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.
There 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.
The interior of your home or business can run into many issues along the line. Perhaps something that isn’t put in the forefront as much with routine check-ups can be indoor air quality. Yet indoor air quality is an essential thing to keep up with as it can affect the health and behavior of occupants inside. Read below to see how indoor air quality may be affecting you and see what strides can be made to improve upon it. As with anything, be sure to contact a professional if you’d like more in-depth information or recommendations more specifically made to your property.
What causes poor air quality?
Poor air can stem from a variety of reasons yet some common things that can cause it can be an accumulation of the following or stand-alone. Such things can be cigarette smoke, dust mites, mold and mildew, pet dander, household cleaning products. polyurethane, PBB, PCB, formaldehyde, and insects.
How can I improve overall air quality?
IAQ can be improved by a combination of several methods. It’s important to remember that your property has many systems, appliances, materials and even decor and furniture which can affect the air you breathe. (There are VOCs volatile organic compounds found in paints and furniture materials.) Some things that can help improve indoor air quality can start with your AC filters, ideally, these should be cleaned every 1-3 months or every month if there are smokers and pets. Another thing that can often be forgotten is to check your air ducts, the air ducts themselves are basically tunnels that deliver the warm and cold air across the property to vents. Now with humidity and dust, there can be certain things like mold and other contamination that can form inside them which can affect the overall indoor air quality. It’s safe to have your ducts checked at least every 1-3 years or as recommended by your HVAC professional.
What are the symptoms of bad air quality in the home?
Poor indoor air quality can cause some symptoms to emerge and in some cases, those who don’t have allergies or asthma can develop them with exposure over time. Some people may experience certain symptoms over others yet commonly you can experience coughing, sneezing, shortness of breath, headaches, sinus congestion, dizziness, fatigue, and dryness or irritation of the eyes, nose, skin, and throat.
How do I get the best indoor air quality?
You can choose to implement professional services or impart some DIY endeavors that can easily be incorporated into your home to improve indoor air quality. An obvious way to cut indoor air quality is to maintain a cleaner home which not only helps with hygiene but can greatly cut dust, animal dander, mold and mildew from the equation. If you’re using household products with exasperating chemicals, make sure to ventilate the area by cracking the window or opening a door. In general, letting fresh air in is a good way to circulate bad air out. You could also invest in an air purifier, just be sure to keep up with filter changes. The same can be said with filters in your greater HVAC system.
How do I disinfect the air in my house?
Disinfecting your home can be done without chemicals fairly simply. It can be as simple as letting fresh air in or keeping houseplants. Some houseplants may even pull away from certain toxins from the area as seen with spider plants which are typically placed at bedsides for fresh air. You can also clean with nontoxic chemicals that can take away from less than ideal cleaning experiences. What’s more, essential oil diffusers or beeswax candles can be a great alternative to candles that have certain ingredients that aren’t best to breathe in.
What are the 4 major indoor air pollutants?
Asbestos
Biological Pollutants
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Formaldehyde/Pressed Wood Products
Lead (Pb)
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
Pesticides
Radon (Rn)
Indoor Particulate Matter
Secondhand Smoke/ Environmental Tobacco Smoke
Stoves, Heaters, Fireplaces, and Chimneys
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
How can I check the air quality in my home?
Indoor air quality can be checked with air quality monitors which check levels of allergens, dust, humidity and chemical pollutants in the home. Natural gas detectors can also be added for gas leak detection and can detect not only carbon monoxide but other types of gas as well.
What instrument measures air quality?
Air quality can be measured by an air quality meter such as the PCE-RCM 15 which is specifically designed to monitor indoor air quality. This meter measures the parameters for humidity, formaldehyde, temperature, PM1, PM2.5, PM10 and TVOC.
What is unhealthy air quality?
An AQI stands for air quality index and can go up to a reading of 500 with 301-500 readings considered as “hazardous.” “Unhealthy” air is read as an AQI of 151-200 and the reading of 101-151 can still be considered “unhealthy but for sensitive groups.” With the “unhealthy” reading everyone can experience adverse health effects.
Contact A Professional HVAC Company For Assistance
A good way to cut poor indoor air quality from its source is to have an HVAC professional conduct air duct cleaning or change your filters for you. Here are also some tips regarding air duct cleaning 101 that may prove useful to you. Improving indoor air quality is essential in maintaining the health of the occupants inside your property. Contact a professional today to learn more about what efforts an be made to improve it for the better.
If you require assistance with indoor air quality in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ call (908) 755-2950 with DRX DUCT LLC!
