At Trio Heating & Air, we’re often asked about the cost of furnace cleaning services. A furnace cleaning is a minor expense compared to repairs and other projects, so it is worth it. Most basic residential jobs cost under $100 although more extensive cleanings can cost more. In this article, we’ll look at what factors impact the price, the furnace cleaning process, and the benefits of professional service.

Not All Furnace Cleaning Services Cost the Same

Your local heating company doesn’t likely charge a flat rate for furnace cleaning. There are several considerations when determining a fee. A contractor will use the following factors to decide on a rate:

• Type of Service: A minor cleaning doesn’t cost as much as cleaning out the interior of the furnace, its components, and connections.
• Unit Type/Size: The larger the unit, the longer the process takes and the more your heating company may charge. Gas and electric furnaces are typically easier to clean compared to oil furnaces with more parts to clean.
• Location of Furnace: A furnace cleaning service for a unit in an easy-to-reach area tends to cost less than for one in an attic or crawlspace.
• Labor: A contractor’s hourly rate can affect the cost of a furnace cleaning. It can vary by company and location. Rates and prices may also vary depending on the season.
• Discounts: A discount can save you a few dollars, especially if you combine a furnace cleaning with repairs or have multiple units serviced.

If a clogged oil line needs to be cleared, or a chimney cleaned, a contractor will charge extra on top of the price for a furnace cleaning service. 

Benefits of a Professional Furnace Cleaning Service

Professional service is worth the small investment for several reasons:

• Safety: A licensed contractor has the training and experience to clean your furnace safely. One mistake can lead to injury or worse. Aside from safety considerations during the process, they can also find and address hazards like carbon monoxide or gas leaks. 
• Save Time: Heating contractors know what to do and have cleaned many furnaces. They can get the work done in a fraction of the time, so you don’t spend hours figuring out how to access parts of your furnace or perform certain tasks.
• Efficiency: If a furnace is dirty or not maintained properly, it may not run as efficiently. As a result, your energy bills go up. When a professional cleans your furnace, they complete tasks that help it run at peak efficiency. The savings on your monthly energy bills over time certainly make the service worthwhile.
• Extend Your Furance’s Life: Since having your furnace cleaned professionally allows it to work more smoothly, less wear and tear can extend the unit’s operating life. Therefore, you can save on the cost of early replacement.
• Comfort: A clean furnace runs more reliably. It’s less likely to have performance issues or problems with airflow or heat distribution. The improvement in comfort during the colder months makes a furnace cleaning service worth it.

How to Maximize the Value of a Furnace Cleaning Service

To get the most out of a heater cleaning service, hire an HVAC professional. They are trained and equipped to inspect the unit for signs of excess dirt, wear, or corrosion. The flue and venting systems are also evaluated, as are the thermostat, safety controls, and electrical connections.

Once the inspection is completed, the cleaning process can begin. Heating technicians have specialized tools that help them effectively remove dust, dirt, and debris. They can also safely clean the burners, ignition system, blower motor, fan, and other components. A final check of the temperature, airflow, and pressure ensures the furnace works within the manufacturer’s specifications. The technician performs a final safety check as well.

To further maximize the value of a furnace cleaning, follow these DIY maintenance tips:

• Replace the air filter as often as recommended by the manufacturer or heating company.
• Clean dirt and clutter from the area around the furnace; keep flammable materials away.
• Check the thermostat and contact your local HVAC company if it’s not working properly.

Finding the Right Furnace Cleaning Company

A furnace cleaning service is worth it only if you find a contractor with the right credentials. These are the most important things to consider when deciding who to call:

• Certification by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC), National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), or other reputable organizations.
• Proper industry licensing and insurance, which protects your property and finances if an accident or damage occurs while the contractor is working.
• Experience with furnace cleaning services, as revealed by online reviews and references, and use of the latest techniques and equipment.

