Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it necessary to have my furnace and ducts cleaned?
All air conditioning, ventilation, and heating systems collect bacteria, fungi, mold and other contaminants that reduce indoor air quality. Not only can the air become unpleasant, but it can negatively impact the health of those breathing it. While some bacteria and dust in the air you breathe are natural and assist in the building of your immune system, excessive and over-exposure can cause an array of health and respiratory problems.
What is Benefect and when is it necessary?
Benefect Botanical Disinfectant is a highly effective product that kills 99.99% of germs and bacteria. Benefect is a natural product made from plant extracts like thyme oil and lemons and has no synthetic fragrances, dyes, or bleach. Benefect is particularly useful in systems where there have been rodents or when a building has had water or fire damage. It is also widely used as an all-purpose deodorizer.
How much does a furnace cleaning cost?
The answer to this question varies depending on the size of the home/building being cleaned. Our power whip package includes the cleaning of one residential furnace, all main lines, and up to twelve ducts. There is an additional charge for each duct over twelve.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, cheque, or e-transfer at the time of service. When using e-transfer, please ask the technician for set-up information.
How far in advance should I book my cleaning appointment?
August to February is our busiest season. By October, we are often booking as much as six weeks in advance, so calling early in the season is best. In the busy season, consider asking to be added to our Cancellation List for an earlier appointment!
How long will the cleaning take?
For a thorough cleaning, an average-sized home with one furnace should take 1.5-2hours. If your home has 2 furnaces or requires a furnace and chimney or dryer vent cleaning, we will need to allow for extra time to complete the job.
What method of cleaning does the company use?
We use an aggressive cleaning process called Power Whip. It is a combination of compressed air and a tool called a power whip that beats the inside of the duct work.
Does the company use a truck-mounted system?
Portable units simply do not have enough power to thoroughly clean out HVAC systems in the same way that truck-mounted units do.
Does the company guarantee their work?
If you are not satisfied with your cleaning, the company should work with you to ensure that you are happy.
How frequently should I have my furnace and ducting cleaned?
For an average home, we recommend every 2 to 3 years. For homes where there are occupants with severe allergies, asthma, or numerous animals, cleaning more often may be necessary.
My house was just built or renovated. Do I still need a furnace and duct cleaning?
When a home is built or renovated, construction debris like sawdust and drywall dust often remain in the system. Drywall dust, in particular, will continue to circulate through your system until it has been cleaned out. We recommend cleaning after all the renovations have been completed.
Do you clean furnace and ducts all year?
Yes, we do. Once the temperature reaches about -23c including the wind chill it causes difficulties with our airlines and therefore, becomes necessary for us to reschedule the cleanings. We monitor the forecasts in advance and try to anticipate these days, but the weather is sometimes unpredictable. We appreciate your understanding when colder temperatures make it necessary to reschedule your cleaning to a later date. We will do everything we can to accommodate your appointment in a timely manner on a warmer day.
I have just had a new furnace installed. Do I still need an HVAC cleaning?
Unless you have just had your system cleaned, the answer is yes. Having a new furnace installed does not remove the dirt and debris that was pre-existing in the ductwork. These pollutants will continue to circulate through the system until they are removed.
What do I have to do to prepare for a residential cleaning?
In order to clean the home thoroughly, we require access to all the vents. We will happily move furniture from over top of them and replace the furniture after the cleaning. Because we clean all the vent covers prior to putting them back in, having access to a kitchen sink is helpful.
Does someone have to be home during the cleaning?
We prefer that someone is in the house during the cleaning. If you cannot be there due to another commitment, maybe an extended family member or trusted neighbour can assist you. If necessary, we can also reschedule an alternate cleaning time to fit your plans.
I have an appointment I need to reschedule or cancel. Is there a fee?
No, we do not charge a fee for rescheduling or canceling. Our aim is to accommodate our customers as best we can. Please notify us as early as possible when rescheduling or canceling an appointment.
I have pets. What should I do with them for the cleaning?
All pets vary in their reaction to strangers in the home as well as in their tolerance of noise. Many pets have no problem at all during the cleaning and wander freely throughout the house. Most cats will simply run to a closet or other quiet area to hide during the cleaning and then run from that room to a different one when our staff gets too close. If your pet reacts negatively to strangers, please put them in a pet carrier for the period of the cleaning. This will help your pet feel safer and will protect our staff from animals that bite due to fear. Another option may be for a neighbor or friend to watch your pet for a couple of hours. Ultimately, you know your pet best and are therefore the best person to judge what would be best for them.
It is very cold today. Do you have the furnace off the entire time of the cleaning?
Yes. The furnace will be turned off the entire time. During the winter months, we recommend that you turn up your thermostat about fifteen minutes before your appointment time. The technician will determine the best set-up, trying to run the vac hose through a window. The rest of the window will be blocked off with a blanket to retain as much heat.
How often should I change my furnace filter? And do you sell furnace filters?
Furnace filters should be cleaned or replaced every 2-3 months. This helps to maintain a clear airflow through your HVAC system.
Yes. We carry various sizes of disposable filters on the trucks. We can also special order pleated filters of unique size or shape.
Do you sell gift certificates?
Yes, we do! Gift certificates are a great way to surprise a loved one who has everything! They can be purchased in any dollar amount to suit your budget. (If you have a gift certificate to use towards a cleaning, please present it to the technician prior to the invoice being completed).
Do you clean fireplaces?
Yes, we clean wood-burning fireplaces and wood stoves. The process takes up to an hour depending on the stack. The price of a fireplace cleaning is reduced if it is cleaned at the same time as the furnace and ducts. Please inquire about this when booking your cleaning as we need to allow additional time for your appointment. IMPORTANT: When booking a fireplace cleaning, please do not use your fireplace/woodstove for a full 24 hours prior to the cleaning. We must ensure that all hot embers have been extinguished or the cleaning cannot be performed.