subject: Dryer vent cleaning, AC duct cleaning, HVAC contractors [print this page] Every home leaks air, whether it's an apartment, condominium, stick built home or mansion. It's an unavoidable fact of life. Air leaks aren't all bad. They do help circulate fresh air into homes and reduce indoor pollutants. We need fresh air in our homes to be healthy. There is a big difference between voluntarily opening a window or door for fresh air and having air leaks.
Unfortunately, air leaks are expensive and make us all uncomfortable during the long, frigid winter months. It's not unheard of to have $600 utility bills to pay for heating in leaky older homes. It's best to fix the leaks permanently using a good carpenter.
The worst air leaks in older homes come from rotten or ill-fitting doors and windows. To replace one window in your home usually costs between $250 and $450, though large windows or bay windows cost much more. If that price is unaffordable, try replacing windows one at a time throughout the year. Even replacing one or two windows in your home per year can make a huge difference in the comfort level and heating costs associate with winter time.
Sometimes replacing even one window just won't fit in the budget, or you rent your home rather than own it and refuse to pay for repairs on a home that isn't yours. In this case, spray foam insulation, caulking and plastic window kits can help out quite a bit. If you rent your home, your landlord should either pay a repairman to winterize the home, reimburse you for your time, supplies and efforts or take the costs off your rent. Whether you rent or own your home remember to keep your receipts for all home repairs, as some of the items you purchase may be tax deductible or give you a tax credit.
Another culprit of air leaks in the home is old, leaky air ducts. HVAC contractors should be called in the spring and fall to prepare and winterize air conditioners and heating systems. Air duct cleaning, leak repair and dryer vent cleaning should also be performed. There are relatively new products available through AC contractors to seal off leaking air ducts where they connect to one another. The product is akin to tar and should only be applied by a professional.
Dryer vent cleaning and AC duct cleaning should be should be done by professional HVAC contractors. Dryer vent cleaning not only prevents fires, but helps determine whether or not dyers are vented properly. An improperly vented dryer can lead to air leaks, mold growth and more.
Duct cleaning should be performed to help improve indoor air quality, which is especially important during the winter months. Your HVAC contractors should be able to detect and repair any problems with air leaks while they are cleaning.
Dryer vent cleaning, AC duct cleaning, HVAC contractors