You probably use it every day and you know the dryer vent to outside, but you may not have any idea how dryer vent works. While it isn’t necessary to know the mechanical workings of a dryer vent, knowing how to clean out the dryer vent and how often it is a must. Not just for the safety of your home, but for the longevity of the dryer.
Dryer vent and duct cleaning is important to your family and home’s safety, and it also extends the life of the dryer and requires less energy to dry your clothes, saving you on energy bills. Experts recommend that dryer exhaust vents should be cleaned and inspected once a year for the average-sized family. The more laundry you do, you may need to consider clean out the dryer vent process two to three times a year. Why?
You empty the lint screen after each use, (or at least we hope you do!). Did you know that not all the lint accumulates on that screen though? Lint also works past that screen and on into the vent that goes outside. So, when we are recommending that you do an annual clean out the dryer vent, or more, it is to remove that flammable lint in that foil-like hose on the back of the dryer.
Over 15,000 fires in the United States is caused by the clothes dryer each year. A sure sign that your dryer needs a clean out the dryer vent is the time it takes for an average load of clothes or towels to dry. When you need rerun the dry two to three times to get your average load of towels dry, it is time to clean the dryer vent.
Another indication that it is time to clean out the dryer vent, is if the external cabinet is hot to the touch, or the control panel. Before you check either of these two things, always disconnect the dryer from the electricity then check the vent.
How do
you tell if your dryer vent is clogged?
As lint builds up and clogs the system then pushes air back into the clothes dryer. Clothes get hot but stay damp, making you run the dryer over and over. Learn to know when your dryer vent needs cleaning isn’t obvious, so here we offer the following signs:
Clothes are extremely hot – When a dryer can’t vent the hot air, it overheats. This puts stress on the blower, heating element, and other parts.
Increased drying time – If your clothes are getting dry in the normal time, clean out the dryer vent and have the vent inspected.
Outside of vent collecting debris and dust – If you’re noticing debris and dust on the exterior siding of the dryer vent, you need to schedule a time to clean out the dryer vent. If you’ve never done this before, the first time should be done by a professional.
Always empty the lint trap – If you’re not already, start emptying the lint trap after each use. If there is lint trap is empty, this indicates the airflow is decreased. This can usually be resolved after clean out the dryer vent is performed.
Why
does my dryer vent keep getting clogged?
There are different factors your dryer vent is clogged frequently, with the first one being the lint trap isn’t emptied after each use. While the lint trap can do an excellent job catching the lint, if it isn’t clean regularly, the lint will start getting sucked into the vent hose. If you know you the lint trap isn’t emptied as it should be, perform a clean out the dryer vent process three to four times a year.
Another cause the dryer to get frequently clogged are foreign the objects in the lint trap. Common in most busy households, family members will empty their pockets on top of the clothes dryer or washing machine. Items like coins, gum wrappers, keys or other items. They get sucked into the dryer vent and block the air and gas from properly exhausting out the vent.
A frequent question that experts are asked is “Can a blocked dryer vent cause a fire?”, and the answer is yes. It cannot be repeated and stressed enough that the dryer lint trap needs to be cleaned after each use and no less than once a year, a clean out the dryer vent process should take place either by the homeowner in the instructions we provided or hiring a professional. Need dryer vent cleaning service in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ? Dial (908) 755-2950 today for DRX DUCT LLC.
As a business owner, you have enough concerns from day-to-day business, customers, employees, and more. If that business is a manufacturing plant or has a warehouse, you have extra concerns about the air inside your business. So, another task for you is to find a company that does commercial air duct cleaning services.
Finding a business that offers commercial air duct cleaning services will clear the debris and dirt that collects daily. Even if you have a cleaning staff that wipes things down each evening, the debris and dust particles get sucked into the HVAC ventilation system. This is the air that your customers and employees are breathing all day.
There are many
benefits to expect by hiring a commercial
duct cleaning company:
Improved Energy Efficiency: As a business owner, you don’t want to spend more money than necessary on utilities. When the HVAC becomes clogged with debris, dirt, and dust. It is working harder to cool or heat the building, and that adds up on the electric bill. By having your HVAC system and vents professionally cleaned regularly, it will help reduce your energy expenses.
Offensive Orders Eliminated: The debris, dirt, and dust that collect in your HVAC system are just part of what can collect in there. When an employee burns popcorn or a process of your manufacturing emits odors, they get stuck in the vent system. This will float through the air of the entire building, making it unpleasant for everyone, including your customers. A professional air duct company will have the needed commercial duct cleaning equipment to thoroughly clean the vents that will eliminate the odor and the source causing the odors.
