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January may seem like the the least likely time to think about cleaning your air ducts but it is actually one of the most important times.  Maintaining clean air ducts is one of the most effective ways to improve your home’s indoor air quality and start the new year with a healthier living space. After the holidays and throughout the winter, your HVAC system is working harder than usual—and that means more dust, debris, and allergens circulating through your home. That’s why January is the perfect time to schedule professional air duct cleaning.

Whether you live in Oakand County, Macomb County, Wayne County, St. Clair County, Livingston County, or the surrounding area, professional cleaning can help reset your home’s air quality and efficiency for the year ahead.

Why January Matters for Air Duct Cleaning

Holiday Dust and Debris

During the holidays, homes tend to be busier than usual. Extra guests, decorations, and frequent door openings all contribute to dust and particles accumulating in your air ducts. Once the celebrations are over, that buildup hangs around—affecting your air quality and HVAC performance.

Increased Indoor Time = More Circulated Air

Colder weather equals more time spent indoors. That also means your HVAC system runs more often, circulating the same air (and any contaminants in it) throughout your home. Cleaning your ducts in January can remove lingering dust and allergens, giving your household fresher air to breathe.

Health Benefits for the Whole Family

Air duct cleaning improves indoor air quality by reducing irritants like dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores. For families with allergy or asthma sufferers, this can mean fewer symptoms and a more comfortable indoor environment during the winter months.

What Professional Air Duct Cleaning Includes

When you schedule a service with the experienced, NADCA certified Cleaning Specialists at Safety King Air Duct Cleaning, you can expect:

Thorough Inspection

Technicians will assess your duct system for buildup, mold, and other issues that could be impacting airflow or air quality.

Deep Cleaning of Ductwork

Using the most powerful equipment and tools in the industry, our NADCA certified Cleaning Specialists remove dust, debris, pet hair, dead bugs from all sections of your HVAC system—including hard‑to‑reach areas.

Enhanced HVAC Performance

With cleaner ducts, your system doesn’t have to work as hard to heat or push air, which can improve energy efficiency and reduce strain on your expensive HVAC equipment.

Find more about our full range of residential and commercial HVAC services here.

Signs You Might Already Need Duct Cleaning

You don’t have to wait until January to call if you notice any of the following:

  • Visible dust blowing out of vents when the HVAC is running
  • Frequent cold and allergy symptoms indoors
  • Musty or stale odors
  • Noticeable dust buildup around vents

If any of these sound familiar, professional duct cleaning could make a noticeable difference.

Pair Duct Cleaning with Indoor Air Quality Upgrades

Air duct cleaning is even more effective when combined with other services that improve your home’s air quality. Consider exploring:

These upgrades help ensure your home isn’t just clean—but truly healthy.

How to Schedule Your January Duct Cleaning

Getting started is easy. Book a professional duct cleaning with Safety King Air Duct Cleaning to kick off the new year with cleaner, healthier air.  CLICK HERE or give us a call at 1-800-AIR-DUCT (586-731-4720)

Don’t Miss Out: The 30% Tax Credit for Duct Sealing Ends in 2025

If you’re considering ways to make your home or commercial building more energy-efficient, there’s a powerful financial incentive you need to know about — and it’s going away soon.

Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), homeowners and building owners can currently receive a 30% federal tax credit on qualifying energy-efficiency upgrades. This includes duct sealing technologies like Aeroseal — an advanced process that seals hidden leaks from the inside out, improving HVAC system efficiency and indoor air quality.

Why Act Now?

This tax credit isn’t permanent. It’s scheduled to expire on December 31, 2025. After that date, unless new legislation is passed, projects started won’t be eligible for the 30% credit — which could mean missing out on hundreds or even thousands of dollars in savings.

What Is Aeroseal?

Aeroseal is a patented duct sealing technology that identifies and seals leaks in ductwork with minimal disruption to your home or building. Air ducts leak 20%-40% of your costly heated/cooled air through the cumulative gaps and leaks throughout the system.  Our Aeroseal process can be performed on new or recently cleaned air duct systems.  By sealing these leaks, you can:

  • Reduce heating and cooling costs
  • Improve comfort and airflow
  • Enhance indoor air quality
  • Maximize HVAC performance

AEROSEAL SEALS UP TO 90% or more of those leaks…on the entire system…from the inside!

And with the IRA credit, you can claim back 30% of the installation cost, up to the limits allowed by the law.

Take Action Before It’s Too Late

If you’ve been considering duct sealing or other energy-efficient upgrades, now’s the time to move forward. Waiting too long could mean losing out on this valuable tax benefit.

Deadline: December 31, 2025

Potential Savings: 30% Federal Tax Credit

⚙️ Eligible Service: Duct Sealing (e.g., Aeroseal)

Want to learn more or get a quote? Contact Safety King today and let us help you lock in your energy savings — and your tax credit — before the window closes.

