4 Things You Need to Know About Duct Cleaning

Should duct cleaning be part of your routine home care? We recommend scheduling spring and fall service before each heating and cooling season. This keeps your system running safely and efficiently.  However, duct cleaning is different from regular maintenance.  Here is what you need to know to make an informed decision and avoid dishonest companies.

#1: Air Duct Cleaning is not a SCAM 

Contrary to what you might read on the internet, air duct cleaning is not a scam.  Sure, there are some companies that will convince you that you need air duct cleaning, will do a sub-par job of cleaning your air ducts, (all for the low price of $99), and could damage your ductwork in the process.  

This is why if you opt to have your ducts cleaned that you use professionals who meet the standards by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).  They are properly trained and use the correct tools for duct cleaning. 

•  
• #2: Timing for Duct Cleaning
• Ducts do not need to be cleaned on a routine bases.  According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) they have three specific situations where duct cleaning is necessary.
• 1.  You have substantial visible mold growth in your ductwork.
• 2.  Your air ducts are infested with rodents or insects.
• 3.  Ducts are clogged or have an excessive amount of dust being released from your sir supply registers.
• #3 is the most common reason for duct cleaning.  If you home is over 10 years old, you probably have extensive dust and particulates in your air ducts.

#3:  Proper Cleaning Targets the whole HVAC System

The technician will clean the entire system both the cooling and heating.  According to the EPA, you can expect to pay between $450 and $1,-000 per system, depening on teh following factors:

-Size of systems ductwork

-Type of ductwork

-System accessability

-Level of dust, dirt, mold and other contaminants.

As a homeowner, you cannot clean your own ducts.  You need to use a certified company that specializes in dislodging debris stuck inside your ductwork.  

#4:  Tips to keep your ducts clean:

1. Change your air filter regularly. 
2. Schedule regular maintenance of your heating and cooling system.
3. Regulate the humidity in your home to keep it between 30%-50%.
4. Sweep floors and vacuum rugs and carpeting regularly – especially if you have pets.
5. Contact your local HVAC company if you notice changes in airflow – you may have leaky ducts.  We can also seal your ducts to improve your efficiency on your energy bills.