Stop Mold Growth: HVAC systems are notorious for collecting organic substances that mildew and create mold. If left unattended, the mold will feed on itself and grow. A professional commercial air duct cleaning company will remove the debris, dirt, dust, and other objects that create the mildew and mold.
What is the best duct cleaning method?
The following are the three most common methods for commercial air
duct cleaning:
Air Sweep – Also referred to as Power Vacuum, is the most expensive process and the most meticulous method. Of the three methods, this one does the best job by carefully removing dirt.
Point of Contact – This process is less expensive and safer for the air ducts and vents than the above-mentioned process, although it uses a vacuum with a spinning brush, it is not as thorough.
Source Removing – Of the three methods, it is the most common for air duct cleaning. It is a mechanical agitation that loosens the debris, dirt, and dust, safely extracting it entirely.
Is duct
cleaning messy?
Yes, the commercial air duct cleaning process is characteristically messy. It is important to clarify the company you hire takes the preventive steps that will prevent any debris, dirt, and dust from escaping throughout your office. This should include covering their shoes, themselves, and the flooring.
Does duct cleaning remove mold?
A common complaint in
the workforce is mold present in the HVAC system, and it is a sneaky thing to
get rid of. Not only does it grow, but it proliferates, making your customers
and employees sick. A professional commercial
air duct cleaning company should use a
disinfectant specifically labeled for HVAC by the EPA. This disinfectant cleans
nonporous surfaces of any moisture, mold and other debris and dirt.
Does duct cleaning remove the smell?
Regardless of what the nature of our business is, the air ducts in the office and warehouse will collect debris, dirt, dust, and odors. These odors may be coming from chemical solutions that are used in the plant. Professional commercial air duct cleaning will eliminate old toxins that resurface as well as any new toxins that your company is placing in the air.
Professional commercial air duct cleaning will reduce the airborne pathogens that are causing your customers and employees to respiratory distress. For employees that have a sensitivity to airborne objects like pollen, minimizing asthma triggers or allergy attacks.
How long should duct cleaning take?
On average, a commercial air duct cleaning service can provide a proper and thorough cleaning that can take two to four hours for a single system with ten to fifteen vents. There are factors that can affect this, such as any repairs or replacement of parts like vents.
Is duct cleaning a waste of money?
A professional commercial air duct cleaning every 5 to 7 years is not a waste of money for any business. Clean HVAC duct systems provide your place of a business clean air for our customers and employees. Your employees will have a better work record with less sickness by removing the mold and mildew and keep it from spreading further.
The results from hiring a professional commercial air duct cleaning company will give your business clean, pure air for customers and employees to benefit. As mentioned earlier, having this service performed every 5 to 7 years is strongly recommended by the NADCA. Call (908) 755-2950 today for your air duct cleaning in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ.
Are you having a problem with your dryer clothes not fully drying in your dryer? Hold off on calling someone in to repair the dryer. The dryer may not be broken. You may just need to have a dryer Vent Cleaning in NJ. Dryer vents can get clogged with lint and other debris, which can cause your dryer to stop drying your clothes properly.
Dryer vent cleaning should be a part of regular home maintenance. Cleaning the vent will help keep the dryer running properly and your clothes drying normally in a regular cycle. In some cases, a clean vent may help your clothes dry faster. Dryer vent cleaning also lessens the risk of a dryer fire.
How often should a dryer vent be cleaned?
You should clean your dryer vent regularly, at least twice per year. The spring and fall are good times to have it cleaned out. Along with cleaning the lint trap with each use, twice-yearly dryer vent cleaning will help keep your dryer running properly. It can also help prevent dryer fires, which occur when the dryer vent clogs and causes the dryer to overheat.
To make sure your dryer runs properly, schedule a regular dryer vent cleaning in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ with the air duct cleaning professionals at DRX DUCT LLC. Call us today at (908) 755-2950 to schedule services.
How do you tell if your dryer vent is clogged?
Usually, when your dryer vents are clogged, you’ll begin to notice it takes twice to three times as long for your clothes to dry. You may also notice your clothes are not completely dry because the vent is unable to let the air out of the dryer.
On the other hand, if your clothes are completely dry, they may be way too hot or the dryer itself may be too hot. This may also be a sign the dryer vent is clogged. Another sign your vent is clogged is a burning smell. This indicates the lint is getting too hot, the dryer is working too hard, getting hotter than it should, burning the lint, and creating a major fire hazard.
