Tag Archives: hvac

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.

Dampers, What Are they And What Should I Do With Them?

What Are Dampers And What Should I Do With Them?

Learn What Dampers Are and What To Do With Them.

A lot of air ducts systems contain dampers within the duct work. The purpose of the dampers is to control air flow, which in turn affects the temperature in the room. Rooms that either face the sun, or contain a lot of windows may need more AC in the summer, but less heat in the winter. A room with minimal to no sun exposure may need more heat, but less AC. This is where the dampers do their work.

Dampers are usually found where the main trunk line connects to the supply duct. (ductwork that supplies air to various areas of your home). You will see a lever that can be turned to adjust the position of the damper. You’ll want to turn this to a fully open position. If your dampers need to be adjusted seasonally, you may find it helpful to use a marker and mark the ductwork with what position the lever is in and mark its position optimal flow. It is also a good idea to write which area of your home this particular duct services.

Once the damper is open, go to the room it services (be sure the register or vent is fully open) and check the air flow. If you feel it is sufficient, leave the damper in this position. If it is a particularly sunny or warm space, you might want to adjust the damper. Repeat this process throughout your home until you have achieved your desired air flow.

Also, remember not to close off the dampers on your vent covers as they are the breathing point for your system. Restricting air to and from the furnace could put a heavy workload and increase pressure on your HVAC system!

If you need air duct cleaning in New Jersey, call DRX Duct today at (908) 755-2950 for a NADCA certified technician.

NJ’s Most Exclusive Duct Cleaning Company Offers First Class Service

Duct Cleaning Company Offers First Class Service

Duct Cleaning Company Offers First Class Service

DRX Duct Cleaning Company is located in New Jersey and is a family-owned ran operation. Our team has over 75 years of combined experience. We have performed more than 50,000 duct cleaning jobs in NJ. Our foundation is built on honesty, integration, and loyalty. Our company is kept small so we can overlook every job and be in connection with every customer. We supply quality service, and there are never any tricks or hidden charges. Our individually NADCA certified technicians symbolize our full commitment to providing you with the most thorough and professional services available. We are one of the very few companies who can guarantee a NADCA certified technician on-site at every job every time. Our strict quality control standards ensure that you, our valued customer, receive complete and unconditional satisfaction. Call us now at 908-755-2950 for a no-obligation free estimate, or for any questions or concerns regarding your indoor air quality.

What to expect when we arrive at your residential home in NJ.

While every job is unique, here is a general overview of our typical air duct cleaning process.

1. First, we will “zone” the HVAC air duct system’s supply and return sides. We use zone bags in order to get this done.
2. The vacuum will then be connected by using what’s called a connection collar, and then the vacuum will be turned on.
3. All supply registers will be closed off to maximize the negative pressure. At that point, we will then clean one duct at a time using this method: All supply ducts will be cleaned using our viper whip system where we snake down 20 plus ft inside every vent. This will disturb and dislodge all dust and debris in the main trunk lines.
4.When the supply branches are cleaned out, the main trunks and the plenum drop will be cleaned using high-pressure air compressed agitation air whipping tools.
5. When the supply side is cleaned completely, we will then start to work on the return side of the system. Like the supply side, the return side will also have a hole cut into it, with the vacuum being connected using a connection collar and the vacuum is turned on.
6. All return ducts will be cleaned using our viper whip system where we snake down 20 plus ft inside every event. This will disturb and dislodge all dust and debris into the central truck lines.
7. After all ductwork including the main truck, lines has been cleaned; the ductwork can then be sanitized or disinfected.
8. We then air wash cleaned the furnace, squirrel cage, and blower motor.
9. Finally, when the air ducts have been completely cleaned, all of the holes will be closed using high-quality sheet metal sealing off any leaks, making it easier to access the ducts for future cleanings.
10. A final walk-through is performed ensuring everything is clean before leaving.

You will not find another duct cleaning company in NJ that is as committed to professionalism and customer satisfaction as DRX Duct Cleaning! Our Google reviews speak for themselves. Give us a call today. Don’t let anyone but the best into your home! Contact us at (908) 755-2950 for the best duct cleaning company in New Jersey.

Should I Get My Air Ducts Cleaned?

Should I Get My Air Ducts Cleaned

Below Are Reasons You Should Get Your Air Ducts Cleaned.

