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Having an Allergic Reaction? There Could be Mold in Your Air Ducts!

Air conditioner system with dirt

Symptoms of Allergic reaction caused by Indoor Air Pollution:

  • Worsening asthma, allergies, and other respiratory problems
  • Headaches & nausea
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sinus congestion, sneezing, and coughing
  • Eye, skin, nose, and throat irritations
  • Memory loss, dizziness, fatigue, and depression

Are you or any of your household members suffering from any of the symptoms
listed above?

A majority of people are exposed to mold every day without experiencing any side effects.
However, people that already have preexisting mold allergies can have a reaction if they are
subject to an abundant amount of mold; with symptoms such as wheezing, rashes or hives,
itchy eyes, and respiratory failure. “One out of every six allergy sufferers’ symptoms can be
directly linked to the mold in air ducts.” cited from a 2005 study organized by the National
Institutes of Health in Total Health Magazine.

How to Avoid Mold Growth in Your Air Ducts

As you can see, the air ducts in your home are the biggest culprit. When the air conditioning system
cools down your home it leaves remnants of water inside causing a perfect environment for microbial
growth.

The EPA advises that you should have your ducts cleaned if there is noticeable mold growth on
the surface of your ducts, but there are many areas of your HVAC system that are not easily
visible. In order to bypass mold growth in your HVAC system, you must diminish origins of
moisture and have your air ducts cleaned as needed.

Eliminating and Preventing Mold in Air Ducts

  • Get your HVAC system checked out by a NADCA certified company-having the ducts
    cleaned by a NADCA certified company ensures that you will have your ducts cleaned by
    industry standards.
  • Set your air conditioning system on “recirculate” – by doing this, your system will extract
    most of the mold & pollen from your home.
  • Consider having hardwood floors or tile in your home as opposed to carpet.
  • Before entering your home take off shoes or wipe them thoroughly before entering.

Schedule Your Air Duct Cleaning Today!

Is it time to schedule a cleaning for your home’s air duct system? Seasonal cleaning could help you prevent an unpleasant allergic reaction. Give the DRX DUCT LLC team a call today at (908) 755-2950 to schedule your air duct cleaning in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ. You’ll enjoy cleaner air in no time!

Are Your Dirty Ducts Making You Ill?

Symptoms of Dirty Ducts & Indoor Air Pollution:

We Provide Professional Duct Cleaning fort Dirty ducts You Can Depend On.

Duct Cleaning Dirty Ducts Can Improve Your Home’s Air Quality, Eliminating Some Allergy and Bronchial Issues.

• Worsening asthma, allergies, and other respiratory problems
• Headaches & nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Sinus congestion, sneezing, and coughing
• Eye, skin, nose, and throat irritations
• Memory loss, dizziness, fatigue, and depression

As reported by a 2005 study regulated by the National Institutes of Health and cited in Total Health Magazine, the most frequent home allergens deriving from dirty ducts are seasonal pollen, mold, dust, dust mites, animal dander, and chemicals including formaldehyde, capricious organic compounds, traditional paint and finishes, and perpetual fabric treatments.

Fun Fact: One out of every six allergy sufferers’ symptoms can be directly linked to the pathogens & fungus found in their air ducts.

NADCA notes that it helps to think about the HVAC system in your home as the lungs, breathing in and out air. Also, if your ducts look dirty, they probably are. NADCA further goes on to explain that in a regular 6-bedroom house about 40lbs of dust is generated every year. All this dust is being pulled into the lungs of the home and blown back out into the home, on average, about 7 times per day.

You should have your air ducts professionally cleaned every couple of years. More frequently depending on if you are a smoker, have any pets, or if you are having any construction done in the home; dust and other particles from the work can get into the system. You can always check the inside of your vents by sticking your phone or camera inside and take a picture with the flash on. If it looks dirty, then it probably is. Make sure to visit the NADCA website and look for a certified technician close to you.

IN ORDER TO EVADE THE HEALTH HAZARDS CAUSED BY UNHEALTHY AIR:

  • Get your HVAC system checked out by a NADCA certified company- Having the ducts cleaned by a NADCA certified company ensures that you will have your ducts cleaned by industry standards.
  • Set your air conditioning system on “recirculation”– By doing this, your system will extract most of the mold & pollen from your home.
  • Consider having hardwood floors or tile in your home as opposed to carpet-
    Before entering your home take off shoes or wipe them thoroughly before entering.

Will Duct Cleaning Remove Mold in Air Ducts?

mold in air ducts

If Moisture Gets Into Your Duct work, It Can Lead To Mold Growth.