Who does dryer vent cleaning
What is dryer vent cleaning and who does it? To answer the last question first: While homeowners can clean dryer vents themselves, getting a professional out will ensure the vent is thoroughly clean. NADCA technicians and companies like DRX DUCT LLC that specialize in cleaning air ducts will have the skilled professionals with the right tools to get the vent cleared.
Dryer vents can be anywhere between five and 40 feet long, and may have elbow joints and bends that will require special care to ensure lint and other debris are removed properly. Technicians use vacuums and snake brushes to get inside the vent pipe to clear away and clean the debris that clogs the vent. A professional can also run a diagnostic test once the vent is cleaned to test pressure, the amount of gases that escape into the home, and whether or not there are any gaps in the ventilation.
No matter whether it’s your dryer vent or roof vents, good ventilation is essential for your home. Good ventilation on your roof helps keep your home comfortable and energy efficient.
How do you clean a dryer vent?
Dryer vent cleaning requires the right tools and is best performed by a professional. The process is outlined below.
How dryer duct cleaning is accomplished:
Once the dryer duct is located, the dryer needs to be disconnected.
Vacuum the back of the dryer and visible debris from the duct.
Use a flexible lint brush with multiple segments to insert into the duct and duct pipe and spin it to clear out debris and lint. Professionals also use vacuum tubes to ensure the vent is cleaned thoroughly.
Follow up by cleaning the debris up and reconnecting your dryer.
How much does it cost to have someone clean your dryer vent?
Costs for dryer vent cleaning will vary depending on which company you choose. The average costs range from $125 to $175. Labor charges may apply. Some services will charge a flat rate if the cleaning is part of another service. Additional services like a diagnostic may cost extra.
Dryer vent cleaning and repair
Cleaning your dryer vent is essential to ensuring your dryer works properly. It’s also essential to prevent dryer fires, which can cause extensive damage to property and people. You also want to make sure your vent pipes and ducts are in good shape as well and any repairs are made as soon as possible. When you’re looking for affordable and thorough dryer vent cleaning in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ, you can always depend on the professionals at DRX DUCT LLC. Schedule a service with us by calling (908) 755-2950.
Your chimney isn’t just where St. Nick makes his way down on a cold winter’s evening, it’s where warmth and fire can spread into the rooms of your home. Yet beyond the cozy comfort of a fire, a chimney is a home system that needs to be checked up on just like any other system of the home. With fire comes soot, ashes and other components that need maintenance and our chimney cleaning services to periodically be incorporated into the home maintenance routine. It’s in this way that your chimney can be kept in proper working condition without causing harmful toxins from infiltrating the house or damaging other areas of the home systems. Chimney cleaning is essential in maintaining the health and safety of any home systems. Here is some helpful information that can prove essential the next time you require chimney cleaning.
How often should you have your chimney cleaned?
Chimney cleaning can vary in timeframe dependent on how often you use your chimney. What’s more, even if you don’t use your chimney often there can be other occupants such as squirrels, birds or raccoons that could be nesting and creating debris in it. The bare minimum chimney cleaning according to the National Fire Protection Association should be once per year as this can correct any unnatural clearances, check for deposits, cleanliness duties and bring up any needs for repair. According to the Chimney Safety Insitute of America fireplaces or chimney cleaning should occur when ⅛ inch of sot buildup is seen in the flue and chimney system. As of such, even if the build-up is less then ⅛ inches if any glaze is seen chimney cleaning should still be done. This is because of the fact that any buildup of soot or creosote can spark a chimney fire. With heavy use fireplaces, you can expect such cases of gallon buckets of material being removed, that’s why it’s important to know of your chimney use and how that affects soot and creosote buildup to unsafe levels.
What dissolves creosote?
Creosote naturally forms from the burning of wood from a fireplace or wooden stove. This substance can build up in chimney flies which leaves a potential for chimney fires. It’s therefore essential to remove buildup at least once a year. One way to do this is to burn aluminum cans in hot fires which can loosen creosote so it flakes and falls down into the fireplace or firebox. Although this is a good method it doesn’t clean the creosote off fully and a chimney brush will still be needed to ensure cleanliness.
Do chimney cleaning logs really work?
Although chimney cleaning logs carry a chemical catalyst which can reduce early stages of creosote buildup of up to 60% with repeated use, they won’t magically clean and clear out the build-up of your chimney. Soot and creosote build-up will still need to be cleaned.
