Air Ducts: To Clean or Not to Clean

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Air Ducts: To Clean or Not to Clean

Duct cleaning has been quite popular in the past few years with commercial cleaning services happening everywhere. But really, is this service worth the hype or is it just a really good scam?

In this post, we aim to provide you with information that can help you decide whether or not you’re going to benefit from getting your HVAC air ducts in your house cleaned.

Duct Cleaning

Duct cleaning services as done by professionals make use of specialized blowers, brushes, and vacuums to clean out everything thoroughly. The services should also include a thorough cleaning of the grilles, motors, fans, air handler, registers, housings, and coils of your HVAC system.

While there’s no research to back up the claims that duct cleaning can improve the quality of air and reduce dust in your house, there’s evidence showing that dirty coils, air handling units, and motors can definitely render your HVAC somewhat useless.

Should You Have Your Ducts Cleaned?

Because of the growing concerns about the quality of air inside our homes, it’s very easy for homeowners to be convinced that their ducts have to be cleaned. But really, unless they’re really dirty, there’s no reason for you to have them cleaned.

If properly performed, duct cleaning doesn’t hurt, but it’s not really something that has to be a part of your regular home maintenance routine. You probably don’t need it done unless:

- There is evidence of animal nesting in your ducts or HVAC system or there’s an infestation.

- You had your home remodelled. This is especially important if there was lead paint removal, asbestos abatement, or even just significant dust.

- There is visible mould growth inside the ducts.

- You notice pet hair, dust, foul odours, or other contaminants being released into the room coming through the ducts even after the registers have been cleaned.

- If someone in the family is suffering from an allergy-related illness that cannot be explained, and you have done what you can to decontaminate your home.

If you decide to look into getting your ducts cleaned, make sure that you don’t just settle for duct cleaning – instead, have a full cleaning of your heating or cooling unit. Ask for written estimates from a reputable company. Check the standards and verify the results of the services. It’s also wiser to ask around and check references in your area to know which contractor could provide a satisfactory service at a fair price.