Did you know that five to seven times a day, the air in your home circulates throughout a system of air ducts? As this air travels, it’s passing over dust, dead skin cells, dirt, allergens, hair, and other debris and respiratory irritants produced by everyday living? These respiratory irritants are left to collect in the ducts. This air then blows back out for you and your family to breathe in again.

Your furnace filter is meant to catch a lot of the debris, but poor maintenance, lack of proper precautions during remodeling renovation projects, or poorly installed ducts can lead to a buildup of unhealthy junk inside your ductwork that threatens the efficiency and lifespan of your HVAC system.

Are Dirty Air Ducts Bad For The Health Of You And Your Loved Ones?

While the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) states that as of yet, there are no current studies that prove air duct cleaning prevents health problems, some people will be more vulnerable to dust, pet dander, or other airborne particles than others. These include young babies and children, people with allergies, asthma, compromised immune systems, people with pre-existing respiratory conditions, and the elderly. For these people, cleaning the air ducts eliminates the contaminants that their air must pass over before it reaches them. If it makes your eyes water or nose itchy just thinking about what could be in your air ducts, hiring the right professionals to clean your home is a worthwhile investment. Before you call in the pros, take a peek to see if your ducts are dirty.

Take a Quick Look For Any Of These Symptoms

  • Visible dust, debris, or other particles that are blowing out of the supply registers
  • Mold growth on the inside of ducts.
  • dead insects or rodent excrement in the ducts.

Reasons To Clean Air Ducts

  • Cleaning the ducts will remove any accumulated dust or debris so they won’t continue to cycle through the house.
  • When you remove any debris, dust, or cobwebs, it increases airflow and the efficiency of your system, saving you money on energy costs, and increasing the lifespan of your system.
  • Are your ducts made from fiberglass? Fiberglass has a tendency to collect more dust than sheet metal, so it’s a good idea to have it cleaned regularly.

Choosing The Right Duct Cleaning Company

Beware of the fly-by-night companies who are not certified, offer low prices, and even lower quality of service — and in some cases, don’t do anything at all except walk through the house, and then leave with your money. There are many scammers out there. DRX Duct Cleaning is proud to be NADCA certified and guarantees a NADCA certified tech on-site at every job every time. We offer a variety of services including air duct cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, sanitizing, chimney cleaning etc. We are NJ’s most exclusive duct cleaning company. For more information, give us a call today at (908) 755-2950 to get your air ducts cleaned in New Jersey. We look forward to servicing you!

How Can I Prevent Mold Growth in My Home?

How Can I Prevent Mold Growth In My Home

Tips On How You Can Prevent Mold Growth.

There are many things you can do to reduce and prevent mold growth in your home. The best way to keep on top of things is through routine maintenance and cleaning. This way, in the event that something does happen, you will be more aware of when it happened, catch it before it gets out of hand, and possibly be able to pinpoint the root cause. Below are some suggestions on how to do this from your basement all the way to your attic.

• Many basements are damp and humid. This is an ideal environment for mold growth. Purchase a dehumidifier. Be sure to carefully follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning it, and remember to empty it daily.
• Add drain gutters to your drain pipes and make sure the water is diverted at least 5’ from the foundation of your home.
• Be sure your clothes dryer is properly vented. The dryer needs to be vented to the outside in order to properly control the amount of humidity in your laundry space.
• Seeing condensation on windows can be a clue of humid conditions in your home. The seal on the window could have been compromised, causing moisture to get inside. Should this be the case, it must be corrected ASAP.
• Examine your walls for wet streaks, spots, or stains. This could be an indication of a hidden leak which can lead to mold growth. Any wet spot should be thoroughly investigated.
• Use a flashlight to inspect underneath your kitchen and bathroom sink for leaky pipes. If you find any signs of leaking water, schedule your plumber to come out ASAP.
• Mold growth in bathrooms is very common. Be sure to turn on the exhaust fan, or open the window every time you shower. Be sure the exhaust fan is properly installed and venting outside your home, not into your attic.
• Keep floors, walls, ceilings, and furniture dry. If something does become wet, try to dry it out within 24 -48 hours. (This is the generally accepted time frame for mold growth after water intrusion.) Discard any furniture items that could not be dried.
• Use your kitchen exhaust fan to remove excess humidity created when cooking and washing dishes. Make sure your fan is properly installed to exhaust outside your home.
• On a low humidity day, open some windows and doors to allow fresh air to flow in.
• Roof leaks will leave stains on the ceilings and occasionally on walls. You may notice a dark spot or paint peeling. Do not simply paint over the stain. Uncover the cause and make the necessary repairs before it gets out of hand.
• Peek in your attic a few times a year just to be sure, even if you do not see any water marks on your ceiling.