Three Stages of Creosote Buildup
There are three stages of creosote build up that can affect the level of difficulty in cleaning it up. The first stage involves flaky soot that is easily removed with a chimney cleaning brush. The second stage involves more passage of time when flakes harden to tar which will need to be removed with specialized rotary tools. The final or third stage involves the creosote turning into a tar-like glaze that in most cases will require replacing the chimney liner.
Chimney Cleaning Steps
Get the right cleaning tools.
Get special brushes for the firebox.
Spread a tarp to minimize mess, tape it around the hearth.
Create an opening and insert a vacuum into the tarp.
Vent vacuum to the outside.
Brush the flue & relevant areas.
Run the vacuum to collect fall out.
Will a chimney fire burn itself out?
A slow burning fire may occur with your chimney and burn itself out yet this can be a danger as they aren’t as loud as free burning fires which sound like an airplane or other loud blazing noise. With a slow burning fire, you can still cause damage to your property as they still burn at high temperatures that can cause structural damage and catch on to flammable objects in your home.
How much does it cost to have your chimney cleaned?
A basic chimney cleaning or sweep can average $150-$250. Factors that can affect pricing can include the condition that your chimney is in, the type of chimney you have, if you have creosote buildup or if there are nesting/dead animals inside.
Contact A Professional For Assistance
When you’re in need of North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJchimney cleaning services than rely on DRX Duct Cleaning for chimney cleaning and inspection. Only through the help of a professional will you be able to have your chimney cleared of any potential dangers with your safety in mind. It’s important to realize that although some chimney cleaning equipment is available to the public only a professional will be able to determine if any build up or problems in your chimney would call for chimney cleaning and repairs. Learn more about Fireplace and safety tips & resources for homeowners. Chimney and venting certifications for industry professionals.
If you’re interested in chimney cleaning in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ call (908) 755-2950with DRX DUCT LLC!
What is the best energy efficient air conditioner?
When you have an energy efficient air conditioner, you’ll save money on your energy bills. There are several models of energy efficient air conditioners on the market today for both central heating and wall units. What you choose however, will depend on the size of your residence and what best fits your needs.
Among the highest Energy Star-rated central air conditioning units is the AirEase Pro Series 20 LX. According to Energy Star these units provide consumers with the maximum control of home temperatures, energy use and air quality. Cooling can be adjusted very precisely with these units. These models will save consumers on average about 30% on their energy bills.
Other consumer guides rate wall units like the Friedrich CPO6G10B, the GE AHM06LW and Haeir ESAQ406T as some the most energy efficient air conditioners on the market. The Friedrich is preferred for smaller rooms while the GE is ideal for larger spaces. The Haeir is rated highly for its quiet.
Air conditioner efficiency is always a factor when you are choosing a new system. Air conditioner efficiency helps cut down on energy bills. One way to help keep your air conditioner running efficiently is cleaning your vents. For expert vent cleaning in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ, give DRX DUCT LLC a call at (908) 755-2950.
Your home’s overall energy efficiency will also be affected by the condition of your windows. Window repair is an essential part of your home’s maintenance and maintaining energy efficiency.
What is the most energy efficient air conditioner?
As above, the most energy efficient air conditioner, according to Energy Star, is the AirEase Pro Series 20 LX series. Air conditioner efficiency is essential is vital for your home’s overall energy efficiency and keeping your home cool.
How can I improve my home cooling?
Improving your home cooling usually means maintaining air conditioner efficiency. Here are a few tips to keep your home cooling efficiently for little or no cost.
Clean outdoor condenser: Keeping the condenser clean and clear of debris helps it run more efficiently.
Vacuum indoor vents and keep from blocking them: Vacuuming dust and debris from vents maintains airflow. Furniture, blinds and toys should not block the vents for proper airflow.
Increase thermostat: Adjust the thermostat by turning it up 5 to 8 degrees in the summer. With automatic thermostat the temperatures can be adjusted for different times of the day or for times when you are out of the house.
Keep lamps and heat-producing appliances away from thermostat: Any heat-producing appliance, including lamps, can affect the thermostat. It will adjust to the heat.
Close curtains and blinds: Keeping curtains and blinds closed keeps outside heat from coming in during the hottest part of the day.
Flush the drain line: The drain, usually mounted above the furnace, can be flushed with a solution of one cup of chlorine bleach mixed with one gallon of water. This will also help keep the basement from taking on water if the drain line is blocked.
Reduce oven and dryer use: Use both appliances sparingly during the summer. Both increase the heat in your home.
Insulate ductwork: Any exposed ductwork that’s not insulated will leak air.
Why is my room so cold compared to the rest of the house?
