If you have an HVAC system, you probably already know how essential maintenance is for the proper functioning of your system. While maintaining your furnace and air conditioner is very important, you don't want to forget your system's ductwork. Keeping your ducts clean and free of dust and debris is essential. Failure to maintain your ducts can lead to some significant issues down the road, which is why duct cleaning is a must. Here's what you should know about air duct cleaning.
Signs Your Ducts Need Cleaning
If you do not know when your ducts were last cleaned, there are signs that indicate it is time for a duct cleaning. Duct cleaning is a good idea if you see visible mold growth, have had a recent infestation of pests in or around your ducts, or if your ducts have visible dust and debris. In addition, if your ducts look like they need a thorough cleaning, they probably do. If you are seeing any of these issues, you will want to seek out air duct cleaning services as soon as possible.
How Often To Seek Out Cleaning Services
If there are no visible signs of dust, debris, or mold, that doesn't mean you don't need air duct cleaning. After all, not all of your ducts are visible. Dust and other debris may be accumulating in areas you can't see, which is why you will want to consider air duct cleaning every few years. Most experts recommend air duct cleaning every three to five years. So, if it's been a few years since your last cleaning, it's time to call in the professionals.
How Much It Costs
Another thing you need to know about air duct cleaning is how much it will cost. How much you pay for air duct cleaning services depends on how dirty they are and the size of your home. Larger homes tend to have more vents and ductwork, which will increase costs. On average, duct cleaning services range between $269 and $489. While duct cleaning isn't cheap, it's well worth the expense since it can mean cleaner air, and it may increase the energy efficiency of your HVAC system.
Maintaining your HVAC system is essential, and air duct cleaning is one maintenance task you don't want to leave out. There are a few things to know about duct cleaning. First, being able to identify the signs that your ducts require cleaning is crucial. Second, most ducts need cleaning every three to five years. Finally, while air duct cleaning services cost a few hundred dollars, they are well worth the expense.