1-800-AIR-DUCT           https://safetyking.com/services/aeroseal-duct-sealing/

Understanding the critical benefits of annually inspecting and cleaning evaporator and condenser coils in HVAC systems, backed by recent studies and authoritative standards:

 

Boosting HVAC Efficiency and Reducing Costs

NADCA’s Latest Study Highlights Dramatic Savings

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA)’s newest energy study, released earlier this year, tracked performance before and after HVAC Air Duct Cleaning. It revealed that routine system cleaning reduced fan and blower energy consumption by 41–60%, and significantly boosted supply airflow by 10–46%. These are game-changing numbers—clean coils mean less energy wasted moving air, which translates to real savings on monthly energy bills.

What Happens When Coils Aren’t Cleaned

Both evaporator and condenser coils play crucial roles in heat exchange. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, dirty condenser coils can increase compressor energy consumption by up to 30%, while clogged evaporator coils restrict airflow, degrading heat transfer and humidity control. The DOE also estimates that 25–40% of heating or cooling energy is wasted due to system inefficiencies like coil fouling.

Performance, Lifespan, and Indoor Air Quality

Longer Equipment Life & Fewer Breakdowns

Clogged coils and airflow restrictions force HVAC equipment to overwork, accelerating wear on the compressor and motor. NADCA notes that even lightly fouled systems, once cleaned, experience energy savings of around 11%, while heavily fouled systems likely see even greater benefits—plus a reduced risk of premature system failure.

Better Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Evaporator coils collect condensation—and with it, particulate, mold, and microbial growth. Cleaning them removes these contaminants, helping prevent indoor air quality issues that exacerbate allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems.  Cleaning the air ducts removes built up contaminants before they reach these components and after they are discharged into the supply side.

Official Guidance & Industry Standards

ASHRAE/ACCA 180: Annual Inspection Required

ASHRAE’s Standard 180 (co-sponsored by ACCA) mandates minimum annual inspection and maintenance of commercial HVAC systems to ensure energy efficiency, comfort, and IAQ. Annual coil inspections are crucial in keeping systems within design specifications.

ACCA Standard 6 QR: Cleanliness Guidelines

ACCA’s Standard 6 (HVAC System Cleanliness) outlines procedures for comprehensive air duct cleaning including all air-side components, especially the evaporator coils. It also emphasizes that cleaning individual components without whole-system consideration can ironically worsen IAQ if dislodged particulate isn’t contained.

Manufacturer Insights & DOE Test Procedures

Leading HVAC manufacturers consistently recommend annual coil cleaning to maintain high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). Recent DOE updates to test procedures (e.g., Appendix M1 referencing AHRI 210/240-2024 and Appendix M2/AHRI 1600-2024) stress the importance of accurate, real-world performance measurements. Clean coils ensure that systems operate to their rated efficiency, not some derated value caused by neglect.

Key Benefits of Annual Coil Inspection & Cleaning:

Benefit Impact
Energy Savings Up to ~30% less compressor energy + 41–60% lower fan energy
Improved Airflow & Comfort 10–46% increase in supply airflow, better humidity control
Extended Equipment Life Reduced wear = longer lifespan, fewer premature failures
Better Indoor Air Quality Reduces allergens, mold, particulates
Code & Standards Compliance Aligned with ASHRAE 180, ACCA 6 QR, DOE testing protocols

Best Practices for Annual Maintenance

  1. **Visual & Operational Inspection**
    – Inspect coil fins for damage, corrosion, debris
    – Verify proper air pressure differential across coil
  2. Thorough Cleaning
    – Use approved, coil-safe cleaning agents
    – Rinse thoroughly to avoid chemical residue
  3. Containment Measures
    – Where particles may be released, isolate coils and maintain negative pressure during cleaning ()
  4. Verification After Cleaning
    – Measure airflow, pressure drops, and temperature performance to ensure restoration

Annual inspection and cleaning of entire air duct system including the evaporator and condenser coils isn’t just best practice—it’s a smart investment. Backed by NADCA’s recent findings, supported by DOE energy metrics, and reinforced by standards from ASHRAE and ACCA, the message is clear:

Clean coils = lower bills, better comfort, healthier air, and longer-lasting HVAC gear.

Make coil care part of your yearly HVAC routine—your system (and your wallet) will thank you.

