Cleaning your ducts can help you breathe better air, but how often should you have them cleaned? Many articles recommend cleaning every 15 to 20 years. We say it’s not that simple.
Some systems use disposable filters that are replaced once or twice a year; others use high-efficiency filters that never need replacing; still others use permanent filters that only need washing with soap and water about once a month. But whether you have permanent or disposable filters, the best way to keep your air ducts clean is by having them cleaned annually.
Consider these factors:
1) Location:
Most experts agree that dryer climates require more frequent duct cleaning because of the extra dust they create. If you live in an arid state, you should have your ducts cleaned four times a year (every three months). If you live in an area that tends to collect more moisture in the air, your ductwork can become damp, creating a hospitable environment for mold growth. These areas require less frequent cleaning – once per year is usually sufficient.
2) Pets:
Pet hair easily clogs up heating and cooling systems, so if you have pets in the home, you should consider having them cleaned twice yearly.
3) Smoking at home:
Cigarette smoke collects inside the ductwork of any system that pulls it into the return vents. Have your system cleaned twice yearly if this is a concern.
4) Odor concerns:
A musty smell coming from your HVAC vents may be caused by mold growth in the damp ductwork. Have your system cleaned twice yearly to help control this problem.
5) Ducts located in finished areas of your home:
Homes with finished living space over their crawlspaces or basements will have air ducts located in those areas, making them harder to access and clean. Homeowners who live in homes with these features often have “the smell of rot from mulch or dirt entering systems from below.” These homeowners should consider having their ducts cleaned every three months to better maintain a quality environment in the home.
6) Ducts installed in unconditioned spaces:
If you have air ducts installed inside unfinished outdoor garages or carports, you should have them cleaned every six months.
7) Location of vents:
Make sure that all of your heating and cooling vents are working properly and not blocked by furniture or blankets. If you find obstructions, move them out of the way to make sure cold air is getting into every room in the house. You can also install vent covers for added protection from dirt and dust.
8) Length of HVAC system:
The longer the total heating and cooling system – from the furnace to your plenum – the more chance for dust and debris to gather inside. Have your plenum cleaned about every 10 years, and other components cleaned based on need as noted above.