Air Quality: How Often Should You Clean Your Air Ducts?

Mark J. Biel • August 28, 2019

Experts advise cleaning your air ducts every three to five years, but this recommendation can change depending on a variety of factors. The air duct cleaning experts at R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating list some of these factors below. 

Compromised Indoor Air Quality  

Keep in mind the three-to-five-year rule is the bare minimum. In cases where you suspect indoor air quality has been severely compromised, we strongly recommend getting your air ducts cleaned right away. The Environmental Protection Agency suggests having your air ducts cleaned if you notice any of the following signs: 

  • Mold formation in the air ducts 
  • Visible poofs of dust coming from the supply registers
  • Vermin in the air ducts 
  • Allergy symptoms or respiratory discomfort among household members 

Pets and Other Allergen Sources

Pets shed fur and dander, which could trigger allergies. If you keep pets in your home or have other potential allergen sources, you’ll need to have your air ducts cleaned more frequently. Remember, when it comes to all matters relating to health, it’s always better to be on the safe side. 

A New Home 

Here’s another rule: when in doubt about the state of your air ducts, have them cleaned. This rule is relevant to families who have recently moved into a new home. It’s hard to know how frequently the previous owner cleaned the air ducts, so it’s better to just go ahead and have them cleaned. 

The same goes for newly constructed or remodeled homes. Sawdust and all sorts of allergens may have been deposited inside the air ducts during construction, so they should be cleaned in these instances as well. 

The Importance of Clean Air Ducts 

In addition to its role in preventing respiratory conditions from flaring up, air duct cleaning is also an essential part of HVAC maintenance. To ensure your air ducts are cleaned thoroughly, be sure to only hire experienced HVAC contractors. When doing so, keep an eye out for less-than-reputable contractors who charge markedly lower prices. At first it may seem like they’re offering a good deal, but don’t be fooled; unscrupulous companies like to add on extra charges throughout the cleaning process. 

Looking for reputable contractors near your neighborhood? R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating offers a wide range of HVAC services, including air duct cleaning and HVAC repair services. To schedule an on-site visit, call us at (505) 672-7888 or (970) 884-3358. You can also leave us a message on this form

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