As an expert in the HVAC industry, I have encountered many homeowners who are curious about the benefits of air duct cleaning. It's a common misconception that cleaning air ducts can significantly improve air circulation and quality. While it is true that dirty ducts can inadvertently circulate dust, pet hair, dander, and even mold throughout the house, there is currently no evidence that regular cleaning of air ducts improves efficiency or contributes to health benefits. In fact, in some cases, the cleaning process can cause even more particles to enter the house when the waste is released. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) takes a similar stance on the issue and recommends cleaning only if the ducts and the HVAC unit are contaminated.
This means that properly sealed and installed air ducts should rarely need cleaning. However, if necessary, it is crucial to hire someone who is experienced and uses the most up-to-date cleaning technology to avoid problems. After all, the easier it is for air to flow through the air ducts, the easier it will be for your system to carry that air into your living spaces. While it is generally recommended to undergo an annual HVAC system maintenance review, it is only suggested that air ducts be cleaned every 3 to 5 years. This is because air ducts create airflow throughout the house by delivering and returning air to and from the HVAC system.
Some companies may include a microbial spray as part of their duct cleaning service, but this is only a temporary solution. If you are considering hiring an essential air duct cleaning service, it's essential to be aware of potential scams. According to Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, some companies may try to convince homeowners that their ductwork needs to be cleaned due to growing concerns about indoor air quality. However, it's important to remember that air ducts are an essential function of the HVAC system and should not be overlooked. While ducts are usually round, they can be molded into various shapes depending on how they need to be distributed around the house to disperse and return properly the air conditioner. At Ongaro and Sons, we take pride in ensuring that all heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ducts are in order, which benefits both your health and your wallet.
While you may think that regular cleaning of air ducts is a good way to ensure cost-effective heating and cooling and avoid unnecessary repairs, the truth is that it may not make a significant difference in airflow or efficiency. This is because airflow can come from inside the house, from the boiler or air conditioner, or it can absorb air from outside or expel air from inside. While having trusted professionals clean your ducts can improve your home's air quality by helping to reduce allergens, dust accumulation, pet dander, and other factors, it is not a guarantee for improved airflow.
