Is Air Duct Cleaning Worth It? Here’s What You Need to Know

Your heating and cooling system plays a massive role in keeping your home comfortable. Unfortunately, dirt, dust, mold, and other airborne contaminants can build up in your air ducts. But is air duct cleaning worth the cost? This guide explains when it’s necessary to clean your ducts and how to hire the right pro for the job.

What Is Air Duct Cleaning?

Air duct cleaning removes debris, dust, and other contaminants from the ductwork in your HVAC system. If you are wondering who cleans air ducts, it is a job best handled by a reputable duct cleaning service near you.

These pros know how to clean supply and return ducts, registers, grilles, and other system components without voiding your warranty or damaging the system. They use specialty tools, including vacuums, brushes, and blowers, to dislodge and extract accumulated dirt.

When Is Air Duct Cleaning Necessary?

The frequency of air duct cleaning for your home depends on various factors, but the general guideline is every five to eight years. Pet owners or homes with high dust levels could benefit from cleaning every three to five years. Additional situations that impact when to clean include:

• Visible mold growth within your ductwork or on HVAC components

• Rodents or insects nesting in your ducts

• Unexplained allergy symptoms pointing to dirty ducts

• Recent renovation or construction work that caused debris to settle in your ducts

What Are the Benefits of Duct Cleaning?

Air duct cleaning can positively impact individuals with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities. Benefits include:

• Improved air quality

• Better HVAC efficiency

• Mold and mildew reduction

• Odor removal from buildup in the system

• Less dusting and cleaning required in your home

How Much Does Air Duct Cleaning Cost?

Professional air duct cleaning costs $270 to $505. Factors that impact what you actually pay include your location, home size, the extent of your ductwork, and the number of vents in your abode.

Are There Any Risks to Air Duct Cleaning?

Improper cleaning can cause problems. Working with a vetted professional duct cleaning service is always best. Some risks include:

• Damage to ductwork: If not done correctly, cleaning can loosen connections or puncture flexible ducts. The results can impact your entire HVAC system.

• Dislodging contaminants: Poorly performed cleaning, which can happen when you DIY, can release more dust and pollutants into the air instead of removing them.

• Scam services: Some companies offer “too-good-to-be-true” deals and then pressure homeowners into unnecessary upgrades. To protect yourself, read reviews of a company's work on sites like Angi.

How Can I Keep My Ductwork Clean?

Maintaining your ductwork between professional cleanings can help improve air quality and HVAC efficiency.

• Replace HVAC filters every one to three months to stop dust and debris from building up in your system.

• Vacuum vent covers and registers to remove surface dust and prevent accumulation inside the ducts.

• Keep your home clean with daily or weekly dusting and vacuuming, especially if you have pets or allergies.

• Control humidity levels to inhibit mold growth in your ducts by using a dehumidifier or running your air conditioner during humid months.

• Seal and insulate ducts to prevent dirt, dust, and debris from entering through gaps or leaks.