Both home and business owners know that mold in air ducts or around the home is a serious issue within their property. Mold is started from spores which can be carried through doors, windows, and even your ductwork to inside your building and, given the right environment, can grow, leading to health issues for all of those within the building. Minimizing and eliminating mold at the first sign is important, which is why it is so important that businesses and homes have regular duct cleaning services. Ducts can be affected by many things and since they carry spores throughout the property may have some mold spores within them as well. If any moisture gets in the system, given a change of temperature or even a roof leak which can create a lot of damage in a short time and may seep into the ductwork itself, it may allow the mold to grow. Duct cleaning can reduce and stop mold in its tracks, removing the spores and even any growing mold from your system.

How Often Should You Clean the Air Ducts?

While getting regular air duct cleaning is the best thing to do, you may wonder how many times you really need this service. The number of times you may need cleaning will vary upon your needs, but a good rule of thumb is that any time you move, having the ducts cleaned is imperative. This will ensure any pollutants, dust, and even mold in air ducts is handled before you move into your new home or business. After this, the average for air duct cleaning is as needed, such as in the event of high pollen or if mold is discovered within the property, with an average of three years between cleanings. This will ensure your property maintains good quality indoor air and keeps the mold in air ducts at bay.

Why Get Your Ducts Cleaned?

A good cleaning will do more than just get rid of mold in air ducts! Over time, ductwork can get dirty. Because it passes so much air through it, it also inherently passes particles of dust, dirt, pollen, and more, which can land in the ducts and build up over time. These can be particularly harmful to individuals in your home or business. A good cleaning can handle these, returning quality to your indoor air and preventing health issues. Once all of these damaging particles are removed from your system you may even notice increased efficiency from your heater or air conditioner, as it will have fewer contaminants to contend with. This means that you will save on money during the intense seasonal shifts.

Commercial and Residential Duct Cleaning

Getting started on an air duct cleaning today can ensure you have a future with quality air conditioning and air quality. DRX DUCT LLC is here for you, providing you with services to get your ductwork back in top shape and even eliminate mold in air ducts! We are always ready to get to work on your home or business system in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ. Give us a call at (908) 755-2950 today!

New Furnace, Clean Ducts!

New Furnace, Clean Ducts!

Duct Cleaning

Air Duct Cleaning Comes with Serious Benefits Across Multiple Areas.

The average homeowner replaces their furnace about every 10-15 years. Most times the last time the furnace was replaced was also the last time an air duct cleaning was done.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you should see about having an air duct cleaning if:

  1. If you can visibly see mold growth inside air ducts or other parts of the system, such as the vents.
  2. The air ducts are riddled with insects or rodents.
  3. Dust and debris are clogging the ducts while being released into your home.

Most times you cannot see dust and debris that is being blown into your home with the bare eye. When a contractor comes in and replaces the furnace, he is not replacing any of the ductwork, therefore anything that was captured inside will remain inside. Another thing to keep in mind is that the new furnace might blow out air differently than the old one, forcefully pushing air and debris when it is turned on for the first time, which is why you should clean the air ducts prior to turning the new furnace on.

Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning NJ

According to NADCA, pollutants in our home are recycled throughout the HVAC system and are distributed back into the home up to 7 times per day. Because of this, an accumulation of contamination materializes in the ducts. Having dirty ducts does not automatically mean that the air in your home is unhealthy. However, it can contribute to irritating allergies, cause serious problems for individuals who have respiratory health issues, or autoimmune disorders.

The average American spends around 90% of their time indoors. To reduce dust and improve the air quality in your home be sure to have an air duct cleaning as necessary.

Plus, as a report by the US Department of Energy up to 30% of the energy used to run the HVAC system is wasted. Pollutants in the HVAC system can cause the system to not run properly and can even shorten the life of the system as well. A clean system will maintain your desired temperature with ease.

Things to Expect from an Air Duct Cleaning Service Provider

If you decide on getting your air ducts clean, your service provider should:

  • Stay in compliance with the NADCA standards.
  • Handle the ductwork with care. (Reinsulated and seal any access holes that were made at the time of service.)
  • Preserve the carpets and furniture in your home.
  • Use a high-efficiency particle air (HEPA) vacuum.

One last thing: Do not forget to clean your dryer vent! A dryer vent cleaning will clear out any lint or dirt that gets trapped inside over time. Although it is often overlooked, it is a crucial step in the maintenance of your home.

How Much Does Air Duct Cleaning Cost?

There are a lot of companies out there that promise a professional air duct cleaning service for a low amount of money. Chances are if it is too good to be true, it probably is. These companies are called “bait & switch” companies. They promise low prices and once they’re in your home they’ll find other problems or issues and up the price astronomically (most times without completing the job thoroughly). Also, try and stay away from companies that charge per vent. Most companies that pull these types of schemes are not certified by NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association). Even if you are hiring a company that claims to be certified by NADCA, be sure to ask whether a NADCA certified technician will be on-site during the time of your service.