Schedule a Furnace Cleaning from Trio Heating & Air

We proudly offer a range of heating services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Our certified technicians provide comprehensive furnace cleanings and check for issues to correct before your furnace needs major repairs. To schedule a heating or furnace cleaning service in your home, use our booking tool or call (415) 532-2984.

Your local HVAC contractor will handle the installation of a whole-house air purification system. However, being prepared can make the job easier. Installing a whole-house air purifier is much more complex than setting up a portable model. It’s not something you want to do yourself, although the more you know, the more informed you are about a decision you can make. We’ll look at some important details to consider before choosing a system and scheduling installation.

Why Choose a Whole-House Air Purifier?

Standalone air purifiers can do a good job, but their coverage is typically limited. Installing multiple purifiers around your home can be tedious and expensive, not to mention waste energy. They may also not capture all the pollutants in the air.

A whole-house unit is installed directly in your HVAC system. Air is purified as it passes through the ductwork, which reduces air duct contamination and increases system efficiency. This also protects HVAC equipment from potential damage. The filtration element is a single unit that can clean all the air circulating through your home.

A Professional Evaluation

An in-home evaluation is a key step in preparing for whole-house air purification system installation. Your local HVAC company sends a technician to check numerous variables. In assessing your home, they look at the following factors:

• Size of the space the air purifier will serve.
• The number of air changes per hour is needed.
• Specific pollutants that must be targeted.

In addition, a professional determines the ideal location for the equipment. It should be installed where no obstructions restrict air intake or output. They will choose a location or suggest modifications so no furniture, curtains, or other items interfere with the unit. 

Decide on the Best System

Different types of whole-house air purifiers are available. They differ based on the types of particulates they’re most effective at removing. There is also a range of technologies. Here are a few types to consider as you prepare for whole-house air purification system installation:

• Filtration-Based Air Purifiers: A whole-house filtration unit removes smaller particles than a standard fiber-based filter. Some purifiers use a carbon filter, but others use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that remove the finest airborne particles, including dust, pollen, mold spores, and bacteria.
• UV-Based Air Purifiers: Using UV-C light, a UV air purifier can effectively neutralize organic pathogens and microorganisms. Many whole-house air purification systems combine mechanical filtration with ultraviolet light.
• Electronically Charged Air Purifiers: These use electrical energy to give particles a positive or negative charge, attracting them to a metal plate. This element must be regularly washed and replaced. The system works with large and small particles. 

Determine the Best Efficiency Rating for Your Home

Air purification systems are rated using a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the particles a filter can remove, but the more it can impede airflow and strain a heating or cooling system. 

A fiberglass filter typically has a 1-3 MERV rating. It can get clogged quickly and doesn’t capture many particulates. Filter changes are required about every 30 days. A pleated filter has a 7-12 MERV rating and can capture more pollutants. The most effective filtration systems have HEPA-rated filters with MERV ratings of 17 or higher. They can remove up to 99% of particles from indoor air, though they require a powerful HVAC system to maintain airflow and avoid equipment damage.

Therefore, consult with your HVAC contractor about whether your heating and cooling system is strong enough to work with a whole-house air purifier.

The Installation Process

Knowing the whole-house air purification system installation process can help you understand how to get prepared. You’ll need to clear a path for the installers from the front door to the area where they install the equipment. The space around the air handler or furnace must also be cleared of obstructions or clutter. 

While air scrubbers are mounted directly within the ductwork and air cleaners between the return ducts and air handler, whole-house air purifiers are different. If installed the same way, they’d restrict airflow too much. The system cannot be connected directly to your ductwork; the blower could be overloaded. A residential HVAC system isn’t strong enough.

Therefore, some preparation is required beforehand. The air purification system must be installed as a bypass, which requires the following steps:

• Cut two circular holes in the return plenum.
• Connect the purifier to the plenum with flexible ducting.
• Set up one flex duct to supply air to the purifier.
• Attach the other flex duct to the return duct.

One tube delivers air directly to the purification system. Meanwhile, the second flex tube delivers clean air to the return duct. As the HVAC system runs, the blower creates suction so air can be drawn through the filter. An electric fan blows clean air into the return ductwork.

