How Often Should I Clean My Air Ducts?

The air ducts are the component of your HVAC system that deliver conditioned (heated or cooled) air to your home. Most homeowners never give these ducts any thought - one of those "out of sight, out of mind" situations. That said, dirty air ducts contribute to poor indoor air quality and respiratory issues for those who suffer from allergies, asthma, COPD or other conditions. Key in "how often should I get my air ducts cleaned" and you'll come across countless results, but Aire Serv® can provide the information you need to make an informed decision!

What factors influence how often air ducts should be cleaned?

Homeowners with family members who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues should consider having air ducts cleaned every two years. At the very minimum you should have ducts cleaned once every five years, however there are factors to consider when making your decision.

• Do you have pets who live indoors, and if so how many?
• Does anyone in your household smoke?
• Is your home excessively dusty?
• Do any family members suffer from asthma, allergies, COPD or other respiratory issues?
• Does the local climate lend to excess humidity or moisture?
• Could leaks exist in the air ducts?
• Do several people live in your home?

The fact is air ducts develop a build-up of dust, dirt, pet hair, mould, and in some cases rodent droppings and other nasty debris over time. If a leak exists in the duct work, pests can make their way in and wreak all kinds of havoc in regards to polluted air. How often should air ducts be cleaned? While we've given a general timeline above, it really depends on many factors including those above. Clean ducts mean a healthier environment and improved indoor air quality, something important to most homeowners today.

Air ducts - mould and mildew

Most people today know the potential danger of mould and how it can negatively impact health. Depending on the humidity or moisture in the area where your air ducts are located, mould and mildew can develop and grow which results in bacteria and other airborne pollutants inside your home. We all expect our homes to have healthier, fresher air than what you find outdoors, however the fact is most indoor air is far more polluted than outdoor air!

No one wants polluted air inside their home, however there are some things you can do on your own to improve the situation such as vacuuming/dusting on a regular basis, limiting smoking to outdoors, and using portable air cleaners inside your home. The best way to ensure the air being circulated into your home via your HVAC system is as clean as possible is to have the air ducts cleaned. At Aire Serv your indoor environment and comfort is our top priority! Give us a call today for air that helps you breathe easier.