When searching for air duct cleaning services online, you will come across several that quote an amazingly low price. Generally, the amount given is so low that homeowners in Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley are compelled to give it a try as they know the air ducts have to be maintained and cleaned once in a while. However, the Better Business Bureau has stated that there are several businesses which are running air duct cleaning scams, scaring homeowners by claiming that their air ducts could have mold buildup which can pose a threat to their health.
While not all companies are scammers, air duct cleaning in itself is actually not necessary. As long as the heating system in your home is being maintained on a regular basis, the air ducts will be in good condition and don’t need any extra care. In fact, the EPA states that hiring an unreliable service provider for cleaning your ducts can do more harm than good. They can end up damaging your heating system and the ducts themselves.
In addition to this obvious risk, the company might convince you to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on repairs and installations that you don’t even require. This is particularly the case when you opt for mold remediation at their behest, which is a costly endeavor to say the least. Given the fact that a majority of homeowners don’t have the knowledge or experience to decide whether or not they need the service they are paying for, it is no surprise that scammers are able to convince them.
There are some signs you should watch out for that can give you an idea that the air duct cleaning service being advertised is a scam:
- The price they are quoting is unusually low compared to the market rate
- Their advertisements are designed to scare you into having your air ducts cleaned
- Their representatives are pushy about you getting expensive services to have mold removed
It is always better to get a second opinion if any company has told you there is mold in your home that needs to be removed right away. Same is the case if you have been warned of breathing problems and other health issues because of your air ducts not being clean. Get a reputable company to come in and check your heating/cooling system and they will give you an honest report. They will inform you if there is any cause for concern and what should be the best course of action.
In conclusion, it is safe to say that air duct cleaning is not worth your while. This is the reason why reputable heating system repair and maintenance companies don’t offer air duct cleaning. At the end of the day, it is up to you to be cautious and a little careful. If you have your home’s heating system maintained from time to time, there will never be a time when you will require ‘air duct cleaning’.