Do I Have as Much Filtration As I Need?

Whole-house air purifiers are complex and not cheap. Therefore, research each type of system and carefully consider the model you install. The typical air purification system has a series of filters. This enables them to trap various-sized particles. 

A pre-filter traps pet hair and other large particles and in most units, air then passes through a HEPA filter. Some units contain a carbon filter to trap odors. Others use catalysts and UV light to eliminate organic pollutants, including microorganisms and volatile organic compounds.

Prepare Your HVAC System

Depending on your heating and cooling system, it may need to be prepared before a whole-house air purifier can be installed. Any required modifications ensure safety, efficiency, and optimal indoor air quality. Some services that can be suggested include air duct cleaning or replacing existing filters. A technician may also inspect electrical components and connections to ensure there are no hazards or code violations.

Consider the Cost-Benefits

Whole-house air purifiers can cost thousands of dollars. You can prepare by budgeting and considering the benefits of such an investment. For example, the removal of particles and other pollutants can protect your HVAC system from damage. It can avoid costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and have health benefits. Therefore, while the initial investment may be high, the cost of frequent repairs, high utility bills, and indoor air quality-related medical expenses may be eliminated.

Hire a Local HVAC Contractor 

Aside from installing equipment, a professional helps plan and prepare for whole-house air purification system installation. They are trained in every part of the process. Using the proper tools and techniques, they ensure the unit is compatible with your HVAC system, properly connected, and sealed to avoid air leakage and contamination. A reputable contractor can be found through online reviews, friends and family members, and by contacting the business directly and assessing its quality of service.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

At Trio Heating & Air, we provide whole-house air purification system installation and maintenance services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. We use cutting-edge equipment to eliminate a wide range of airborne impurities. Our comprehensive installation process includes an indoor air quality assessment and finding equipment suited for your home and HVAC system. You can also depend on our team for professional air duct cleaning and filter replacement. To learn more or request an assessment, contact us or call (415) 480-7741.

A winter maintenance checklist helps ensure your heating system is ready for high demand during the colder months. Without one, subtle signs your furnace isn’t working correctly can be missed. Dirt, leaks, and mechanical or electrical issues can lead to bigger problems. However, DIY and professional heating maintenance can avoid an emergency, furnace breakdown, or costly repair or replacement.

Below is a winter maintenance checklist that includes DIY tips and tasks a professional performs during an annual heater tune-up:

Home Heating Maintenance Checklist

It’s important to avoid disassembling or tinkering with your furnace. However, the following steps are safe for any homeowner to follow:

• Check the Filter: Generally, an HVAC filter should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, as a buildup of dust, dander, and other airborne particles can block airflow. A fresh filter can improve efficiency and reduce wear and tear on your furnace.
• Inspect the Pilot System: If your furnace has a pilot light, it can work only if the flame is lit. Turn off the power to the system and wait a few minutes so the gas has safely dissipated. Then, open the front cover and check the flame. If it’s out, press the reset switch and relight it by holding a match or lighter over the pilot light opening. 

Call a professional if the pilot light can’t be relit or the flame is yellow.

• Check the Flame Sensor: In a gas-powered furnace, the flame sensor registers when the gas valve is open, allowing the system to run. A malfunctioning sensor can affect temperature regulation, furnace safety, and energy costs. If the sensor is dirty or damaged, call a local heating contractor to clean or replace it.
• Test the Thermostat: To determine if your thermostat is working, set it to “Heat” mode and raise the temperature setting by 5℉ to 10℉. The furnace should quickly start up. If not, the thermostat may be malfunctioning or have faulty wiring and must be repaired. 
• Check for Gas Line Issues: The gas line should be inspected at least once a year. Start with the shut-off valve and check for any damage. A propane or rotten egg smell means you have a gas leak. Call for help immediately if there’s an odor or you hear a hissing sound.
• Inspect the Heating Unit for Leaks: A water leak from a furnace is a common problem, especially if you have a high-efficiency model. Leaks can originate from a clogged drain line, a damaged condensate drain pan, or a faulty humidifier. If it’s leaking, your furnace can be severely damaged. The problem can also lead to mold, so call a heating repair professional.
• Listen to Your Furnace: Call a repair company if the unit is making booming, squealing, clicking, and other strange sounds.

