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Air ventilation cleaning: its importance and benefits

Writer's picture: Mikael DenutMikael Denut

Many of us may not necessarily know what air ventilation cleaning means or why it is so important. Air ventilation cleaning, or the cleaning of ventilation systems, is a method to remove impurities that accumulate in ventilation ducts. These include dust, dirt, mold spores, and bacteria, which can cause health problems and reduce indoor air quality. Air ventilation cleaning improves the hygiene level of the ventilation system and ensures fresh and clean indoor air.


Why is air ventilation cleaning important? First, in certain situations, such as when the supply air ductwork is damaged or the ventilation system is poorly installed, air ventilation cleaning can improve indoor air quality and potentially reduce symptoms like allergies or respiratory issues. However, this requires significant problems in the system's operation or exposure to contaminants. In functioning and properly installed ventilation systems, air ventilation cleaning has not been shown to reduce health risks or provide specific health benefits. Such situations are rare if the ventilation system is correctly installed and maintained.



What is air ventilation cleaning?

Air ventilation cleaning, or the cleaning of ventilation systems, is a method to remove impurities that accumulate in ventilation ducts. These impurities may include dust, dirt, mold spores, and bacteria, which can cause health problems and reduce indoor air quality. Air ventilation cleaning improves the hygiene level of the ventilation system and ensures fresh and clean indoor air.


The purpose of air ventilation cleaning is to remove accumulated impurities from the ducts and prevent their spread indoors. This is especially important considering that people spend a significant portion of their time indoors. Cleaning the ventilation system ensures that the air we breathe is cleaner and healthier.


It is important to understand that air ventilation cleaning does not only address visible dirt and dust but also hidden impurities such as mold spores and bacteria. These microorganisms can cause allergic reactions and respiratory illnesses, so removing them from ventilation systems is crucial.


An employee from IVAeris Oy tapes the duct ends in the apartment to ensure effective suction into the duct system during ventilation cleaning.

An expert guide to choosing and maintaining mechanical ventilation can be found in our article on Mechanical Ventilation . Also, check out our article on the important benefits and health effects of Ventilation Cleaning.


IVAeris Oy offers high-quality air ventilation cleaning services. Request a quote here and browse our cleaning services here .


The advantages and benefits of air ventilation cleaning

Clean ventilation ducts can promote energy efficiency and reduce the movement of impurities indoors, creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment. However, it is important to note that the health impact of air ventilation cleaning primarily depends on the initial condition of the ventilation system. If the system is functioning well and has not been exposed to contaminants, cleaning has not been found to provide significant health benefits.


Secondly, air ventilation cleaning promotes energy efficiency. When ventilation ducts are clean, air flows without obstruction, and the ventilation system operates more efficiently. This can lead to energy savings and lower heating and cooling costs.



The importance of air ventilation cleaning for health

Health claims regarding the benefits of ventilation system cleaning are only valid in situations where the system has defects or damage that allow impurities to enter indoor air. In such cases, the primary measure is to repair the system. Only after this can cleaning the ventilation ducts achieve potential health benefits.


Malfunctions or damage in the ventilation system can lead to the accumulation of dust, mold spores, or other impurities in the supply air ducts, which may spread into indoor air and cause health problems such as allergies, asthma, or other respiratory symptoms. These symptoms may include nasal congestion, coughing, sneezing, and breathing difficulties.


Asthmatics and allergy sufferers are particularly susceptible to symptom exacerbation if impurities have accumulated in the ventilation system. In such cases, properly conducted air ventilation cleaning can reduce indoor air impurities and thus alleviate allergy symptoms.


Preventing mold growth and its spread also highlights the importance of maintaining ventilation systems. However, the most effective way to prevent health hazards is to ensure that the system is intact and functional from the start. Regular maintenance and cleaning support optimal system operation and reduce the risk of impurity accumulation.


Read more about our Air Quality Mold Research - Laboratory Analyses designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the air quality in your home and potential mold issues.



The impact of ventilation cleaning on indoor air quality

The effects of air ventilation cleaning on indoor air quality primarily depend on the condition and functionality of the ventilation system. If the system is defective or damaged, impurities may spread indoors and reduce indoor air quality. In such situations, the first step is to repair the system, after which cleaning may be necessary to restore indoor air quality.


Two ventilation professionals work indoors, one measuring airflow and the other recording the results, highlighting the impact of IV cleaning on indoor air quality.

In well-functioning and well-maintained ventilation systems, the effects of cleaning are mainly preventive. If impurities such as dust or other particles have accumulated in the system, these may spread into indoor air and cause symptoms like nasal congestion, coughing, and sneezing. However, such symptoms are rare in systems that function properly.


Indoor air quality can also affect people's overall well-being, such as mood and productivity. Particularly in cases where the system does not function correctly, poor indoor air can cause fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. After repairing the system and performing necessary cleaning, indoor air quality can be restored to a level that supports well-being and better quality of life.


To better understand the air quality in your home and the functionality of ventilation, explore our service Air Quality Assessment - Indoor Air Measurement .



