When it comes to the cost of air duct cleaning, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) have both conducted studies that show that routine duct cleaning has minimal beneficial effect on indoor air quality. That said, if you're experiencing issues with your air conditioner not cooling properly, it's more likely due to a clogged filter than dirty ducts. The EPA recommends cleaning your air ducts “as needed”, especially if you can see visible mold on the duct surfaces, there is rodent or insect infestation, or visible dust particles leaking through ventilation grilles. Some air duct companies suggest cleaning them every five or seven years, but this isn't necessary for most homeowners.
If you're looking to have your air ducts cleaned, it's best to hire a professional. They can inspect the system to ensure there are no asbestos materials in the heating and cooling system, assess the condition of your air duct system and the location and accessibility of the ventilation grilles, and clean all components of the air duct system including the fan, heat exchanger, drain pan, coils, and chamber. If you combine air duct cleaning with other services, you'll usually fall into the lower price range. However, if you're dealing with a serious mold and mildew problem, professionals can recommend a specialist to handle the job.
If your energy bills have been consistently high for no apparent reason, scheduling an air duct cleaning is one of the first things homeowners should try in order to fix the problem. The best time to clean your ducts is when they are dirty, regardless of the season.
How Much Does Air Duct Cleaning Cost?
The cost of air duct cleaning varies depending on several factors such as the size of your home, the number of vents and returns in your HVAC system, and any additional services you may need. Generally speaking, professional air duct cleaning services range from $300 to $500 for a single-family home. If you're looking for a more affordable option, some companies offer DIY kits that allow you to clean your own air ducts.These kits typically cost between $50 and $100 and come with all the necessary tools and instructions for a successful job. However, it's important to note that DIY kits are not recommended for large homes or homes with complex HVAC systems.
When Should You Have Your Air Ducts Cleaned?
As mentioned earlier, the EPA recommends cleaning your air ducts “as needed”. This means that if you can see visible mold on the duct surfaces or there is rodent or insect infestation in your home, it's time to call a professional. Additionally, if you notice visible dust particles leaking through ventilation grilles or if your energy bills have been consistently high for no apparent reason, it's also time to schedule an air duct cleaning.Conclusion
Air duct cleaning is an important part of maintaining a healthy home environment.While it's not necessary to clean them every five or seven years as some companies suggest, it's important to keep an eye out for signs that indicate it's time for a professional cleaning. The cost of air duct cleaning varies depending on several factors such as size of your home and number of vents and returns in your HVAC system but generally ranges from $300 to $500 for a single-family home.