Non-Furnace Heating Maintenance Tips

Your winter maintenance checklist should go beyond your furnace. Here are various tasks that can help your heating system work more smoothly and efficiently:

• Check Air Vents: Clean any air vents clogged by dust or debris. Also, move any furniture, draperies, or boxes placed in front of a vent. Make sure all return and supply registers are open as well.
• Look for Duct Leaks: Inspect visible ductwork for signs of air leakage, such as holes, tears, and loose connections. Small holes can be sealed with mastic. Call a professional to handle more significant issues. 
• Seal Windows and Doors: Leaks from window and door frames can cause heat loss, strain your furnace, and increase energy costs. Light a candle near frames to find drafts. They can be sealed with caulking, plastic, or weatherstripping. You can also use heavier draperies or curtains to cover windows.
• Check/Improve Insulation: In The Bay Area, insulation should have an R-value of R38 if your attic is insulated or R49 if it’s uninsulated. Add insulation to any drafty areas and replace torn or missing insulating materials. You can cover pipes with tubular insulation to prevent freezing and bursting.
• Clean the Gutters: Check your roof gutters throughout the winter and remove any snow, ice, or debris. Melting snow can freeze in the gutters, blocking drainage and causing roof damage. This can lead to temperature control issues and water damage to your home and outdoor HVAC unit.

Schedule an Annual Tune-Up

A local HVAC contractor should inspect and service your heating system every fall. During an annual tune-up, they will follow a professional winter maintenance checklist that includes the following:

• Vacuum the Inside of the Unit: A technician has the knowledge and equipment to safely access internal components and clear dust and debris.
• Inspect Vent and Flue Pipes: Properly inspecting these and removing any obstructions prevents backdrafts and other hazards.
• Clean the Burners: Dirty burners must be removed and cleaned. Once reinstalled, clean burners contribute to more efficient heat transfer.
• Check for Gas Line Leaks: A gas leak can trigger a fire or explosion and expose you to toxic fumes. Inspecting gas lines ensures your furnace is safe to operate.
• Check/Adjust the Fan Switch: This ensures optimal air velocity, which impacts comfort and efficiency. The fan switch may need to be adjusted if you upgrade the air filter.
• Adjust the Pilot Light (If Necessary): The right setting avoids false sensor readings. Burners can also ignite more efficiently.
• Lubricate Bearings and Other Moving Parts: Lubricating internal components reduces friction and allows your furnace to operate more smoothly.
• Tighten Fan Belts and Pulleys: A heating technician checks fan belts and pulleys and tightens them if necessary, which prevents them from breaking and damaging other components.
• Inspect Wiring and Electrical Components: Loose connections are tightened, and damaged wiring is replaced to avoid furnace failure or a fire.
• Clean the Humidifier: If your heating system has a built-in humidifier, the contractor inspects and cleans it.
• Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: The technician makes sure the alarms are working and replaces the batteries if necessary.

Schedule Heating Maintenance with Trio Heating & Air

We are a leading HVAC company in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Our licensed technicians follow a comprehensive winter maintenance checklist to ensure your furnace is working properly. They take steps to improve efficiency, prevent breakdowns, and increase equipment lifespan. Trio is committed to delivering professional air conditioning and heating services and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Continue browsing to learn about what furnace cleaning costs. To schedule winter heating maintenance, book your appointment or call (415) 532-2984 today.

Short cycling, which is when your HVAC system turns on and off too frequently, is a common problem. It can be harmful to your heating and cooling system and signal a variety of issues. Some of these can require air conditioning repair, so you don’t want to ignore a unit that has short cycles. 