Several factors could be affecting cooling throughout the house, causing one area like bedrooms to be cooler than the rest of the house. In some cases, your ductwork or the entire HVAC system is too small for the home. A larger system or a second system may need to be added.
If there are areas of exposed ductwork that’s not insulated, air may be leaking from those areas. Poor insulation throughout the home may also cause cold spots and affect your air conditioner efficiency. If you have a two-story home, heat will naturally rise to the upper story of the home. A room zoning system may alleviate the problem.
In most cases, the rooms closer to the thermostat will be cooler than those farther away. Other factors that may affect cooling include location and size of the windows in the home. Rooms with windows exposed to direct sunlight most of the day will be warmer.
Is it better to leave the AC on all day?
Air conditioner efficiency can be affected by leaving it on all day. It is actually a myth that leaving it on all day will save you money. Turning your air conditioner off while you’re gone all day may actually save you money. It takes no more energy to cool the house again when you get home than it does to leave it on all day. Additionally, leaving the system running all day puts more strain on it and shortens its lifespan.
Coming home to hot house, though, is not ideal either. You can save money with a programmable thermostat. The air temperature can be regulated for various times of the day. While you’re at work, the temperature can be increased and then returned to a normal level when arrive home or even before.
Air conditioner efficiency vs temperature?
The hotter it gets outside affects your air conditioner efficiency. The air conditioner works harder as it heats up. Regular maintenance will help keep your air conditioner working efficiently even during the hottest parts of the summer. Keeping the unit clean and clear of dust and debris, in particular, is an effective way to manage air conditioner efficiency.
High efficiency air conditioner vs. regular
Air conditioner efficiency can be affected by age. Older units may be less efficient, and cool less than newer high-efficiency units. A regular system that is 10 years or older may have a lower Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rate (SEER) than newer models. If your AC is 10 years old or older it probably has a SEER rate of 6 to 8, half of what a high-efficiency model will have. As the air conditioner ages, that rating can fall.
Best air conditioner efficiency
Air conditioner efficiency is usually determined by its SEER rating. Most modern systems have a SEER rating of 13 to 14. Some go as high as 25. The rating is determined by dividing the cooling output by the watt-hours consumed. Older units will have a SEER rating about 8 or 9. But no matter the rating, the best air conditioning efficiency will be achieved through operations. Leaving your AC running all day at a consistent temperature, for instance, is less efficient than programming it for varying temperatures during the day.
Air conditioner efficiency improvement
One significant way to improve air conditioner efficiency is to keep it regularly maintained. This means keeping the system clean, as well as making sure all the parts are in good working order. When parts are repaired or replaced as they wear out, then the air conditioner will run more efficiently.
When your air conditioner efficiency in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ is a concern, you may need to clean vents and ductwork to improve it and keep it cooling at peak levels. For vent and duct cleaning in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ, rely on the experts at DRX DUCT LLC. To schedule services give us a call at (908) 755-2950.
Do you have a fireplace in your home? If you do and use it with some measure of frequency, you’re going to want to acquire some basic maintenance skills. Treating this important foundation structure properly is key to house maintenance. According to a survey of almost fifteen thousand nationwide homeowners, the average chimney sweep cost is approximately $228. This average is based on an average of numbers, with the price vacillating between $125 and $332.
If you have a wood fireplace, it is highly advisable that you keep regular maintenance. Build-up from years of neglect could total as much as $800. While using a wood-burning fireplace in the winter can lower your electric bills, smoke in the stack leaves remnants of ash and carbon residue. This residue needs to be extracted at least annually because it can lead to chimney fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and a troubling lack of airflow.
Is it Safe to Clean Your Own Chimney?
When safety precautions have been put in place, and with a repertoire of handy knowledge, a safe cleaning can be accomplished. It is advisable to clean your chimney in the fall, before the burning season begins. Whether or not you choose to undertake chimney cleaning in Bridgewater, NJ yourself is ultimately up to you. There are a series of considerations to take under advisement. First of all, never clean your chimney with an active fire. The chimney should be cool, and no fire should be present. Also, wear protective eye and mouth gear, such as a dust mask. This is because you do not want to breathe in these pollutants. DRX Duct Cleaning has the correct tools to get this job completed successfully.
Do Chimney Sweeping Logs Really Work?
Creosote is the name of the filmy residue that is deposited in a flue by burning wood. When a sweep commences, creosote is the substance that needs to be removed. Creosote is a huge fire risk. Creosote sweeping logs are available on the shelves of many big-box stores. You may be wondering, as a consumer, if these logs really work. The verdict is in: yes, creosote logs work, but only up to a point. Creosote sweeping logs dry up the creosote in the fireplace. Once the creosote dries up, soot particles naturally fall into the fireplace. Burning a creosote log makes the next fire safer, and the next chimney sweeping easier.
