It’s a common myth that people think they can’t clean their air ducts if they live in a mobile home. This is half true. Most companies that offer air duct cleaning use what are called “negative air” machines. This is a piece of equipment that sucks up the debris while the chute is agitated intensely. This type of equipment can be quite clunky and is not recommended for RVs. If you want to clean your air ducts, you should use a “rotary brush vacuum” with a soft bristle brush. This type of equipment is primarily for residential ducts and the latter is more popular for commercial applications. In mobile homes there are many soft and flexible ducts. A rolling brush vacuum with soft bristles is the only way to clean this type of duct.
Mobile home ducts are especially susceptible to dust and debris since they are located on the floor. Ducts are often not sealed very well and anything from pet dander to insects can easily collect in them. It is recommended that you have your ducts cleaned by a professional approximately every one to three years.
The most critical part of the duct system to clean is the return side. This is where the really scary stuff piles up. Mobile homes do not have a traditional return system. Usually the compartment in which the oven sits and the oven itself is the return. With this in mind, it is important to have your oven cleaned and maintained by a professional every year.
Once the ducts are cleaned by a professional, disinfection can be performed. Think of sanitizing like wiping down the kitchen table after you’ve eaten, once you’ve removed the crumbs, spray on a cleaner to sanitize and not promote the growth of unwanted bacteria. The same is true for your ducts. An antimicrobial agent mists into the ductwork and kills any fungus, mold, or bacteria that may have been growing. This part is vital for respiratory health. Most companies use a mild antimicrobial agent that won’t get you out of your house.
It is important to think about what you are doing and what you are avoiding. Most people don’t think about the hidden dangers inside their air ducts. It is out of site and out of mind. You will greatly benefit from having your mobile home air ducts cleaned. A service that pays for itself in healthy air to breathe.