How often do air ducts really need to be cleaned?
Regular air duct cleaning ensures the optimal efficiency of your HVAC system and helps maintain a healthier indoor environment. Image courtesy COIT Cleaning and Restoration Services
Air ducts, while a crucial component of your home’s ventilation system, often remain out of sight and out of mind. However, these hidden conduits play an integral role in the quality of your indoor air.
So, how often do air ducts need to be cleaned? Here’s a look at what’s happening “behind the scenes” in your home…
Air duct cleaning involves the thorough cleaning of your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system – including the ducts themselves and also their various components. Regular air duct cleaning ensures the optimal efficiency of your HVAC system, and more importantly, it helps maintain a healthier indoor environment by minimizing dust and microbial growth.
What are the signs your air ducts need cleaning?
- Unusual odours originating from the HVAC system
- Visible mould growth inside ducts or other components of your HVAC system
- Excessive dust or debris around the house, indicating accumulated dust in the ducts
How often? Air Duct Maintenance Schedule
The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends air ducts be cleaned every three to five years. However, the frequency of cleaning can vary significantly based on factors such as the regional climate, whether you have allergies or pets, or have undertaken recent home renovations.
- For allergies or asthma: Accumulated dust, pollen and other pollutants in the air ducts can exacerbate these conditions, so experts recommend cleaning the air ducts every two to three years for optimal allergy prevention.
- If you have pets: Pets bring joy and companionship, but they also contribute to more frequent air duct cleaning needs. Pet dander and hair can accumulate in your air ducts over time, contributing to poorer air quality and potential allergies. If you have pets, consider cleaning your air ducts every two to three years.
- Post-construction or renovation: If your home has recently undergone construction or renovation, it’s crucial to have your air ducts cleaned. Construction projects usually stir up dust and debris, which can easily settle in your ducts and hamper the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Of course, regular air duct cleaning does more than improve the indoor air quality; it also offers potential savings on your energy bill through improved HVAC efficiency.
How much does air duct cleaning cost?
The cost of cleaning will vary according to various factors, including the type of ductwork and its accessibility, the size of your HVAC system and level of contamination.
To reduce the need for more frequent cleanings, maintaining a clean home, changing HVAC filters regularly, scheduling annual HVAC maintenance and addressing moisture issues promptly can all help.
And when it’s time to schedule professional cleaning, considerations include the provider’s credentials and certifications, customer reviews and ratings, and the cost of service, including any hidden charges.
For all your in-home cleaning needs, call your trusted professionals at COIT Cleaning and Restoration in Nanaimo at