March 2019

News You Can Use

The Importance of Regular Duct Cleaning

The article below was obtained from Next Generation Air & Heat's monthly newsletter.

The ductwork in your home ensures your heating and cooling is properly delivered from air handler to duct registers throughout the house.

What happens to my ducts over time?

Dust and debris build up in your ductwork which can greatly reduce the efficiency of your system and worsen air quality in your home.

How often should I have my ducts cleaned?

Once a year is recommended.

Duct Cleaning FAQs

How Do I Know if I Need My Ducts Cleaned?

In general, it can be hard to tell if you need to have your air ducts cleaned. However, there are certain warning signs you can watch for that will tip you off that your ducts may need to be cleaned. For instance, if you find yourself constantly dusting and cleaning all areas of your home, there is a good chance that a lot of that dust is simply cycling through your ducts over and over again and it is likely building up in there.

You may also notice that your home heating or cooling system is not functioning as efficiently as it used to or that it is heating or cooling various areas of your house unevenly. This can be a sign that buildup in your ducts is impeding and affecting airflow within the system. This is certainly easy to fix and addressing the problem sooner rather than later allows you to get the most out of your home comfort system.

Another warning sign to watch for is a buildup of dust or other debris around the vents in your home. You may also need your ducts cleaned if your air filters need to be changed more often than the manufacturer recommends.

How Often Should I Have My Ducts Cleaned?

There are no industry recognized standards governing how often you should have your air ducts cleaned. To a great degree that is because each individual situation is different. Your house may be relatively free of the contaminants that can build up in air ducts. In that case, you would not need to have any type of in depth professional cleaning carried out on a regular basis.

However, plenty of houses are prone to developing mold and dust buildup issues that make it necessary to clean out the air ducts more often. You may have a general sense of what the conditions in your house are like, but it is often helpful to consult with a reputable professional who can help you come up with a realistic estimate for how often you will require duct cleaning.

Can I Clean My Ducts on My Own?

There are certainly things you can do on your own to keep your ducts from getting too dirty. Vacuuming a little way down each access point is a good idea, and you should also keep up with a good schedule for changing your air filters. But there are simply too many parts of your duct system that you will not be able to reach safely while cleaning. Cleaning on your own can definitely make it so that you need professional cleanings less frequently, but having a professional come out once in a while is important.

What Are the Benefits of Duct Cleaning?

Professional duct cleaning can have many benefits. Clean ducts do not spread indoor air contaminants around, which helps to keep your indoor air quality high. Keeping your air ducts free of debris and buildup will also make it possible for your home heating and cooling systems to function more effectively and efficiently. You will get more out of the system and lower your energy bills in the process. It’s certainly worth spending a little every year or so to have a professional come out and clean your air ducts.

P E T C A R E C O R N E R

The article below was obtained from Banfield Pet Hospital's Article Library.

The Benefits of Multiple Pets

The More the Merrier!

You’re a pet lover so you already understand the many benefits of having furry family members. They bring joy, companionship and comfort to our lives every day. But did you know that multiple pets can enrich each other’s lives as well as yours?

With some exceptions, pets are generally happier in pairs. Two pets may entertain one another and learn from each other while you’re away. Adding a dog or cat to a single pet household can help reduce the incidence of separation anxiety, which often arises from the fear of being left alone. An additional pet can also help revitalize an aging or older dog.

If you’re considering adding a new pet to your family, here are some tips to help make the transition easier and more successful. Please also ask your veterinary team for advice on the best way to introduce a new pet to your home and family.

1. Consider the type of pet that will make the best addition to your entire family. For instance, if you already have a cat and would like to add a dog to the family, consider a breed with a calmer temperament. If you’re adopting an older dog, consider one that has been raised with or is friendly toward cats.
2. Make sure all pets are healthy and current on their vaccinations and test negative for parasites.
3. Before bringing your new dog into your home, try introducing them on neutral territory, either at an unfamiliar park or in a neighbor’s yard where they are likely to be less territorial. Many shelters can set up a meet-and-greet between the pet you have and the one you are interested in adopting to make sure they are compatible.
4. Make sure to spend quality time with all pets, both reassuring your existing pet and bonding with your new pet. Make sure they get time alone with you as well as time together.
5. Give plenty of positive reinforcement for good behavior.
6. If behavior problems persist, consult your Banfield veterinarian for advice.
7. Considerations should also be given to additional investment in both time and costs associated with food, grooming, boarding and veterinary care.
8. The only thing better than one cat is two or three more!

Nancy Stewart, Newsletter Editor