The fact of the matter is that the cost of an air duct cleaning depends on the home that you live in. A small home with one system will cost less than a larger home with more than one system. The least amount of money that you will pay to have your ducts cleaned properly is anywhere from $400-$500 and the most that you’ll wind up paying is around $1,000.

What’s Included With Air Duct Cleaning

THE FOLLOWING SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN A PROFESSIONAL DUCT CLEANING SERVICE:

  • Supply vents
  • Return vents
  • Trunk lines (both of them)
  • Visual inspection of major components in your furnace
  • Visual inspection of your evaporative coil
  • Wipe down the furnace cabinet and the surfaces inside

There are a few things that wouldn’t necessarily be included in a regular duct cleaning service. Sometimes the furnace will need a more in-depth cleaning than the standard wipe down that is included in a duct cleaning service. The more in-depth cleaning would entail taking out the blower from the furnace- although, some furnaces you cannot take the blower out of. Another would be an evaporative coil cleaning; this coil sits on the top of the furnace, which should be inspected at the time of your duct cleaning service.

Essentially, it’s in your best interest to find a trustworthy company that is NADCA certified. Be sure to visit the NADCA website and see the full list of certified technicians in your area. For more information about air duct cleaning service, or to schedule yours, call us today at (908) 755-2950.

Why Is It Important To Clean Your Dryer Vent

Why Is It Important To Clean Your Dryer Vent? Almost every home has a washing machine and dryer. The washing machine is essential to getting your clothes clean while a dryer ensures they are dry. Like other components in your home, it’s important to maintain your dryer by cleaning the dry vent. There are many reasons why it’s important to clean your dryer vent with a few examples stated below.

Prevent Fires

Why It Is Important To Clean Your Dryer Vent?

Why Is It Important To Clean Your Dryer Vent?

One of the biggest concerns that homeowners should be aware of is the lint not being cleaned from the dryer vent. When the lint accumulates in the vent, it can cause fires because the lint is highly flammable.

Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Another important reason to clean your dryer vent is to protect you and your family from CO (carbon monoxide poisoning. A clogged dryer vent can cause CO gases to develop in your home because they have nowhere to escape.

Extend the Life of Your Dryer

Cleaning the dryer vent is good preventative maintenance in order to prolong the life of your dryer. When the vent is clogged or full of lint, it can make the dryer work harder than it should, which in turn wears it down faster. In addition, sensors and other parts can malfunction when the dryer duct starts to become clogged.

Save You Money

A dryer that is constantly drying clothes can use a lot of energy. Homeowners are able to tell when they look at their utility bills and the expenses have increased. Clean your dryer vent to prevent this from happening. If your clothes are taken longer than 40 minutes to 50 minutes to dry then consider having DRX Duct Cleaning come and perform an annual dryer vent cleaning service.

If you need Dryer Vent Cleaning in New Jersey, Call DRX DUCT LLC at 908.755.2950 to set up an appointment.

How To Tell If There Is Mold Growth In Your Building

Mold growth is common in houses and businesses. Often on shower curtains, bathroom tile walls, and in kitchen drains, mold and mildew are anywhere there is water. Oftentimes, mold growth is hidden inside walls from leaks or any place where moisture just sits, giving plenty of food for mold to live on and grow. Some molds can be toxic, but all can produce unpleasant symptoms. Here are some ways to tell if there is mold inside your building:

Mold Growth In Your Home Or Business Can Produce Allergy-Like Symptoms

Mold Growth In Your Home Or Business Can Produce Allergy-Like Symptoms

How To Detect Mold Growth

A Musty Smell

You know when you have left dishes in the sink for too long and they start to smell? That’s mold. That type is easily to notice and clean, but if there is a musty smell in the basement or coming from the walls, then there is a leak from a broken pipe.

Physical Symptoms

Sneezing, trouble breathing, irritated eyes and skin, and runny noses are caused by mold spores floating in the air. Toxic mold can cause headaches, trouble concentrating, memory loss, and dizziness. Find the source of the mold, get it removed, and watch as your ailments instantly disappear.

The most common form of a large amount of mold growth is from water leaks in your HVAC or waterline piping systems. The technicians at DRX DUCT LLC offer commercial duct cleaning to help clean out vents of mold and spore growth. DRX Duct Cleaning has been specializing in commercial air duct cleaning services in NJ for over 25 years. If you think your building is suffering from poor indoor quality, give us a call and we will be more than happy to perform an inspection and determine if air duct cleaning and HVAC remediation may be necessary to cure your building’s healthy! Call us at 908.755.2950 for mold growth removal in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ.