At Trio Heating & Air, our licensed technicians can quickly diagnose the underlying issue and provide any repair necessary. We recommend scheduling service before the damage adds up and leads to more costly repairs. But let’s explain the issue further to help you understand its scope and causes.

What Is Short Cycling?

An HVAC system runs for a time, then turns off before turning on again if your thermostat is in “Auto” mode. One on/off period is called a “cycle”. It should last from 20 to 30 minutes, so your heating or cooling unit cycles two to three times per hour. 

The system should turn off when the set temperature is reached. While actual cycle times can vary depending on your system and home, problems can occur if your HVAC unit runs too briefly. If it does, this is called short cycling. It can cause the system to use more power, increase your utility bill, and limit cooling or heating performance.

Short cycling occurs most often with single-stage systems. They only turn on and off, so an AC runs at full blast every time it’s too warm. Two-stage systems have more flexibility to adjust to conditions, while variable-speed ACs and furnaces run at incremental power levels, eliminating the need for cycling. They can stay on all the time but use less energy.

Can Short Cycling Damage My HVAC System?

When an HVAC unit short cycles, it turns on and off again repeatedly in quick intervals. The compressor continuously starts up and shuts down. This not only wastes energy but also overworks the system. Parts of the compressor can wear out quickly. Or, the compressor can overheat and burn out, leading to one of the most costly AC repairs.

The constant starting and stopping can also accelerate wear on other components. This means you may eventually deal with more frequent repairs. Addressing the issue can avoid needing another repair shortly after your HVAC unit is fixed.

Reasons Your HVAC System Can Short Cycle 

One or more issues can cause your cooling and heating system to short cycle. Therefore, short cycling can signal that there are multiple issues with your HVAC system. Here are some reasons the unit won’t stay on long enough.

• Dirty Filter: Air filters should be changed at least once every three months (or sooner). Otherwise, they can become clogged with dust, dirt, pet dander, particles from cooking smoke, and other contaminants. A dirty filter can cause your HVAC unit to short cycle because limited airflow makes things warmer, causing the system to overheat and shut down.
• Frozen Coils: Short cycling is one of the effects of faulty AC coils. A coil can freeze simply because it’s too cold outside. However, it can also be due to restricted airflow or a refrigerant leak. If a coil freezes once, turn the unit off to thaw it out. If it freezes repeatedly, call a professional.
• Refrigerant Leak: A leak in a refrigerant line can prevent your HVAC system from drawing heat out of your home. Topping off refrigerant has a limited effect because it circulates in a closed loop. You should never need to add any. This means there’s a leak, and your AC can become overworked and shut off. 
• Leaky Air Duct: Short cycling can also be caused by a leaky air duct. Metal ductwork can corrode and develop holes over time; duct sections can also become disconnected. If you have air ducts with a metal coil supporting an insulated plastic wrap, the outer wrap can break down and crack over time. Any duct leak can cause conditioned air to escape and untreated air to enter, forcing your heating or cooling unit to work harder.
• Faulty Thermostat: An aging thermostat can malfunction and cause your HVAC unit to turn on and off unexpectedly. It may have an analog dial or slider that’s not as accurate, causing performance issues. But even if you install a digital or programmable thermostat, placement is always a factor. If the unit is in direct sunlight, near a draft, or close to a heat-generating appliance, it can send the wrong signals to your HVAC system.
• Electrical Problem: An electrical issue, such as one originating in the thermostat or with one of its connections, or a malfunctioning capacitor, fuse, or circuit board, can also cause an AC or furnace to short cycle. Bad wiring can also be a factor. 
• Oversized HVAC Unit: If the system is oversized, it can reach the set temperature too quickly. The thermostat then shuts the unit off. Conditioned air may barely reach other rooms before the system turns back on. Therefore, your HVAC system has short cycles and the only solution is to modify or replace it.

