How often should you clean your air ducts?
You will often hear every 3 to 5 years. That is a common industry guideline, but it is not a rule. The EPA recommends cleaning as needed instead of on a fixed routine, so the condition of your ducts is the better guide.
You may need it sooner if
- You have pets that shed
- Someone smokes indoors
- You recently remodeled
- Your home is close to a busy road or industrial area
- You had a pest problem
You can likely wait if
- You change filters on time
- A look behind a vent cover shows only a light film
- Your airflow is steady in every room
The simplest step is to look. Remove one supply cover and one return grille and check inside with a flashlight. If you are unsure what you are seeing, we can inspect the ducts and tell you whether cleaning is needed.