Going to Atlanta

50 million Americans suffer from dust, pollen, pet dander and mite allergies. Dust mites are the second biggest allergen, next to pollen – and with the typical mattress holding 10,000 to 10 million dust mites, many people are deciding to have a routine cleaning done to get rid of these microscopic pests. The problem of poor indoor air quality goes beyond what’s sanitary. According to WebMD, allergies cost the US Health Care System $7.9 billion each year, so it’s become a burden on our finances as well. It’s no surprise, then, that Atlanta duct cleaning would become such a popular idea. Tim Hebert, president of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association in Washington DC, alleges the roots of Atlanta duct cleaning began in downtown Philadelphia, circa 1976. On a hot July day, over 180 people fell ill with pneumonia at the American Legion convention. Twenty-nine people died of the unrecognized strain of bacteria that had spread through the hotel cooling system. Suddenly, the “sick building” paranoia crept in and business owners wondered how they could limit the number of sick days their employees took, as well as how they could make their buildings more energy efficient to save a buck. Today, we have many of the same concerns that we had in the seventies. Yet today we have much better methods for Atlanta duct cleaning than sending a guy dressed in coveralls down a narrow duct armed with a high-powered vacuum cleaner. The most professional Atlanta duct cleaning companies use extractor fans powered at 7,000 CFM extract the dust and dirt with powerful suction, while the 200 PSI air whip systems dislodge any caked up debris. Atlanta duct cleaning may also involve dryer vent cleaning, dust mite killing spray and air duct sanitizing. While it hasn’t been outright recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency yet, they have said that there are many cases where Atlanta duct cleaning might be necessary. If family members are mysteriously becoming ill with sniffles, sneezing and coughing, then getting rid of the gunk and grime in the home can be helpful. The American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine estimates that 55-60% of asthma cases could be reduced by mitigating biological contaminants like dust mites and cat hair. Additionally, if there is visible green mold on heating or cooling ducts, homeowners should consider calling an Atlanta duct cleaning professional. Particularly in humid climates, moisture, dirt and mold become breeding grounds for all sorts of microbial spores and contaminants. Once these spores are inhaled, the eyes, ears, nose and throat will feel irritated. Long-term exposure can leave an individual feeling lethargic, dizzy, feverous and short of breath. To find the right Atlanta duct cleaning company, homeowners should look for someone who has a positive track record with the Better Business Bureau and has good customer testimonials. They should also have a state license to practice in Georgia and be certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association. The company should be knowledgeable to discuss the process and alternatives.



By: Adam Morien