Mold can also grow in your furnace and AC coils. Having your air ducts and coils cleaned every 2-3 years is a good idea to prevent any surprises. If you schedule a dryer vent cleaning with DRX at the same time as your air duct cleaning, you’ll also save money! We’ll also include free sanitizer. Call us today at (908) 755-2950 for air duct cleaning NJ.

Do I Have To Clean My Hot Water and Furnace Chimney?

Every year around the time the temperatures begin to drop, we all start to think about getting our fireplace, wood stove and furnace chimney inspected and cleaned. There’s more than one chimney that we need to be aware of, though. The truth is, a clogged hot water or furnace chimney can be extremely dangerous. Properly venting any fuel burning appliance is something to take very seriously.

How To Check For Clogs

Do I have To Clean My Hot Water and Furnace Chimney?

Do I Have To Clean My Hot Water and Furnace Chimney? Find Out Below!

If heat is bellowing out from the bottom of the smoke pipe on your hot water heater, it can mean there is a clog in the flue to the roof. If it feels unusually hot, call in your heating professional right away.

Place your hand in front of the burner section of your furnace. The excessive heat felt in this area can also be an indicator of a problem in the chimney. Newer furnaces have updated safety mechanisms that shut down the furnace. However, blocked chimneys in older heaters can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide. This is a deadly gas that is colorless, and odorless. It is very dangerous.

Inspect at the ground level to be sure your chimney caps are intact. Over time, caps can rot and a decent gust of wind can even blow them away. This is an important part of the cooling system in a metal chimney. Additionally, it prevents animals from seeking shelter in its warmth and serves to keep the weather out. A cap on a masonry chimney will also prevent animals and keep the weather out.

If your furnace has a masonry chimney, it should also be checked. Water vapor is a by-product of the combustion of natural gas. This water vapor can saturate the masonry inside the chimney. Over time, the acids in the water can damage the mortar.

It’s a good idea to make checking and cleaning your water and furnace chimney a part of your routine home maintenance procedures. Call DRX Duct Cleaning at (908) 755-2950 to set up your inspection and water or chimney cleaning today! And remember, if you suspect a problem with your hot water heater, call your plumber immediately. If you feel there may be an issue with your furnace, contact your HVAC professional. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

It’s almost time for Spring Cleaning

Spring Cleaning is just around the corner. The weather is starting to warm up, and we’re driving

with our windows down, taking in all that fresh air…but what about the air inside our homes?

How can we improve our indoor air quality?

Now that the weather is getting nicer, it’s a great idea to pick an especially nice day, and

open all the windows in your home. Let the stale air out, and new fresh air in. (If you have

allergies to pollen, we suggest doing this on a day when the pollen count is low, of course.)

Letting fresh air in is a great way to improve your indoor air quality. Try leaving the windows

open for at least 4-5 hours if you’re able.

Also, now is a great time to get your air ducts cleaned! Removing dust, dirt, dander, pet

hair, construction debris, allergens, and other possible respiratory irritants from your HVAC

system will not only improve your indoor air quality, but also the efficiency of your HVAC

system. As air flows through your duct work, it first passes over any debris coating the inside of

the system. Removing these contaminants leaves you with cleaner air to breathe! Freeing your

duct work of buildup also allows the system not to have to work as hard to maintain your

desired temperature.

As always, make sure you change your air filter every 3-6 months. An overly clogged air

filter will choke out and burn out your system, leaving you with a hefty bill to pay.

Remembering to change the air filter may seem trivial, but it is in fact a vital step to maintaining

the efficiency and lifespan of your HVAC system. Stay tuned to our blog for more information

on how you can improve your indoor air quality with simple home tips and tricks, proper

maintenance, routine servicing, and other helpful information!

Happy spring cleaning everyone!

Air Duct Cleaning NJ in Spring Season