Chances are, you do not spend much time thinking about your air ducts, but they are an important part of your HVAC system, and need to be taken care of. Before answering the question of how often to clean air ducts, let’s address the issue of the purpose of air ducts and why you should clean them in the first place.
What are Air Ducts?
Air ducts are the maze of passages that are used by the HVAC system to deliver and remove air to warm or cool your home. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) has a great rule of thumb: “if your air ducts look dirty, they probably are”.
Save Energy
“So what?” you may ask. Energy savings is a great first reason. If your ducts are dirty and there is significant build-up, then your HVAC will have to work harder to deliver and remove the air, and that means higher electricity bills. Clean ducts will result in your HVAC system running more efficiently, and more importantly, saving you money.
Better Air Quality
If you are not yet convinced with the money-saving argument, then how about cleaner air quality? If anyone in your family has environmental allergies or respiratory issues, then ensuring that no contaminants that may have built up in the ducts are being redistributed through the home may be a smart idea. Pets and cigarette smoke can add to the build-up in your ducts, along with contaminants from day to day living.
While there are no defined recommendations from either the NADCA or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the frequency of duct cleaning, there are some situations where it is definitely suggested:
- The presence of mold
- Animal infestations
- Following home renovations
Who Should Clean Your Air Ducts?
If any of these situations apply to you, or it is simply your preference to have your ducts cleaned on a regular basis, then picking a reputable company is key. The cleaning process should consist of more than just a ‘blow and go’, and devices such as specially designed roto-brushes should be utilized to loosen dirt from the surface of the ducts.
Cleaning the air ducts in your home is undoubtedly important. This task is obviously one you cannot tackle on your own. If you are looking for a reputatable company with skilled workers, you need to look no further than Sonoma County Comfort Heating and Air. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