For more info, consider downloading:

  • NADCA’s full whitepaper on energy and HVAC distribution cleaning
  • ASHRAE 180-2018 and ACCA 6 QR Standards
  • DOE’s technical briefs on AHRI 210/240 and 1600 testing methods

The Importance of Periodic Commercial Air Duct Inspections and Cleaning:

Following the NADCA ACR Standard

Indoor air quality and HVAC system efficiency are essential in any commercial setting — from healthcare facilities and office buildings to schools and childcare centers. Yet, one area often overlooked in routine maintenance is the ductwork — the lungs of your HVAC system. According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), regular inspection and cleaning of commercial HVAC systems are vital for ensuring both optimal performance and a healthy indoor environment. NADCA’s ACR Standard (Assessment, Cleaning, and Restoration) provides industry-backed guidance for maintaining duct systems across a wide range of buildings.

 

What Is the NADCA ACR Standard?

The NADCA ACR Standard is a globally recognized benchmark for HVAC system cleaning and restoration. It outlines best practices for assessing, cleaning, and maintaining ductwork and HVAC components to improve indoor air quality and maximize system performance. The standard also helps determine when cleaning is necessary and how to verify that it has been properly completed.

 

Why Regular Periodic Duct Inspections Matter

  1. Improved Health and Safety in Occupied Spaces

In places like healthcare facilities, childcare centers, and schools, air quality is directly tied to the health and wellbeing of vulnerable populations. Dirty or contaminated ducts can harbor dust, mold, bacteria, and allergens — all of which can aggravate respiratory issues or contribute to the spread of airborne illnesses. Routine inspections help identify and address these issues early.

  1. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings for Businesses

Office buildings, retail centers, and industrial sites rely heavily on HVAC systems. Dirty or obstructed ducts force these systems to work harder, increasing energy usage and utility costs. Regular duct cleaning helps restore efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and extend equipment lifespan.

  1. Compliance with Standards and Regulations

Many industries — especially healthcare and education — are held to high indoor air quality standards. Following the NADCA ACR Standard ensures compliance with regulations from OSHA, ASHRAE, and other governing bodies.

  1. Preventing System Damage and Downtime

Accumulated debris, microbial growth, and restricted airflow can lead to system wear, corrosion, and unplanned downtime. In environments like hospitals or 24/7 call centers, that kind of disruption is not an option. Inspections and preventive cleaning of air duct systems can reduce the risk of expensive repairs and operational interruptions.

 

Facilities That Benefit from Air Duct Cleaning

  • Healthcare facilities: Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care centers require sterile, well-ventilated environments to protect patients and staff.
  • Offices and corporate buildings: Clean ducts improve employee comfort, reduce sick building syndrome, and lower operational costs.
  • Schools and childcare centers: Children are more susceptible to poor air quality. Clean air systems support healthier learning environments.
  • Retail spaces and restaurants: Clean ventilation ensures a pleasant customer experience and meets public health standards.
  • Industrial and warehouse facilities: Reducing airborne dust and pollutants improves safety and helps meet workplace regulations.

 

Recommendations from the NADCA ACR Standard

  • Inspect ductwork regularly to determine the need for cleaning. The frequency depends on factors such as building use, occupancy levels, and environmental conditions.  It is recommended that most commercial systems be inspected annually.
  • Clean systems when contaminants are visible or when microbial growth is suspected or confirmed.
  • Hire certified professionals who adhere to NADCA standards to ensure thorough and compliant cleaning.
  • Document and verify cleaning results using visual inspection and other industry-accepted methods.

Conclusion

Clean, efficient air duct systems are critical for maintaining safe, healthy, and cost-effective environments across a wide range of commercial spaces. Whether you’re managing a hospital, a daycare, or an office park, adhering to the NADCA ACR Standard ensures your building’s HVAC system supports better air quality, lower costs, and a more comfortable experience for everyone inside.

To find “air duct cleaning near me” it’s easy to connect with Safety King Air Duct Cleaning, a NADCA certified and founding member, who can provide customized inspections and cleaning tailored to your facility’s needs.  Call Safety King at 1-800-AIR-DUCT or 586-731-4720 or visit www.safetyking.com.

Why Changing Your Furnace Air Filter is Crucial

for Your HVAC System

 

If you’re a homeowner in the Detroit Metro area—whether in Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, or beyond—one of the simplest yet most important things you can do to maintain your HVAC system is regularly change your furnace air filter. It’s a small task with a big impact on your home’s comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency.

 

Why It Matters

Your furnace air filter plays a crucial role in keeping your HVAC system running efficiently. It traps dust, pet dander, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating through your home and clogging up your system. When a filter becomes too dirty, it restricts airflow, which can lead to several issues:

  • Reduced indoor air quality
  • Increased energy bills
  • Overworked HVAC system
  • Shortened furnace lifespan

In fact, neglecting your filter can eventually require more intensive services like air duct cleaning and ventilation cleaning to remove the buildup of dust and debris that has accumulated throughout the system.

 

How Often Should You Change It?

