Dirty air ducts can have a major impact on more than just your health - they can also reduce the efficiency of your home and air conditioning system. When your HVAC system has to work harder to meet your needs, it requires more energy, resulting in higher monthly utility bills. The most efficient central air conditioning and heating systems cool or heat the air and then return it to the rooms of your home through the most direct-use air ducts. If these ducts are dirty, however, friction slows airflow. Humidity caused by a cooling mechanism in your air conditioner is also a likely cause.
It is essential to identify why the air ducts are dirty and then have them inspected by a professional and cleaned or repaired if necessary. Once the air ducts are free and clear of all dirt, your home will have a more consistent and stable temperature. Some research suggests that cleaning the components of the heating and cooling system (e.g., however, there is little evidence that cleaning only the ducts) improves system efficiency. You may consider cleaning the air ducts simply because it seems logical that the air ducts get dirty over time and that they should be cleaned from time to time.Duct cleaning methods vary, although industry associations concerned with air duct cleaning have established standards. To find companies that provide duct cleaning services, see the Duct Cleaning section in the Yellow Pages or contact the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) at the address and phone number listed in the information section at the end of this guide.
We specialize in several types of advanced duct cleaning, such as air whip cleaning, deep duct cleaning, and more. Daily activities, such as cleaning or cooking, can cause large amounts of chemicals to be released into the air that clog up the ducts that should provide clean air. Most organizations that deal with pipeline cleaning, including the EPA, NADCA, NAIMA, and SMACNA (the National Association of Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors), do not currently recommend the routine use of sealants to encapsulate contaminants in any type of duct. Since every home's conditions are different, it's impossible to generalize about whether cleaning your home's air ducts would be beneficial or not. This is because much of the dirt that can accumulate inside air ducts adheres to duct surfaces and does not necessarily enter the living space. However, many modern residential air duct systems are built with fiberglass panels or sheet metal ducts lined inside with a fiberglass coating. Unfortunately, there are dishonest “little hands” companies that charge you for duct cleaning but don't actually clean them effectively and thoroughly.
When service providers visit your home, ask them to show you the contamination that would justify cleaning the ducts. Whether or not you decide to clean your home's air ducts, preventing water and dirt from entering the system is the most effective way to prevent contamination (see How to Prevent Duct Contamination). In addition to allowing for more uniform temperature regulation in your home, clean air ducts can also improve your overall health. Cleaning these ducts allows them to circulate air more fully and can significantly reduce these harmful particles in the air. As an expert in HVAC systems, I recommend having your air ducts inspected regularly by a professional who can identify any potential issues before they become serious problems. Regular maintenance will help ensure that your HVAC system is running efficiently and effectively while also helping you save money on energy costs.
Additionally, if you do decide to clean your air ducts yourself or hire a professional service provider, make sure they use safe methods and materials that won't damage your system.
