Bacteria, mold, mildew and other biological growths can thrive in ductwork due to its cool, dark, moist environment. While a professional duct cleaning can remove mold and mildew, it doesn’t guarantee that there won’t be another occurrence of growth, nor does it eradicate the biological contamination. To truly remove biological contamination, and to protect against further growth, you may want to consider duct sanitizing for your air conditioning system.
What Is Duct Sanitizing?
Duct sanitizing is a multi-step process in which an EPA-approved chemical sanitizer(s) is thoroughly applied to the inside of your ductwork to eliminate germs and biological growth, and prevent the development of new growth. Each vent is treated individually, and the application of the sanitizer usually needs 10-15 minutes to cure.
What Types of Sanitizers Are Used?
There are 3 main types of sanitizers that can be used on your ductwork:
- EnviroCon – EnviroCon is used to eliminate odor-causing microorganisms and contaminants such as mold and mildew; it can also treat bacterial growth. EnviroCon eliminates odors via a chlorine dioxide release-process that destroys organisms at the cell level. EnviroCon has low toxicity and a good safety rating from the EPA.
- Microban – Microban is used to eliminate most fungi, bacteria and viruses. Microban kills allergy and disease-causing germs, odors, and growth like mold and mildew. Microban is only available through professional cleaners and restorers. It is labeled as safe by the EPA.
- F.P. sanitizers – F.P. sanitizers are concentrated liquid sanitizers used for sanitizing pre-cleaned surfaces in air ducts and air conditioning systems. They contain surfactants (compounds that act like detergents) that give them additional cleaning power. These types of sanitizers are labeled as safe by the EPA.
Benefits of Duct Sanitizing
- Healthier air – your ductwork is the delivery system for all the air in your home; if it’s clean, you air will be, too.
- Keeps ductwork clean – sanitizers have a lasting effect, so they help keep your ductwork free of contamination after application.
- Reduction of allergens – allergy-inducing particles are eradicated during sanitizing, helping to reduce allergic reactions to the air in your home.
If healthy indoor air is a priority for your home, you might want to consider scheduling professional duct sanitizing for your air conditioning. Have questions? Call Downtown Heat & Air today and speak with one of our Orlando, FL air conditioning service professionals.
