When do air ducts need cleaning? Is it really necessary?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) points out that studies haven’t definitively demonstrated that dust in homes increases because of dirty air ducts – or that air duct cleaning had been shown actually to prevent health problems.

However, there are specific things to look for that do indicate you should get your ducts cleaned:

• Visible mold growth inside your air ducts or other heating and cooling system parts.
• Evidence of insects, rodents or other vermin.
• Excessive dust and debris in the ducts are released into the home.

Some research indicates that cleaning your heating and cooling system may improve its efficiency, but that entails much more than cleaning the ducts. Some other components to care for and maintain are: coils, drain pans, registers, grills, motors, air filters, and air cleaners.

If you decide to have your air ducts and the rest of your HVAC system cleaned and are looking for a reliable contractor near you, there are several factors to consider and things you should ask before signing a contract.

Air duct cleaning can typically range in prifrom $450 to $1000, but that can vary depending on where you live and the extent of work you have done. Always make sensure you get a complete list of what the company will be doing and what they chargeheir work.

You should also ask any potential air duct cleaning service what products or treatments they will use. They may be planning on using chemical treatments that have not been thoroughly researched, so you’ll want to ensure you have in-depth information before making a decision.

As with most service providers you have come into your home, make sure you get at least three different estimates in writing before making a decision. You should have the potential providers come to your home when possible and ask them to show you what they will be cleaning and why it is justified.

NADCA, the HVAC Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Association, also has information for homeowners considering hiring an air duct cleaner.

They suggest:

• Interviewing as many local air duct cleaning services as possible.
• Checking that the company is a member of NADCA
• Researching how long the company has been in business – do they have enough experience?
• Confirming the company is licensed and has insurance.
• Asking questions about the company's work in homes similar to yours.
• Speaking to former customers for feedback on the work.

 

After the work is done, you’ll want to make sure the service did a good job. The EPA says to make sure all portions of the system are clean and that you can’t detect any debris. Check with the service provider and ask them to show you each component of your system to demonstrate that the work was done correctly.

The agency provides a post cleaning consumer checklist to help you follow up.

Get more information from BBB’s tips on cleaning your air ducts.

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