You’ll save time and money by planning for installation with a Manual J load calculation. It helps your local HVAC contractor properly size your new system. Short cycling and other issues can be avoided.

How Do I Know My AC/Heater Is Short Cycling?

If you notice your cooling or heating system turning on and off every five to ten minutes, it is short cycling. It isn’t always an obvious issue, especially if your HVAC system is relatively quiet or its familiar sound blends in with background noises. Subtle signs include a slight decrease in cooling or heating performance. Increased humidity, which can make your home quite uncomfortable, is another sign your AC isn’t running long enough. 

Can Short Cycling Be Prevented?

Short cycling can be bad for your HVAC system. However, it can be prevented and there are solutions to address it, including the following:

• Schedule regular maintenance with your local HVAC contractor.
• Change the air filter as recommended.
• Have a professional check the low-pressure control switch.
• Relocate the thermostat to an open room.
• Install a portable or whole-home dehumidifier.
• Properly seal leaky air ducts.
• Install an HVAC system that allows zoning.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

If your HVAC system is short cycling, our licensed technicians can determine why and perform the appropriate adjustments or repairs. We not only ensure your satisfaction but also the optimal performance and efficiency of your AC or furnace. The goal is to find the best solution for your home. For reliable air conditioning services throughout The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, call (415) 942-9188, contact us, or book your appointment today.

The air scrubber installation process requires a professional. However, we find many customers are curious about the steps involved. An air scrubber is a highly effective indoor air quality solution that can remove allergens, microorganisms, and odors from within your ductwork. Trio Heating & Air has experienced air scrubber installers who ensure residents in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area have cleaner air to breathe.

What Does an Air Scrubber Do?

An air scrubber is an advanced filtration system. It combines higher efficiency filters than your HVAC system’s standard filter elements. Photocatalytic oxidation is often achieved by using ultraviolet (UV) light. Oxidizing agents are produced that destroy microorganisms and other organic pollutants. The system also removes dust, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and other contaminants that can cause allergies and health issues.

The Air Scrubber Installation Process

Installing an air scrubber requires lots of considerations. There are different types of air scrubbers depending on your home and its indoor air quality. Once you select a unit, the installation process requires various tools and materials; these include a screwdriver or drill, a sealing material, and hardware such as mounting brackets. Additionally, installers wear gloves, safety glasses, and other protective gear.

These being considered, here’s a look at the installation process:

Choose the Right Air Scrubber

Selecting the right equipment for your home is crucial before the air scrubber installation process begins. Air scrubbers are rated by how much air they can purify in cubic feet per minute. Therefore, the size of your home is a factor in selecting a unit. Also, the larger it is, the more you’ll have to invest, so your budget is a consideration.

Other factors involved in selecting an air scrubber include:

• The layout of your home
• Specific air quality concerns
• The health needs of your household
• How much pollution is present
• Airflow/speed adjustment for noise control
• The manufacturer’s warranty

Prepare Your Home

Once you select an air scrubber and schedule an installation date, it’s time to ready your home so the HVAC contractor’s work is easier. Take the following steps to make things simpler for them:

• Find a Place to Install the Unit: An air scrubber is most effective when installed in your HVAC system. They can be placed in a basement or centralized location. Wherever you choose, that spot should allow for optimal airflow and be accessible for filter changes and other maintenance.
• Clean the Installation Area: Be sure to clean any dust or debris and remove obstacles that can interfere with the installer’s job. You’ll create a clean and safe work environment for them and help the air scrubber installation process go more smoothly.
• Turn Off Your HVAC System: This step is easily forgotten. But if your HVAC system is on, integrating an air scrubber can trigger an accident such as electrocution. Therefore, turn off the HVAC unit before the installer arrives.

Position the Unit

An air scrubber must be properly positioned so it can work effectively. The ideal spot for a residential unit is the return air duct. While a portable or standalone model should be positioned in the center of a room or area where pollution is high, an integrated one should be installed near the HVAC unit. This maximizes its efficiency.

