Does cleaning air ducts really make a difference?
Yes, with regular maintenance, clean air ducts have proven to increase the efficiency and lifespan of a home’s HVAC. It also helps keep allergens and odor at bay, for better air quality.
How do I know if my air ducts need to be cleaned?
The first sign that your ducts need cleaning is if you start to see mold or dust gather in there. Next, if you notice an infestation of rodents or insects then it is time for a general cleaning. Lastly, if your energy bill has unexpectedly shot up, your ducts may not be performing as efficiently as they could.
Can I clean my air ducts myself?
While it may seem like a straightforward job, cleaning air ducts actually requires special tools that most homeowners may not have lying around. Moreover, those who have not been properly trained to clean air ducts may end up damaging the materials and require extensive repairs.
How often should you clean the ducts in your house?
It is recommended to have your air ducts cleaned once every 5 to 7 years. However, this would depend on a few factors such as if you have any pets at home, if you live within a particularly dusty area, or if anyone who lives with you has allergies. If any of these apply to you, you may need to have your air ducts cleaned a little more frequently.
What happens if you don't clean your air ducts?
Dust, mold, and other contaminants can start to build up. Over time, this not only decreases the quality of air that circulates within your home, but it can also affect your HVAC system.
How messy is duct cleaning?
With the right set of tools and a professionally trained team to get the job done, duct cleaning should not get messy.
What are the benefits of air duct cleaning?
By having your air ducts cleaned, not only do you breathe fresher air, but you can also expect fewer chances of allergies or asthma acting up. Furthermore, your heating and cooling systems will be able to function at their most optimal state, which would help regulate the temperature indoors and also keep your energy bills down.
How do you know if you have dirty air ducts?
Apart from checking to see if there is a buildup of dust, mold, and other contaminants, you can determine whether or not your air ducts need cleaning if your HVAC is not performing well. Similarly, if your electricity bill is unexpectedly higher, you may need to check how well (or poorly) the system is running.
How do I prepare my home for air duct cleaning?
Some ways you can prepare your home before a scheduled air duct cleaning are:
- Keep the area around your vents free of clutter in order for the team to get direct access without needing to move around your personal belongings.
- Plan ahead where you can keep your pets.
- Let the team know if you prefer to stay or leave so that the home security process can be thoroughly discussed.
What time of the year is best for duct cleaning?
There is no specific time of the year that is better than another for cleaning out your air ducts. It mainly depends on your home’s usage and other factors such as whether you live with pets and immunocompromised family members. Here in the Midwest, we don’t deal with too much humidity and mold compared to those in the South. Because of our relatively cool weather, cleaning out your air ducts every 5 years will suffice in most cases.
Can dirty air ducts make you sick?
Yes, they can. Those with pre-existing pulmonary conditions are especially more vulnerable as low-quality air can trigger asthma, allergies, and even respiratory infections. Furthermore, being exposed to dirty air for long periods can cause a sinus infection, the common cold, dry skin, and a weakened immune system.