3 Reasons to Schedule Fireplace Chimney Cleaning

Chimney Sweep Standing on Roof of Home & Working

Chimney sweep standing on roof of home working

Fireplaces can be a wonderful luxury in modern homes, but they can also be incredibly dangerous if not properly maintained. One important part of maintaining the integrity of your fireplace is regular Fireplace Chimney Cleaning. Now that winter has passed and the weather is starting to get warmer, it is a great time to consider hiring a professional to clean your chimney. If you would like to schedule chimney cleaning in your home, contact the staff a DRX DUCT LLC. We are here to make sure the air quality in your home is the best that it possibly can be.

Benefits of a Fireplace Chimney Cleaning

There are many reasons to make sure your chimney is cleaned regularly. Here are some of the main reasons why this is such an important part of your home maintenance.

It Allows For Proper Ventilation
Fires produce smoke, carbon monoxide, and other harmful gases. If the chimney is blocked, these gases won’t be able to get outside your home and instead will fill your living room. This could have dire consequences for your and your family.

It Improves Overall Safety
Over time creosote and other debris can build up in your chimney. If it isn’t removed on a regular basis, it can create a fire hazard for your home. Regular chimney cleaning allows you to protect your home and family.

It Extends the Life of Your Chimney
Your chimney and smokestack can wear out over time. A regular chimney cleaning and inspection can help pinpoint problems and get them fixed before they cause significant damage and you have to get the whole chimney rebuilt.

If you have questions about the condition of your chimney or would like to schedule an appointment for chimney cleaning in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ, call our staff at (908) 755-2950.

How Do You Know if You Have an Air Duct Leak?

You know that your air ducts need to be cleaned, and you know that air ducts leaks need to be sealed. The question is: when do you know you have an air duct leak? After all, leaks can be very small, and so you might not notice a difference in airflow. So, how can you be sure your air ducts are sealed?

Signs of an Air Duct Leak

When it comes to large leaks, you will probably be able to tell by how well you feel your airflow, and by how balanced the temperature is in your home. When the air in your home flows as it should, you should feel it easily when you get near the vents. Just put your hand to the vent; if the flow feels normal, you are probably in good shape. If not, you might need to have your ducts cleaned and checked for leaks.

Large gap in HVAC air ducts

If you have duct leaks, your HVAC system will have a harder time regulating the temperature in your home. You may notice that your unit struggles to cool or warm your home to the desired temperature. That’s because the warmed or cooled air isn’t reaching the rooms and working effectively. A good duct cleaning and leak seal might be the necessary repairs.

Of course, when it comes to a very, very small air duct leak, sometimes the only way to know if you have them is to have someone find them. That is one of the benefits of a thorough duct cleaning. When you have a professional clear your ducts, it is much easier to find leaks, and then have them sealed.

Keep your air ducts in good shape with regular cleaning by the experts at DRX Duct, LLC. Call us for duct cleaning services in New Jersey at 908-755-2950.

Do Animals in Air Ducts pose a Threat ?

Squirrels and other animals might look cute and cuddly, but do these Animals in Air Ducts pose a risk? You might have recently heard thumping or scratching in the attic and wondered if the critters in your attic might be harming anything.

Animals in Air Ducts

Mice can chew through air ducts.

Animals in Air Ducts often damage air ducts, electrical wiring, air conditioning units, insulation, roofs, and the list goes on. Raccoons, squirrels, rats, and mice could be destroying your air ducts or ruining the air quality in your home.

How do they pose a risk to your air ducts?

During the winter and summer months, animals search for warm or cool spots to find shelter. Usually, the air ducts carry air conditioned temperatures making them prime targets for animals to take refuge from the extreme temperatures.

Unfortunately, ducts provide excellent passageways into your home. Rodents and other creatures crawl through the ducts to move around the house chewing holes through the ducts and loosening connections.

As the creatures live and die in your air ducts in your home, they leave behind excrement and even their own dead bodies. These two things cause terrible smells throughout your house and even pose health concerns.

What can you do about Animals in Air Ducts ?

There are several solutions to getting rid of creatures in the attic. Here are some popular methods:

  • Traps
  • Poison
  • Ultrasonic devices that emit sound frequencies inaudible to humans
  • Professional animal removal

When you suspect that the creatures have gotten into your air ducts, you need to call the professionals immediately. The animals could cause more damage to the air ducts.

If you recently had creatures in the attic, let the professionals make sure the animals didn’t ruin your air ducts.  DRX DUCT LLC make sure your ducts are clean. Contact us today at (908) 755-2950 to find out more about our air duct cleaning service.