How Often Should You Sweep Your Chimney?
this really depends on how often you use your chimney. The job of the chimney sweeper is to remove soot, built up creosote from your chimney liner, firebox, smoke chamber, and damper. Even if you only have minimal use of your fireplace, you should get an annual chimney inspection to make sure that all your systems are in working order. The National Fire Protection Association states that, “fireplaces shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.”
The CSIA, Chimney Safety Institute of America, has a more specific requirement, stipulating that fireplaces should be cleaned when there is an eighth of an inch of soot build-up found.
Common Issues
While it may not seem necessary to clean your chimney often, expect the following issues if you don’t:
Birds, squirrels, and raccoons making your chimney a makeshift home.
Blockages caused by branches, leaves, and outside debris. These blockages can cause critical problems.
Creosote possibly igniting a fire in your chimney due to the presence of build up.
Once again, creosote is a dangerous substance containing a high percentage of soot. The first layer of creosote can be removed with a chimney brush. If your chimney catches on fire, it is not a stretch for that fire to spread to your home, and for further damage to occur.
Metal roofing practically eradicates the chance of your roof catching on fire. Consult with a local, trusted roofer to begin a conversation to see if you would benefit from a metal roof.
What is Your Chimney Made Of?
In order to find out what it’s made of, let’s first diagram what kind of fireplace you have. There are two main types of fireplaces – masonry fireplaces and factory built fireplaces. A masonry fireplace possesses a firebox built of individual, generally yellowish firebrick, with a brick chimney above the roof. A prefab, or factory built fireplace generally has a firebox of cast refractory panels and generally speaking there is some metal visible in the room around the firebox.
Masonry composites are primarily made of brick and mortar. They usually have some sort of internal liner to protect the flue from damage. In factory made chimneys, the flue is made completely out of metal, and resembles a pipe or tube. This liner can be made out of clay tiles, aluminum or steel, or a cast-in place material.
The Flue
A flue is a duct, pipe, or opening that conveys exhaust gases from a fireplace. Flues can also transmit gases from a furnace, water heater, boiler, or generator to the outdoors.
How Do I Clean My Liner?
Cleaning a liner is a time-consuming process, but can be done. The first thing you need to do is remove the rain cap. Next, you will select the proper size nylon, poly, or natural bristle chimney brush to clean the liner. You will need to make sure that the brush head passes throughout the complete length of the liner, including the connectors, terminals and tees. Next, you will need to connect the cleaning brush to the end of the cleaning rod. Insert the brush down the flue from the top of the chimney. Guide the chimney brush up and down the flue.
You will want to add more cleaning rods to extend further down the chimney. After sweeping, use a shovel to remove the ash and creosote that has fallen from the flue.
The Brush
When choosing a brush for your fireplace, be sure to select a brush that fits accordingly with the size and dimension of your fireplace. The material of a chimney brush is usually composed of metal wire or polypropylene, and will suit the masonry or factory built origin of your fireplace. For masonry chimneys, metal wire brushes will be the ideal instrument for chimney cleaning. Likewise, for factory built chimneys, polypropylene, which will not be too harsh on the metal liner.
If you live in the North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ area, consult the professionals at DRX DUCT LLC for all your chimney needs. Call (908) 755-2950 today!
Squirrels are creatures that can be cute until they directly affect your home’s wear! They are naturally opportunistic scavengers that are always prepared to take the necessary measures required for food and shelter. Unfortunately, if they see the opportunity arise, they can also take residence in your home! It’s not unheard of to see a nest of birds in your gutters or eaves, with squirrels however you may find them in any nook or cranny of your home that has an opening. If they are in your attic or other places in your home where it can affect your home systems, squirrel damages may cause you problems.
Does homeowners insurance cover squirrel damage?
Generally speaking, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover rodent damages or removal. However, if you carry comprehensive insurance you probably are covered. Depending on the company you’re with, if damages are unexpected and sudden, repairs can be covered versus if it has occurred gradually over time (in which case they wouldn’t be.) If you undergo regular annual home inspections as recommended, you’ll be able to spot signs of damages earlier on.
What does squirrel damage look like?
Squirrel destruction to homes can range from exterior to interior damages that can affect your home’s structural make-up or systems.