The impact of ventilation cleaning on energy efficiency

Air ventilation cleaning has a direct impact on energy efficiency. When ventilation ducts are clean, air flows without obstruction, and the ventilation system operates more efficiently. This can lead to energy savings and lower heating and cooling costs.


When ventilation ducts are clogged with dust and impurities, the system has to work harder to pump air. This increases energy consumption and raises heating and cooling costs. Clean ventilation ducts allow for more efficient airflow and, therefore, more energy-efficient operation.


Energy efficiency is not just a financial benefit but also has environmental implications. When the ventilation system operates more efficiently, less energy is consumed, reducing the carbon footprint. Air ventilation cleaning can thus contribute to sustainable development and environmental protection.



Air ventilation cleaning is particularly important for allergy sufferers

Allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, itching, sneezing, and red eyes can worsen if the ventilation system has issues and the supply air ducts have accumulated dust or allergens. In such cases, the primary action to alleviate symptoms is to ensure that the ventilation system functions correctly and any damages, openings, or blockages are repaired.


A woman sits on a couch wrapped in a blanket and holds a handkerchief in front of her nose, apparently suffering from allergy symptoms or respiratory symptoms.

Only after ensuring the system's integrity can air ventilation cleaning remove accumulated impurities like dust and allergens, preventing them from entering indoor air. This can help reduce allergy symptoms and improve the quality of life for allergy sufferers. However, it is important to note that regular maintenance and checking the system's functionality are more critical than just cleaning for managing impurities.


Clean and properly functioning ventilation ducts can reduce the movement of dust and allergens indoors, supporting the management of allergy symptoms. However, air ventilation cleaning alone does not prevent the development or sensitization of allergies, as this also requires controlling other factors affecting indoor air quality, such as moisture issues and material choices.


Methods and techniques of air ventilation cleaning

Air ventilation cleaning uses various methods and techniques to ensure effective cleaning of ventilation ducts. The most commonly used method is mechanical cleaning, which uses special brushes and vacuum cleaners to remove dust and impurities.


An employee of IVAeris Oy shows a heavily soiled section of the ventilation duct, emphasizing the need for IV cleaning in the kitchen environment.

In addition to mechanical cleaning, other methods such as steam cleaning and chemical cleaning can be used. Steam cleaning uses hot steam to loosen and remove stubborn dirt and impurities. Chemical cleaning involves using specific cleaning agents to break down impurities and facilitate their removal.


The techniques of air ventilation cleaning can vary depending on the size and condition of the ventilation system. Professionals can perform air ventilation cleaning using specialized tools and equipment to ensure effective cleaning. It is essential that air ventilation cleaning is carried out by professionals to ensure a high-quality and safe cleaning process. Read more about the step-by-step cleaning process in our article How is an IV cleaning performed? .


Regularity and maintenance of air ventilation cleaning

According to the Rescue Act (379/2011), property owners, holders, and operators must ensure that ventilation systems are maintained and fire-safe. Currently, there is no new Ministry of the Interior regulation specifically determining the content or intervals of ventilation system cleaning. Instead, standard SFS-EN 15780 provides recommendations on ventilation system cleaning intervals and quality assurance. As a general guideline, the system should be inspected and cleaned approximately every five years, but this depends on the building's usage and conditions.


An IVAeris employee is changing the filter of a Velco replacement air valve in the living room. Filter materials, a Velco package and cleaning wipes are visible on the table. A ladder and natural light from the window are visible in the background.

The cost and savings of air ventilation cleaning

The costs of air ventilation cleaning vary depending on the size, condition of the system, and the chosen service provider. However, it is important to note that cleaning alone does not solve issues related to indoor air quality or system functionality. First and foremost, it must be ensured that the system is intact and functions properly. Cleaning is effective only if performed on a well-maintained and functional system.


Although the costs of air ventilation cleaning may seem high initially, they can bring benefits, especially when combined with other maintenance measures. Clean and well-maintained ventilation ducts can improve system energy efficiency, reducing energy consumption and heating and cooling costs.


Additionally, regular maintenance and cleaning as needed can extend the lifespan of the ventilation system and reduce the need for costly repairs. A well-maintained system operates more reliably and cost-effectively, potentially lowering overall costs in the long term.


More information about our pricing can be found on the page Pricing for ventilation work and you can view our cleaning service offerings on the page Cleaning .



Air ventilation cleaning can be a beneficial measure for improving indoor air quality, but its effects are significant only if the ventilation system is initially functional and correctly installed. If the system has defects, damage, or other malfunctions, these should be repaired first to ensure the cleaning provides real benefits.


Cleaning can remove accumulated impurities like dust and dirt, which may affect system energy efficiency and indoor air quality. This can, in turn, reduce allergy symptoms and create a more pleasant living environment. However, it is important to remember that regular system maintenance and inspections are essential for achieving long-term benefits.


The costs of air ventilation cleaning may initially seem high, but a well-maintained and cleaned system can reduce energy costs and minimize the need for costly repairs in the long term. High-quality cleaning performed by professionals ensures the process is carried out properly and safely.


Overall, air ventilation cleaning can be a valuable part of ventilation system maintenance, but its actual benefits depend on the system being checked and, if necessary, repaired first.


 

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IVAeris Ltd.

010 206 3000

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