Before getting in contact with us about our cleaning services in San Diego CA, it can be helpful to consider what should be cleaned. While cleaning has many obvious benefits to the hygiene and look of a space, it can also improve the energy efficiency of it.
Knowing exactly what you want cleaned is recommended before seeking out any cleaning services. This can allow the cleaners to do their best job possible, and you can rest easy knowing your space is being well looked after.
Here is how cleaning can improve the energy efficiency of your space.
Windows
Studies by the US Department of Energy have found that the heat gains and losses through windows can account for 25% to 30% of a home’s HVAC energy consumption. It’s no surprise then that dirty windows can hinder the energy efficiency of your building. This is usually due to a film of dirt inside, outside, or on both sides of a window; which can affect the cooling or heating qualities of the panes.
Other Ways to Improve Energy Efficiency of Windows
Cleaning your windows and their frames can also expose problems which also affect the energy efficiency of a home. After having your windows cleaned, check for any of the following problems which will affect the heat and air transferral to your space.
- Check for any cracked or missing caulk around the pane
- Check the weatherstripping for any missing areas or damage
- Check the frame for any cracks, warping, or damage
If any of these integral parts of your window are damaged, then removing them and replacing them is necessary. In some cases, it might be better to replace the entire window unit with something more energy efficient. Otherwise a cheaper solution could be to buy an acrylic or plexiglass insert which is custom made to fit snugly and stop air leaks.
Casement and Double Hung Windows
These kinds of windows require a bit more attention than standard ones, as there are more areas where grime can build up and hinder the system. Be sure to inform your cleaners to clear any dirt from the tracks and other moving parts of these windows.
Heating, Cooling and Ventilation Systems and Air Ducts
One of the biggest factors in the energy efficiency of a space is the efficacy at which heating, cooling, or ventilation systems are working. Our team who provide cleaning services in San Diego (CA) have seen just how dirty these systems can get, especially in shared spaces like offices. By hiring professional cleaners with experience cleaning ventilation systems and air ducts, you can be sure that everything is in shipshape.
There are several components which need to be thoroughly cleaned in ventilation systems:
- Remove debris from the exterior compressor/condenser .
- Clean the fins inside the exterior unit using a brush, a vacuum, and depending on how dirty they are either using a hose, or commercially available fin cleaning products.
- Straighten the fins if they are bent out of shape, and clean out all dirt inside the unit.
- Clean the area around the unit, making sure to cut back any vegetation that may be dropping debris inside it. During winter months it can be good to put something over the top of the unit to stop excess moisture entering. Although be sure to remove the cover before using again.
- Clean the evaporator coil found inside on the blower/furnace unit. This requires some handyman tools and knowledge, check out this video for how to do this.
- Clean the evaporator drain, this article has tips on how to do this successfully.
- Check, clean, and if necessary, replace the blower filter.
Check that any cleaning service you hire has knowledge on doing all of the above before letting them pull apart your HVAC system.
Damp Carpets
A common problem, especially in older buildings, is carpets which never seem to dry. Having this excess moisture in a space can not only affect your HVAC’s efficiency, but also be a health risk to those in the space. If areas of the carpet seem perpetually damp, then it may be necessary to rip it up to see where the water is coming from. Otherwise using a wet and dry vacuum as soon as any spills are made can help this.
Cleaning Services in San Diego CA
If you’re looking for a cleaning service in or around San Diego County, then look no further than Under the Rug Floorcare. We pride ourselves on providing the highest quality services, and have plenty of experience cleaning HVAC systems. Check out our gallery to see some of our work, or get in touch for a quote today.