In Michigan, where heating systems are heavily used in the winter, you should check your furnace filter every 1 to 2 months during peak usage. If you have pets, allergies, or live in a particularly dusty area of Macomb, Oakland, or Wayne County, you may need to replace it even more frequently.

 

Step-by-Step Instructions to Change Your Furnace Filter

Changing your air filter is quick and easy. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Turn Off Your Furnace
    For safety, always turn off the power to your furnace before changing the filter.
  2. Locate the Filter
    It’s usually found in the blower compartment, near the return air duct or inside the air handler.
  3. Remove the Old Filter
    Slide it out and check its size. The dimensions are usually printed on the filter frame (e.g., 16x25x1).
  4. Insert the New Filter
    Make sure the arrows on the filter frame point in the direction of the airflow—toward the furnace.
  5. Turn the System Back On
    Power it up and enjoy better airflow and cleaner air!

 

Don’t Forget About Air Duct and Ventilation Cleaning

Changing your furnace filter is a great first step, but it doesn’t address the entire HVAC system. Over time, dirt and debris can still accumulate inside your ductwork. That’s why many homeowners in Detroit Metro, including those in Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne County, schedule periodic air duct cleaning and ventilation cleaning to keep their systems clean and efficient.  Call Safety King Air Duct Cleaning at 1-800-AIR-DUCT to speak to Michigan’s most experienced NADCA certified professionals. 

 

Taking care of your furnace air filter is a small habit that makes a big difference. If you’re not already changing it regularly, now is the time to start. Your home (and your lungs) will thank you!

The Importance of Air Duct Cleaning: Insights from the NADCA Energy Study

The importance of air duct cleaning is underscored by the NADCA Energy Study, revealing significant energy savings potential. Ensuring clean ductwork not only enhances indoor air quality but also optimizes energy efficiency in residential and commercial settings. According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), regular air duct cleaning is a crucial step in improving overall energy performance.

When was the last time you had your air ducts cleaned? If it’s been a while—or never—you might want to reconsider. According to a study conducted by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), clean air ducts don’t just improve indoor air quality; they can also significantly impact your energy efficiency.

Understanding the NADCA Energy Study:

The NADCA Energy Study set out to determine the effect of HVAC system cleanliness on energy consumption. The findings were eye-opening: dirty HVAC systems force equipment to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing energy costs. Specifically, the study demonstrated that even a small amount of debris in the ductwork and system components can reduce airflow, making heating and cooling systems up to 40% less efficient.

How Dirty Air Ducts Affect Energy Consumption

  1. Restricted Airflow

Dust, debris, and other contaminants accumulate in ductwork over time, restricting airflow. This forces your HVAC system to work harder to push air through the ducts, increasing energy consumption and raising utility bills.

2. Reduced Efficiency of HVAC Components

The NADCA study also highlighted the impact of dirt buildup on critical components such as coils, fans, and motors. When these parts are covered in dust and grime, they lose efficiency, leading to increased energy usage and premature wear and tear on your system.

  1. Increased System Strain

A clogged system means your HVAC unit runs longer to achieve the desired temperature. This additional strain not only raises energy costs but also shortens the lifespan of your system, leading to more frequent repairs or early replacement.

The Benefits of Regular Air Duct Cleaning:

✅ Lower Energy Bills

By ensuring that your air ducts and HVAC system are clean, you can improve airflow and efficiency, ultimately reducing your monthly energy costs.

✅ Improved Indoor Air Quality

Clean air ducts help reduce allergens, dust, and contaminants circulating in your home, leading to better respiratory health and overall well-being.

✅ Extended HVAC Lifespan

A well-maintained HVAC system experiences less wear and tear, leading to a longer lifespan and fewer costly repairs.

✅ Better System Performance

A clean HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard to heat or cool your home, making it more effective and responsive to temperature changes.

When Should You Schedule Air Duct Cleaning?

According to NADCA, air ducts should be cleaned every three to five years, depending on factors like pets, allergies, smoking indoors, or recent home renovations. However, if you notice excessive dust buildup, weak airflow, or an increase in energy bills, it may be time to schedule a professional duct cleaning sooner.

Conclusion:

The NADCA Energy Study confirms what HVAC professionals have long known—cleaning air ducts and HVAC components are essential for maintaining energy efficiency. Regular air duct cleaning not only reduces energy costs but also extends the life of your HVAC system while improving indoor air quality. If you haven’t had your air ducts cleaned in a while, now is the perfect time to invest in this essential home maintenance service.

 

Would you like a professional assessment of your HVAC system’s cleanliness? Contact NADCA Founder Safety King at 1-800-AIR-DUCT to have one of our 20 NADCA certified professionals ensure your system is running at peak efficiency!

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