Air ducts transport cooled and heated air throughout a house and require regular maintenance to ensure efficiency. The buildup of mould and other pollutants can also cause allergic reactions or other respiratory problems. But how often do you need to clean air ducts? Our experts at Power Vac of Ottawa discuss how often you should clean your dirty ducts and why.
Is Duct Cleaning Necessary?
Indoor air can be anywhere from 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. Over time, dust, allergens and other contaminants can accumulate in the ductwork, leading to poor indoor air quality and potential health issues. Thus, duct cleaning is necessary to maintain a healthy indoor environment.
Additionally, regular duct cleaning can improve the efficiency of HVAC systems and prolong their lifespan.
How Often Should You Clean Air Ducts?
How often you schedule duct cleaning may depend on a variety of factors, but generally speaking, try and aim for having your air ducts cleaned every 3 to 5 years. If you have pets or allergies or live in an area with high pollution levels, it may be beneficial to have them cleaned more frequently, such as every 2 to 3 years. Regular inspections by a professional can help determine the appropriate frequency for your specific situation.
A more prompt appointment may be necessary if you meet any of the conditions below.
If You've Just Moved
If you’ve just moved to a new home, we recommend having your air ducts and air filters cleaned as soon as possible. The previous occupants may have left behind dust, debris or even mould spores that could affect the indoor air quality in your new living space.
Additionally, if you notice any unusual odours or visible signs of dirt or mould growth around your vents, it’s important to schedule a cleaning appointment promptly to ensure a healthy and clean environment.
If you've just built a new house, air duct cleaning on a regular basis can rid your house of drywall dust and other construction debris and dust particles that accumulated during construction. Also, there are even more health benefits of duct cleaning.
If You Have a Pest Infestation
If you have a pest infestation, it is critical that you handle the problem as soon as possible since they can pollute your air ducts and affect the air quality in your home. Professional proper cleaning and regular air duct cleaning can help remove any evidence of pests or their droppings, providing you and your family with a safe and healthy living environment by achieving clean ducts.
Unexplained bites or rashes on your skin, droppings or nests in concealed areas and weird sounds or musty smells coming from your air vents are all signs of potential pests.
If You Have Excessive Cold or Allergy-Like Symptoms
If you have dirty air ducts, the air they circulate may trigger or cause allergy and cold-like symptoms. Dust mites, which survive by consuming human debris, can live in the accumulation found in air ducts and can lead to the development of asthma and allergic reactions and you will need air duct cleaning services. In this way, you can reduce your energy bills and lower energy costs.