Ventilation

My home is equipped with a forced air gas furnace and central air conditioning system.  This type of heating and cooling unit requires a duct system. The ducts are comprised of a branching series of pipes concealed within the walls, ceiling and crawl spaces.  Although they are largely tucked out of sight, they are extremely important. The ducts carry the heated and cooled air to vents located in every room in the house. The stale air is pulled out of the rooms by the return ducts.  The air my family breathes passes through the duct system multiple times per day. Any contaminants that are hidden inside the ducts influence indoor air quality. If there’s dust, dander, pollen, mold or bacteria within the duct system, harmful spores and allergens are introduced into the breathing air every time the furnace or air conditioner operates.  Plus, if there’s any holes or leaks in the duct system, unconditioned air can be drawn in. This often results in an abundance of dust, unpleasant odors and fumes. While problems with the ducts directly impact the cleanliness, health and comfort of the home, there’s also a safety risk. The combustion byproducts from any gas burning appliance, such as the furnace and clothes dryer can backdraft into the ducts. I make sure to have the duct system inspected by a professional HVAC contractor every couple of years.  Services such as duct sealing, cleaning or repair are sometimes necessary. These services typically prevent energy waste and pay for themselves. When the ducts are kept in good shape, there’s far less demand on the furnace and air conditioner.

AC equipment