How Often Should You Clean Your Air Ducts?
The National Air Duct Cleaning Association (NADCA) recommends cleaning your air ducts every 3 to 5 years. However, this can vary depending on a few factors:
- If you have pets, smokers, or family members with allergies or chronic lung issues, you may need more frequent cleanings.
- If your ducts show signs of contamination or damage, cleaning should be done sooner.
Air duct cleaning may not be top of mind for most homeowners, but it’s an essential part of home maintenance. While many know air ducts need to be cleaned regularly, it can be difficult to determine when and how often to do it. Let’s break down the importance of air duct cleaning and how often it should be done.
Why Is Air Duct Cleaning Important?
Air duct cleaning removes debris like dirt, dust, mold, mildew, insect droppings, and even items like paper clips or pet food that can get stuck in your air ducts. When cleaned, your HVAC system will work more efficiently, improving air quality and extending the lifespan of your system.
When Should You Clean Your Air Ducts?
While regular cleaning is important, certain circumstances may require immediate attention. The NADCA suggests cleaning the air ducts in the following situations:
- Before moving into a new home – You don’t know when the ducts were last cleaned, or if the previous occupants had pets, smoking, or renovations that left behind contaminants.
- After water damage – If your HVAC system has suffered water damage, mold can develop, making cleaning essential.
- In case of pest infestations – Rodents or insects in your ducts could mean a cleaning is necessary to eliminate pests and prevent further damage.
Signs You Need Air Duct Cleaning:
Sometimes your HVAC system will tell you it’s time for a cleaning:
- Dust from vents – If you see a puff of dust when you start your HVAC system, your ducts may need cleaning.
- Dirty furnace filters – Excessive dust around the filters indicates dirt is circulating through the system, meaning your ducts should be cleaned.
- Pests – If you notice insects or rodents in the ducts, it’s time to have them cleaned and disinfected.
Need a Professional Hunterdon County Duct Cleaning Service?
DRX Duct Cleaning, based in North Plainfield and Bridgewater, NJ, is a certified and licensed company by both NADCA and IAQA. Our ASCS certified technicians provide residential, commercial, and industrial air duct cleaning services, as well as exhaust ventilation cleaning and mold remediation for HVAC systems. We proudly serve Hunterdon County, NJ, and surrounding areas.
For more information, call us at 908-755-2950 or visit our website.
