Process & Safety

Q: What is the duct cleaning process like?
A: We use professional-grade equipment to loosen and remove debris from your ductwork. Then we use a powerful vacuum system to extract dust, dirt, and contaminants, leaving your ducts clean and your air healthier.

Q: Is duct cleaning safe for my HVAC system?
A: Absolutely. Our equipment is designed for residential and commercial HVAC systems. We take great care to protect your system and ensure no damage.

Q: How long does the process take?
A: Most residential jobs take 2–4 hours, depending on the size of your home and the level of buildup. Dryer vent cleaning usually takes 30–60 minutes.

Health & Efficiency

Q: Will duct cleaning help with allergies or asthma?
A: While duct cleaning is not a cure, it can significantly reduce dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander in your home, which often helps those with respiratory issues.

Q: Can duct cleaning lower my energy bills?
A: Yes. A clean HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard to push air through your ducts, which means better efficiency and potential savings on energy costs.

Q: Why is dryer vent cleaning important?
A: Lint buildup in dryer vents is one of the leading causes of house fires. Regular cleaning improves safety, shortens drying times, and extends the life of your dryer.

Q: How often should dryer vents be cleaned?
A: At least once a year for most homes. If you do a lot of laundry or have a long/complex vent system, more frequent cleaning may be needed.

Scheduling & Pricing

Q: How much does duct cleaning cost?
A: Pricing varies by home size, number of vents, and system complexity. We provide free estimates and upfront pricing before starting any job.

Q: How often does Ducts Air Duct Cleaning of Knoxville have special offers?
A: Every month. Ask about this month Special offer.

Q: How do I schedule an appointment?
A: You can call us at (865) 773-5815 or book online at www.ductsofknoxville.com.

Mold testing and Mold Issues

Q: How does mold get into air duct systems?

A: Mold develops in ductwork when there is moisture, humidity, or condensation inside the HVAC system. Common causes include:

• Leaking HVAC components

• Poor insulation around duct lines

• High indoor humidity

• Clogged or dirty filters

• Standing water in drain pans

• Long periods without duct cleaning

Q: What are the signs of mold in ductwork?

A: You may have mold if you notice:

• A musty, damp, or mildew smell when the HVAC runs

• Visible mold growth around vents or inside the ducts

• Dust that looks dark, fuzzy, or greenish

• Increased allergies, coughing, or respiratory irritation

• Persistent humidity issues

Q: Is mold in ductwork dangerous?

A: Mold can reduce indoor air quality and may cause:

• Allergy flare-ups

• Headaches or breathing irritation

• Worsened asthma symptoms

• Persistent odors
  While every home is different, mold should always be tested and removed professionally to ensure safe indoor air.

Q: How is mold in ductwork tested?

A: A certified technician typically performs one or more of the following:

• Air Sampling

Collects airborne mold spores using a spore-trap cassette. Results show mold type and spore count.

• Surface Swab / Tape Lift

Used when visible mold is present. A sample is swabbed or lifted from the suspected area and sent to a lab.

• Environmental Inspection

Includes checking humidity levels, moisture sources, HVAC components, coils, drain pans, and insulation.

Lab results typically return within 24–72 hours, depending on the lab.

Q: Do I need testing if mold is already visible?

A: Visible mold can be removed without testing, but testing can confirm:

• Mold species (Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, etc.)

• Spore concentration

• Whether airborne contamination has spread to other rooms

• If remediation is fully successful afterward

Testing is highly recommended for real estate transactions, health concerns, and commercial buildings.

Q: What is the process to remove mold from ductwork?

A: Step 1: Inspection & Testing

A technician inspects the system and performs lab samples if needed.

Step 2: Source Control

Moisture issues are identified and corrected—leaks, insulation failures, clogged drain pans, etc.

Step 3: Mechanical Cleaning

Using a brush-and-vacuum system, debris, dust, and organic material are removed from ducts.

Step 4: EPA-Approved Mold Treatment

A professional-grade antimicrobial disinfectant fog or solution is applied to sanitize ducts, vents, the blower motor, coils, and the plenum.

Step 5: HVAC Coil & Blower Cleaning

Mold often grows on coils and inside the air handler. Cleaning these components is essential to prevent recurrence.

Step 6: Preventive Measures

After mold removal, steps may include:

• Using high-efficiency filters

• Keeping humidity between 40–55%

• Scheduling annual HVAC maintenance

• Considering UV light installation for coil protection

Q: Can mold come back after cleaning?

A: Yes—if moisture returns, mold can regrow. Long-term prevention includes:

• Fixing humidity issues

• Proper HVAC maintenance

• Ensuring good airflow

• Using UV-C lights or dehumidifiers in high-humidity homes

Q: How often should ductwork be checked for mold?

A: Homeowners should have the HVAC and duct system inspected:

• Every 1–2 years

• Immediately after water damage or leaks

• When experiencing recurring odors or allergy symptoms

Q: Can I remove mold in my ducts myself?

A: No. Mold in ductwork requires specialized equipment, negative-air vacuuming, and EPA-compliant disinfectants. DIY attempts often spread spores and make the problem worse.

Q: Does homeowners insurance cover mold in ductwork?

A: It depends on the policy. Mold caused by a covered water event may be included. Mold from humidity, poor maintenance, or neglect is typically not covered. Always check your individual policy.