen count as well.
  • Check the local weather app or weather station for an air quality report before planning your day.
  • Schedule an appointment to have your air ducts cleaned and sanitized.  This will remove pollen, dust, dust mites, mold spores and other allergens from your air ducts.

Looking a Great Company for Air Duct Cleaning in Central NJ?

DRX Duct Cleaning has been in business for over 10 years proudly serving the greater NJ area. Our staff has combined over 75 years of experience in the air duct cleaning and HVAC industry. Additionally, not only are we NADCA members, but we guarantee an NADCA certified technician on site at every job, every time, no exceptions! For more information or to schedule an appointment with the most exclusive air duct cleaners in NJ, contact us at (908) 755-2950 today.

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What are the Benefits of Cleaning My Commercial Office Building?

There are lots of reasons why commercial office buildings should be cleaned. Perhaps the most important reason is the health of the employees who work there. We spend the better portion of our day at work, so a healthy work environment is vital to our overall health and well-being.

Did you know there is something called Sick Building Syndrome? Sick Building Syndrome is a real health condition that occurs when occupants of a building start to experience health issues directly related to the air quality within that building. This can reduce work efficiency and increase absenteeism. The situation can be widespread, or contained in a specific area of the building. Employees may experience headaches, nausea, eye, ear, nose, or throat irritation, dry coughing, itchy skin and other troublesome symptoms. With Sick Building Syndrome, symptoms are typically reduced or completely alleviated after leaving the building.

NJ Commercial Air Duct CleaningThere are a variety of factors that may contribute to Sick Building Syndrome, but we will focus on the ones that are caused by contaminants within the duct work of the building. These include dust, bacteria, pollen, rodents and rodent droppings, fungus, and molds. Additionally, if air ducts were not covered properly during renovations, there may also be sawdust, sheet rock dust, or other construction debris present within the duct system.

The presence of visible dust or mold on vent covers themselves is not only unsightly, but also unhealthy. Furthermore, it presents as unprofessional, especially to clients that may visit your location. 

Having a proper professional commercial air duct cleaning and sanitizing the ductwork throughout your building at least once every three years will greatly reduce the risk of Sick Building Syndrome. Additionally, it will help your HVAC system work more efficiently. More importantly, it will show your employees that you care about their well-being, and it will keep your workplace looking professional and well maintained, free of both unsightly and unhealthy hidden contaminants.

Choose the Best NJ Commercial Air Duct Cleaning Company!

It is imperative to choose the right company when taking on the large task of a commercial cleaning. Without the proper equipment, and certified professionals who are trained thoroughly in the use of that equipment, you risk the job being done improperly. DRX Duct Cleaning has been in business for over 10 years proudly serving the greater NJ area. Our staff has combined over 75 years of experience in the air duct cleaning and HVAC industry. Additionally, not only are we NADCA members, but we guarantee an NADCA certified technician on site at every job, every time, no exceptions! We use powerful commercial grade equipment, truck powered vacuums, and our techs have a wealth of knowledge, and experience where it counts! For more information or to schedule an appointment with the most exclusive air duct cleaners in NJ, contact us at (908) 755-2950 today.

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