SPRING / SUMMER -  Strata’s as well private homes with dryer runs over 15′ long.

THE SYMPTOM

Over time the exhaust grill and ducting fill with lint (the moving particles missed by the lint trap in the dryer). Overtime, the lint will plug up the grill causing back pressure in the dryer vent. The lint then starts compiling in the duct. This can cause the dryer to over heat, potentially causing a fire.

High Limit Thermostats can prematurely fail when subject to high ambient temperatures. Combustibles in the duct system (lint) will help fuel a fire.

THE SOLUTION

Having dryer vents cleaned as part of strata’s regular annual maintenance plan.

The trick to effective dryer performance is optimal air flow. To accomplish this equipment needs to be maintained and installed properly.

Cleaning the lint out of the dryer vents on a regular (annual) basis will allow the dryer of operate more efficiently, allowing clothes to dry quicker and safely, elimination the chance of a dryer fire and increased Hydro costs.

Contact A National Air Technologies Technician Today

Most people spend a lot of time in their homes. Your home’s furnace and air duct system works to keep you warm in the winter. Over time, dust, pollen and pet dander can accumulate. You should have your furnace and air duct cleaning scheduled regularly.

Removing excess dust and debris is important to improve your home’s indoor air quality. If you are sensitive to dust, pollen and pet dander, cleaning your home’s air duct system can help. Mold and fungal spores thrive in a dark and dusty environment. Children and the elderly are particularly susceptible.

The average household is in an environment that has more indoor air pollution than outdoors. Some of these contaminants include:

• pet hair,
• construction debris and bacteria.
• If your furnace isn’t ventilated properly, high levels of pollutants could be released into the air.

Two common methods of air duct cleaning are:

• Contact and
• power vacuum air wash cleaning.

The contact cleaning method usually involves a commercial truck mounted vacuum and keeps contact with the duct during the entire process. This method takes approximately 2-4 hours and is a less expensive option, though the cleaning is not as in-depth as the power vacuum air wash cleaning.

The power vacuum air wash cleaning method uses equipment to deep clean the entire system. This method usually takes about two to four hours for a typical home.

Frequently changing the filter on your furnace will help keep the system and the air ducts clean. After cleaning, your system will be more efficient, which will in turn save money on your energy bill.

When having ducts inspected during a cleaning, air leaks are sometimes found. A sealant could be applied to close them. It is a good idea to schedule your furnace and air duct cleaning as part of a regular scheduled maintenance routine.

Have the Ducts and Furnace Cleaned

Probably the most important thing you can do to keep the air fresh in your home, it is important to have the air ducts and furnace cleaned professionally. This should be done about every three years or so. Dust and mold can build up in the ducts and enter the living area when air blows through. Factors such as smoking, pets, and remodeling all increase the likelihood of buildup in the ducts.

Sweep and Mop Regularly

Keep floors fresh and clean to eliminate buildup of dirt and dust. Carpets are especially susceptible to accumulating high levels of air pollutants, which are then released when walked on. The pollutants fly in the air and then settle back onto the floor. Use a vacuum that includes a HEPA filter to increase indoor air quality while cleaning carpets.

Keep Out Moisture

Dander and dust mites love moisture. Use a dehumidifier year-round to keep humidity between 30 and 50 percent. Other tips include opening a window when cooking or baking and keeping drains clear to avoid standing water. Leaky plumbing or pipes are a major culprit of excess moisture, especially in basements. Make sure air conditioner drip pans are empty and do not over-water plants.

No Smoking

Smoking cigarettes or cigars will automatically reduce indoor air quality greatly. Smoke tends to settle on everything and contains thousands of unhealthy chemicals. These chemicals are harmful for both your health and the quality of air in your home. Do not allow guests to smoke in your home. If a smoker lives with you, insist he or she leaves the house to smoke.

Get a Few Plants

Plants naturally clean the air by breathing in old and stale air and releasing new oxygen. Plants can absorb volatile chemicals from the air without harm. Spider plants, bamboo, and English Ivy have all been listed by NASA as some of the best plants to improve air quality. NASA recommends a variety of 15 plants scattered throughout the house.