Mount the Air Scrubber

The manufacturer should supply mounting brackets or other hardware to secure the air scrubber. The device integrates directly with the air handler or furnace. Proper mounting ensures the unit is stable and supported. This also enables it to operate seamlessly as it cleans the air that passes through your ductwork. 

Attach It to Your Ductwork

An air scrubber is attached to air ducts using screws or brackets. Still, some gaps can remain. They can be sealed with duct tape or other sealing material, which prevents air leaks that can reduce efficiency. 

The individual air scrubber model should come with an installation guide for the technician to follow. Most systems have a UV light. It is installed near the air handler, where it can effectively break down airborne contaminants.

System Testing

When they complete an air scrubber installation, the contractor powers on the unit and tests it. They can verify whether it’s operating correctly and that air flows through the unit as intended. If there are issues with the device powering up, airflow is restricted, or something else isn’t right, the technician will take the appropriate steps to address it. 

Filter Installation

Air filters are installed per the HVAC system’s and air scrubber’s manufacturer. High-efficiency particulate air, or HEPA filters, have specific installation requirements. Installing them correctly increases efficiency further. The technician will also explain how long filters should last and how to know they need replacement.

Final Evaluation

During a final check, the contractor will verify all connections are secure. If no air leaks are present, they proceed with checking whether the unit operates quietly. They may also take other steps to ensure it’s running efficiently.

Advice on Operating Your Air Scrubber

The installer should explain how to use the air scrubber before they leave. Some of the points they may discuss include the following:

• Powering It On: Depending on the model, it may start automatically or have a power button. Either way, it must be plugged into a power source.
• Adjust the Settings: The technician should walk you through how to adjust airflow, fan speed, and purification levels. Many units have higher settings for use in rooms with higher allergen or pollution levels.
• Air Quality Monitoring: If your air scrubber has a built-in air quality monitor, indicators can show you if pollution is present and if settings need to be adjusted. 

In addition, your air scrubber installer should explain basic maintenance steps. These include checking and replacing filters, ensuring the air intake and output aren’t blocked, and cleaning the unit’s exterior. The technician may also discuss when to schedule HVAC unit and ductwork maintenance.

Why You Need an HVAC Technician

It’s essential to pick the right professional. If you don’t have experience or allow an unqualified person to install an air scrubber, it may not purify the air in your home. It can also become a safety hazard. But at the very least, you risk wasting time and money.

When selecting a company, research its experience and track record with air scrubber installation. The technicians should be familiar with the make and model. Also, check the company is licensed, insured, and has positive reviews, ensuring you have a qualified professional who can help select, install, and test your air scrubber. This ensures it works effectively and efficiently over the long run. 

Contact Trio Heating & Air

Our team is committed to exceptional customer service whether installing HVAC systems or providing indoor air quality solutions. These include air sealing, air duct cleaning, and installing whole-house purification equipment and air scrubbers. To learn more or inquire about the air scrubber installation or air duct cleaning cost, contact us or call (415) 942-9188.

The link between efficient heating and air duct cleaning may become more evident as the days get cooler. Duct cleaning is more than about reducing dust. It can improve your HVAC system’s energy efficiency and performance. The duct cleaning professionals at Trio Heating & Air help achieve these results by removing contaminants and addressing issues that increase energy consumption and utility costs.

A Look at How Air Ducts Work

The potential to save energy is just one thing you need to know about duct cleaning, but it is a significant benefit. Before exploring this connection further, we’ll explain briefly how air ducts work.

When your heater switches on, the return vent draws in indoor air. This air travels through return ducts to a furnace or heat pump. Once it’s warmed, the air is moved to the supply air ducts. It then enters rooms via the supply vents.

The smoother the interior of a duct, the less friction that can slow the air. Dust, dirt, debris, microbial growth, and other contaminants can disrupt airflow when they accumulate on surfaces. This makes your HVAC system work harder and consume more energy.

