Boiler repair technician performing an air duct cleaning

Get Ready for Spring With Air Duct Cleaning!

Get the 411 on Air Duct Cleaning Services 

Suppose the outdoor condenser and indoor evaporator units are the heart of a home’s central air conditioning system. In that case, the air ducts are the arteries and veins that cycle the air through the house and help maintain its temperature. Like blood vessels, these ducts can become narrowed or clogged with grime. However, professional air duct cleaning can keep the HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently, as it should. This blog post will discuss air duct cleaning and how to tell when it’s needed. 

The Benefits of Duct Cleaning

ductDirty ducts are not only a problem for the HVAC system’s energy efficiency, but they can also be a health hazard. People with respiratory conditions such as asthma, allergies, COPD, or emphysema are highly susceptible to pollution indoors. If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can hold all sorts of triggers for these respiratory problems, including dust, pet hair, mold and mildew, and pollen. Cleaner air ducts mean the following benefits:

  • Better Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): The indoor air quality will be improved with clean ducts because allergens can hide in the ducts, affecting the entire home’s air quality.
  • Better Energy Efficiency: If the ducts are clean, airflow is improved, and the HVAC unit will not need to use as much energy to get the air where it needs to go.
  • Money Savings: Cleaning the ductwork leads to improved efficiency, which can reduce energy bills.

Indicators of Dirty Air Ducts

Since they are hidden by design, how does a homeowner know if they have dirty ducts? Some signs indicating that air ducts are dirty and need professional duct cleaning are:

  • Dusty or dirty vents
  • Mold growth on vents
  • Foul or musty smells
  • Strange noises
  • Dirty and clogged air filters
  • Worsened respiratory, asthma, or allergy symptoms

Keep Ducts Clean Between Professional Service 

filterEven if a homeowner gets their air ducts professionally cleaned, they can do some things to help keep them clean between professional cleanings. One crucial task a homeowner can do to keep their ductwork clean is to replace air filters regularly, typically at least every three months. Routine air filter replacements keep the system running efficiently and improve indoor air quality by trapping airborne particles and allergens. 

Air filters may need to be changed more often, however, if members of the household suffer from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues. Keeping the house clean is another way to help keep the air ducts clean because less dust and debris will enter the air cycle. If the area is particularly humid, homeowners may want to look into a dehumidifier to help cut the moisture in the air and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth in the ducts.

About RCL Mechanical

RCL Mechanical is a locally-owned and operated heating, AC, and plumbing business serving Taunton, MA, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rate pricing, 24/7 availability, and the latest technology. Call them today for air duct services in Taunton, MA

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Get the Plumbing Ready for Visitors This Holiday Season

The Signs to Look Out for Before Thanksgiving 

It’s that time of year again when families are getting together to celebrate Thanksgiving. Before their arrival, it’s important to ensure that the plumbing works properly to avoid any unwanted messes. The holidays cause enough stress and anxiety, so it’s imperative that the plumbing doesn’t add to that stress. This article will outline common signs of plumbing issues in a home so homeowners can call a plumber before the holidays. 

Check to See if Toilet Repairs are Necessary 

toiletToilets are one of the most commonly used plumbing fixtures in a home, and homeowners want to ensure that they are working properly this Thanksgiving. Several signs indicate that a toilet needs to be repaired. One obvious sign that a toilet needs to be fixed is if it’s constantly clogged. For instance, if there are constant clogs or even random but frequent ones, it’s a sign that a plumber should be called to diagnose and fix the issue. 

Another sign of a faulty toilet is a leak. A leak can be determined if there is water pooling around the toilet or if there are cracks along the outside of the bowl. If a toilet is making strange noises, like gurgling, it could also mean it needs to be serviced. Also, if a toilet is not flushing correctly, that signifies the toilet is malfunctioning. Knowing the signs of a faulty toilet that needs to be repaired will help homeowners determine when to call a plumber. 

Pay Attention to Kitchen Plumbing and Fixtures 

Another place that homeowners should pay attention to avoid plumbing issues this Thanksgiving is the kitchen. Since families will heavily use this area for the holidays, it should be working perfectly. One of the first signs homeowners may notice that indicate plumbing issues is the occurrence of slow draining. This generally means that there is a blockage in the drain, and it needs to be cleared with drain cleaning. 

Another sign of a clogged drain is foul odors. These odors can occur due to food waste and other materials caught in the blockage. Gurgling is another sign of a blockage in the pipes. This is because the blockage in the pipes can cause air bubbles to create noise. 

Water leaks are another significant sign that there are plumbing issues that need to be addressed by a professional. Service from a qualified plumber can ensure that the kitchen plumbing is working properly and there is no damages present. If a homeowner notices water where it shouldn’t be, they should call a plumber immediately. 

Consider Upgrading Plumbing Fixtures

upgradingThe bathroom is one of the most used rooms in the house. Whether starting the day or winding down for the night, this space plays an essential role in daily routines. So why not make it as functional and stylish as possible? One of the easiest ways to do this is by upgrading fixtures. Something as simple as a new sink or faucet can add a touch of luxury to a space while improving its functionality. A new showerhead can completely change the look and feel of a shower. No matter what kind of upgrade homeowners are looking for, there are plenty of options to choose from, including water-saving fixtures.

One of the best ways to upgrade a home’s water-saving capabilities is to install water-saving plumbing fixtures like low-flow showerheads and touchless faucets. Low-flow showerheads can save up to 2.5 gallons of water per minute, while touchless faucets can help prevent water waste by automatically shutting off when not in use. These simple upgrades can make a big difference in water usage, saving homeowners money on the water bill, and will help keep the home looking its best before holiday guests arrive.

About RCL Mechanical 

RCL Mechanical is a locally-owned and operated business serving Taunton, MA, and the surrounding neighborhoods. They provide flat-rate prices, financing, and 24/7 availability. Call them today for plumbing services in Taunton, MA.