How Often Should I Clean My Air Ducts?
March 1, 2020
The recommendation for air duct cleaning is every three to five years. But it depends on various factors. Location, climate, and HVAC use affect air duct cleaning frequency schedules. Other issues, like mold and illness, may also be a sign that your ducts need cleaning. Learn more about air duct cleaning to help understand how often you should do it.
Air Duct Cleaning Overview
You may assume air duct cleaning is limited to the aluminum ductwork running through your home. It's important to clean these during the process. Yet, this cleaning includes several other HVAC components, too. Comprehensive air duct cleaning involves:
- Supply and return air ducts
- Supply and return registers
- Condensation drip pans
- Diffusers
- Grills
- Cooling and heating coils
- Fan housing
- Fan motor
- Air handling unit housing
Your cleaning technician first inspects your HVAC system for dust and grime buildup. Handheld brushes and scrubbers, access tools, a rotary brush cabling system, and a negative air vacuum are some common tools. Brushes loosen built-up dirt while a vacuum machine collects and removes the loosened debris for an effective process that will leave your ducts clear of contaminants.
Signs You Need Air Duct Cleaning
Routine air duct cleaning removes regular buildup in your HVAC system. This process helps support healthy indoor air quality (IAQ). It also provides smooth air flow for your heating and cooling system. This can improve efficiency, which supports smart energy consumption and lower utility bills.
In some situations, routine maintenance isn't enough. And you may need to schedule air duct cleaning sooner than three to five years from your last cleaning. Some signs that your ductwork needs a more immediate cleaning include:
Illness
Lingering colds, sinus infections, and other respiratory problems may indicate the need for better IAQ. Asthma and allergy sufferers may benefit from more frequent cleanings, as well.
Infestation
Rodents and insects are fond of making air ducts their home. Prevent the spread of disease and illness from these vermin with air duct cleaning.
Mold
Mold is a dangerous contaminant. Remove visible growth as soon as possible. But you'll also need to remove the source. Mold spores are air borne and may spread easily through your vents. If you encounter this problem, talk to your technician about restorative and preventative measures.
Remodels/Renovations
Home renovation work generates massive amounts of dust, dirt, and debris. Unsealed ducts are prime for contamination. Schedule a ductwork inspection after a remodeling project. Your technician will check for buildup in your HVAC system.
Have you noticed any of these problems? Has it been several years since you cleaned your HVAC system? Our experienced technicians know how to inspect and clean air ducts for best results. Call on One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning for professional air duct cleaning and great customer service.