Here are Signs of Squirrel Damage to Homes:
Chewed up fascia boards
Chewed attic insulation
Chewed wires
Exterior or interior damages such as holes or tears indicating entry points
Squirrels can carry diseases in their urine (Leptospirosis,) feces (Salmonella bacteria), and ticks (Lyme Disease) that can be detrimental to human health. Rabies is also a possibility for all rodents. Finally, the risk of Tularemia can come about from handling sick or dead animals.
As far as immediate dangers from squirrels, if they have rabies they may be more aggressive. Generally speaking, a bite from a rabies-infected squirrel won’t transmit the virus to a human but it can transmit it to your pets.
Can squirrels chew through walls?
Squirrels have a chewing drive due to their teeth that never stop in their growing process, that’s why they always need to be chewing on something in order to grind them down. When a squirrel gets stuck in a home and they are not finding sources of food, they will chew on anything in its way (besides harder material like metal) to get what they want. That being said, tearing through the inside of a sturdy wall from one side directly to the outside can be a feat. If there are already vulnerable areas such as cracks or holes, it would be easier for them to chew around it and make an opening for them to crawl through. They can also chew around plumbing vents, chimneys, ridge vents, shingles and ducts (Duct Cleaning.)
How do you get rid of squirrels naturally?
The best squirrel repellents are irritation (like offensive odors) or taste based. A natural squirrel repellent for example, can include diced chili peppers with added water in a spray bottle. The capsaicin in the pepper will create a burning sensation around the nose and mouth much like it does to humans. Spray it around your home and for upkeep make sure to spray it after it’s been raining. Another option can be dropping peppermint oil onto cotton balls or placing peppermint plants around your garden or home. Lastly, mothballs placed in wire mesh or nylon stockings around affected areas are great repellents too.
Squirrel Prevention
Remove food from your yard as that is the likely attraction.
If you have a bird feeder, squirrel proof it.
Place bird nets, chicken wire and fence stakes around plants they like to eat.
Seal any openings around your home with caulk and steel mesh wire.
Fill or cover roofing gaps with sheet metal flashing and a new shingle.
Make sure there are metal hardware clothes firmly behind and around the edges of soffits, gables, power vents and caps on chimneys gables, soffits, and power vents in the attic.
Squirrels naturally like to stick around environments where there is constant availability of food or shelter. As long as you take basic upkeep measures around your home or undergo home inspections, you’ll be able to prevent a squirrel infestation and the subsequent squirrel damages that come with it!
If you require duct cleaning in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ call (908) 755-2950with DRX DUCT LLC! If you want to remedy or prevent squirrel damages through your ducts or vents, this is a great option for you!
To ensure the health of inhabitants and the stable operation of the HVAC unit in your home, duct cleaning is crucial. Duct cleaning is associated with cleaning both the heating and cooling systems in your home; which includes air ducts, diffusers and grilles, cooling coils, heat exchangers, drip pans, fan housing and motor, and the entire air unit.
Most times the constituent parts of your HVAC system eventually will become polluted with debris, dust particles, and other foreign matter. Mold growth will flourish with even the slightest existence of water, thus allowing spores to be discharged into the air that you are breathing in- some spores will irritate allergies to anyone exposed.
You will receive countless offers from non professional companies out there. It is in your best interest to hire a company that is NADCA certified. Do not go with a company just because they are the cheapest. The idea is to get your money’s worth with a company that will get the job done according to industry standards. Professional duct cleaning is an extensive cleaning to ALL segments of your HVAC system using high end technology. Using a NADCA certified professional ensures that you are in the right hands and the job will get done perfectly the first time.
When do you need to clean Your Ducts?
You want the indoor air quality in your home to be at the top notch of the scale. Once you start noticing abnormal dust build up and can visibly see growth of mold/dust on your vents it is time to contact a professional. There are also parts of the HVAC unit that are not visible or accessible, so its advised that you contact a professional to assure you that your HVAC unit is the cleanest it could possibly be.
Keep in mind that getting your air ducts cleaned is also done as a precaution to having any issues with the performance of your HVAC system. Do not wait until problems arise before you get your air ducts cleaned. Its fundamental to have the system serviced as required, if not you could incur a lot of charges that could have been avoided.
Outstanding Duct Cleaning Services:
In order to attain the best professional duct cleaning service out there- again, make sure the company you choose is a NADCA certified company with a history of exceptional work. Check reviews and referrals from other customers. Also, be sure to ask whether a NADCA certified technician will be present in your home at the time of service. You want a company that is not going to overcharge you while also guaranteeing a job up to par with industry standards. Ultimately, seek out a company who has your best interest at heart.
There 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.