How Air Duct Cleaning Yields More Efficient Heating

The dirt and debris in your ductwork are hidden. Since your ducts are concealed, you may not be aware of excessive buildup. However, your comfort may start to decline. But without a good look at your ducts, it’s hard to know the source of the issue. 

Staying warm is just one side of the story. There’s a strong connection between efficient heating and air duct cleaning. Let’s look at this link by explaining how duct cleaning can have a positive impact on your heating system, home, and the environment:

Improve HVAC Unit Performance

In dirty ducts, friction slows the air, while excessive buildup can block airflow. Your heating unit will struggle if too little air reaches it. Duct cleaning restores airflow, which helps reduce the load on your heater. This optimizes efficiency because energy consumption is less than it otherwise would be. The unit also won’t run as frequently or turn on and off as often, which saves energy. It can operate at its rated energy efficiency level.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

If your air ducts are dirty, dust and other pollutants can spread throughout your home. Other than air filters, which mainly protect internal HVAC components, indoor air quality equipment is usually installed at the return duct. This only protects the system from one location. Most of your ductwork is unprotected. 

Poor indoor air quality and reduced heating efficiency have a positive correlation. If the air in your home is dusty or otherwise contaminated, your heating system is likely inefficient. Duct cleaning can address both as dirt can accumulate anywhere in your ductwork.

Limit the Insulating Effect of Contaminants

Contamination inside air ducts can act as an insulator. This restricts your HVAC system’s ability to transfer heat. It may generate sufficient warm air, but dirty ducts make it difficult to distribute this air. Regular duct cleaning can help optimize heat transfer, maintaining your thermal comfort.

Keep Your Heating System Efficient for the Long Term

Air duct cleaning can reduce strain on HVAC components. Without the excessive wear on fans, motors, etc., the entire system can last longer. You not only benefit from consistently lower energy bills. Clean ducts also help save on repair costs and avoid early system replacement. Therefore, you can save thousands in operating costs over the life of your heating unit.

Make Your Home More Sustainable

Environmental sustainability is another consideration with heating and air duct cleaning. The cleaner your ducts, the more efficient your HVAC system is, and the fewer greenhouse gas emissions it produces. This has a positive effect on the environment. You can achieve cost-effective heating and help contribute to a greener future. 

Should I Have My Air Ducts Cleaned?

If your home isn’t warm enough, have your air ducts checked. Schedule a duct cleaning if you see excessive dust or your air ducts are filled with cobwebs, dirt, or debris. Moldy ducts can also cause inefficiencies and indoor air quality issues, so don’t hesitate to call for help. Fiberglass ducts tend to collect more debris than metal ones. If your ductwork consists of fiberglass elements, consider checking it more frequently.

How Often Should I Schedule Air Duct Cleaning?

Air duct cleaning isn’t included in most annual service plans. It’s also not recommended as often as HVAC maintenance. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends it every three to five years. However, depending on your home (its cleanliness, occupancy, and general environment), more frequent duct cleaning may benefit you.

Can Duct Cleaning Alone Improve Efficiency?

Numerous factors influence your heating system’s efficiency. Duct cleaning allows an HVAC technician to check for other issues. If necessary, they can recommend and perform duct sealing to prevent conditioned air from escaping the system so it doesn’t work as hard. Insulating air ducts, particularly those in attics, crawlspaces, and other unconditioned spaces, can protect against temperature fluctuations and regulate the environment in your home.

Therefore, improving efficiency is a multi-faceted process. But you must start somewhere.
There’s a strong connection between efficient heating and air duct cleaning, so don’t forget about your ductwork.

Schedule Duct Cleaning with Trio Heating & Air

Our experienced duct cleaning contractors help residential customers throughout the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Whether your HVAC system’s performance or efficiency has declined, your home was recently renovated, or your ducts have never been cleaned, our team is ready to get to work. They can also provide duct sealing and repair as needed. Additionally, we provide air purifier installation and other indoor air quality services and can help install, maintain, and repair your heating system.

For more information or to schedule service, contact us or call (415) 599-1579.