Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned?

Yes, it is recommended that homeowners have their air ducts cleaned every three to five years, depending on how much their ducts are used and other factors. Having air ducts cleaned can help to improve indoor air quality and reduce the amount of dust and other allergens that can circulate through a home.

Why? Air duct cleaning is the process of removing dust, debris, and other contaminants from the air ducts of a heating and cooling system. The purpose of cleaning is to remove debris that has accumulated over time and may be contributing to health problems or affecting the efficiency of the system. The process should include cleaning the heat exchanger, blowers, fan motor, and air ducts. Many companies offer a variety of services in addition to air duct cleaning, such as sanitizing, deodorizing, and even video inspections of the inside of the ducts.

What is Air Duct Cleaning?

Air duct cleaning is the process of cleaning the air ducts of a building or home to improve air quality and reduce the likelihood of health issues. This process entails the removal of dust, dirt, pollen, and other debris that can accumulate over time within the ventilation system. The process may also involve the use of special tools to dislodge and remove any blockages in the air ducts, as well as the use of detergent or other cleaning solutions to remove any allergens or bacteria that may have built up.

These services typically — but not always — range in cost from $500 to $1,100 per heating and cooling system, depending on:
The services offered.

• the size of the system to be cleaned.
• system accessibility
• climatic region
• level of contamination

If you decide to have your heating and cooling system cleaned, it is important to make sure the service provider agrees to clean all components of the system and is qualified to do so.

You should consider having the air ducts in your home cleaned if:

1. You notice visible mold or dust in the air ducts.
2. There is an unusual odor coming from the air vents.
3. You recently had construction or renovation work done in your home.
4. Pets are living in the home.
5. You experience allergy or asthma-like symptoms.
6. The air ducts have not been cleaned in several years.

How to Prevent Duct Contamination

1. Regularly inspect, and clean ducts: Ducts should be inspected at least once a year for signs of dirt, dust, mold, and other contaminants. Have a professional technician clean the ducts to remove any build-up that has accumulated.
2. Install filters: Air filters should be installed in the duct system to help filter out dust, dirt, and other particles that can contaminate the air. Change the filter regularly to ensure maximum efficiency.
3. Seal air leaks: Seal any air leaks in the ducts with caulk or weather stripping to prevent air from escaping and bringing contaminants into the ducts.
4. Use a dehumidifier: To reduce the amount of moisture in the ducts, use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity levels. This will help prevent mold and mildew from forming.
5. Use an air purifier: Air purifiers can help reduce the number of contaminants in the air by trapping them in the filter. Regularly change the filter to ensure maximum efficiency.

Suggestions for Choosing a Duct Cleaning Service Provider

1. Research the company’s reputation. Check online for reviews and customer feedback about the company.
2. Ask for proof of insurance. Make sure the company has liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
3. Make sure the company is licensed. Many states require that companies performing duct cleaning services be licensed.
4. Ask for references from previous customers. Reputable companies should have a list of previous customers that you can contact for feedback.
5. Ask about the methods used for cleaning. Make sure the company is up to date on the latest methods and technology for cleaning ducts.
6. Ask about additional services. Some companies may offer additional services such as air purification or mold remediation.
7. Get a written estimate of costs. Make sure the estimate is detailed and includes all costs associated with a better air duct cleaning job.
8. Make sure the company has the proper equipment. Make sure the company has the necessary equipment for the job, such as a vacuum truck, air compressor, and specialized tools.