WHY CLEAN YOUR AIR DUCTS?
Did you know pollution levels inside a home can be two to five times higher than outdoor levels? (EPA). This can come as a surprise considering that many of us spend a tremendous amount of time indoors. When we look for fresh air indoors, we often rely on our HVAC system to be the first line of defense against indoor pollutants. However, when your air conditioner or furnace isn’t in peak condition, its ability to circulate clean fresh air is greatly reduced. This is particularly true with your air ducts, which are one of the most critical components of your HVAC system.
Given that an average home generates 40 pounds of dust every year —and that much of that re-circulates 5 - 7 times a day through your HVAC system — it can indicate a significant buildup of contaminants inside your ducts. Certain lifestyles promote higher levels of indoor pollution, such as homes with pets or smokers. But you may also find debris, mold, pests, and other allergens residing in your ductwork that could negatively impact your indoor air quality. That’s why the inspection, maintenance, and cleaning of your air ducts shouldn’t be overlooked.
With that said, unlike your AC or heating system which requires annual maintenance, air duct cleaning isn’t necessarily a routinary task. In fact, air duct cleaning should be done on an as-need basis. Some homes may require it more often than others. Which brings us to the next question.
WHEN IS AIR DUCT CLEANING NECESSARY?
If you experience at least one of the following, it could signal that it’s time to have your air ducts inspected and cleaned.
1.
Visible Mold Growth
​Mold can form in ducts due to condensation, humidity, water leaks, among other reasons. This poses serious health concerns and should be addressed promptly with a thorough cleaning. However, duct cleaning will only be effective if the mold originates in the ductwork. That’s why it’s critical to address first the root cause of the mold growth to prevent regrowth.
2.
Unpleasant Odors
Musty smells, rotten odors, burning scents, or other persistent odors can emerge when your HVAC turns on. This may indicate a potential buildup of contaminants inside your ducts. While air duct cleaning won’t fix odors caused by outdoor sources or your HVAC system itself, it can help eliminate smells trapped directly in your ductwork. In some cases, improperly sealed ducts allow outdoor odors to infiltrate your home. These cases may require both cleaning and sealing of ducts to resolve the issue.
3.
Vermin or Pest Infestations
Many critters — including rodents and insects —can make their way into your ductwork and your home, bringing with them droppings, fur, and debris. These not only create foul odors, but can also compromise your indoor air quality and pose health risks. Duct cleaning can help remove both the pests and their harmful traces from your ductwork. But remember, if you have a pest problem that has reached other areas of your living space, it’s a good idea to also hire a pest control professional.
4.
Recent Home Renovations
Construction and remodeling work can release fine dust, drywall particles, and harmful substances like silica or even OSHA-regulated toxins and carcinogens into the air. These materials often settle in your ducts and can continue circulating throughout your home if not cleaned out.
5.
Excessive Dust Around the House
If you notice your home getting dusty shortly after cleaning—especially around vents and registers—it may be a sign of a heavy buildup inside the ducts. Cleaning them can help reduce dust circulation and improve the freshness of your indoor air.
6.
It's Been Over 5 - 7 Years or You've Never Had a Duct Inspection
Even if duct cleaning isn’t always required frequently, having your ducts inspected once a year is recommended. An inspection can identify issues like duct leaks, gaps, or long-term pollutant buildup that may be impacting your system’s performance and your indoor air quality. So if it’s been over 5 years since your last cleaning or you noticed some of the previous signs, you should get your ducts cleaned immediately by a professional.
BENEFITS OF AIR DUCT CLEANING
Improve Indoor Air Quality
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Removing dust, mold spores, debris, and other airborne contaminants from your ductwork helps ensure the air circulating in your home is fresher and safer to breath.
Eliminate Odors
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Musty, dusty, smoky, and other foul odors trapped in your ducts can be removed with professional air duct cleaning.
Reduce Allergens & Irritants
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Eliminating pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other irritants that could be hiding in your ducts may help reduce allergy and asthma symptoms caused by these particles.
Enhance Energy Efficiency
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Cleaning your ducts can help you save energy (and potentially lower your utility bills) by facilitating airflow and preventing your HVAC system from overworking due to buildup.
Extend HVAC System's Lifespan
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Clean ducts mean less strain on your heating or cooling system, which can help extend your system’s lifespan.
Eliminate or Lower Pest Infestations
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Professional air duct cleaning can help remove nests, droppings, and debris left by rodents and insects, discouraging pest infestation.