15/07/2026
One of the biggest misconceptions in our industry is hearing someone say, “The mold report says have the air ducts cleaned”; or”have the ducts replaced.”
The truth is, not every HVAC component can be cleaned. Not every component should be replaced. Knowing the difference requires experience.
Real HVAC experience isn’t knowing how to clean every system. It’s knowing what can be cleaned, what can be restored, what needs to be replaced, and most importantly, why.
That decision can’t be made by looking through a supply register or making assumptions from inside the home. It requires inspecting the entire HVAC system, understanding the materials involved, and recognizing how contamination affects each component.
Unfortunately, many recommendations are made before anyone has performed a proper inspection.
The best HVAC professionals don’t start with a predetermined solution. They start with a diagnosis.
Because every system is different, every recommendation should be too.
Prescription without diagnosis is malpractice.
— Christopher Thome
Florida & California Licensed HVAC Contractor
Certified Indoor EnvironmentalConsultant (CIEC)
Florida Licensed Mold Assessor
NADCA Certified Ventilation Inspector (CVI)
Author, HVAC Systems, Mold & the Indoor Environment