How Often Do You Need to Clean Your Air Vents?

When was the last time that you thought about your air ducts and vents and whether they were clean? Never? We thought so. Most people don’t give much thought to their air ducts, believing that they are clean enough.

Over the years, your air ducts start to collect dust, debris, insects, and even pests and mold. Besides the fact that these contaminants are getting recirculated throughout your home when you use your HVAC system, these elements can also clog your air vents, making your entire system less efficient.

So how often do you need to clean your air ducts and vents? Our pros at Super Heat & Air explain.

Why is Air Duct & Vent Cleaning Necessary?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the air inside your house can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than the outdoor air. Since homes are insulated and closed off better than ever before, contaminants get recirculated throughout your house via the air vents and ducts in your home.

In addition to regular HVAC air filter changes, air duct cleaning done by a licensed HVAC professional is very important.

Warning Signs of Bad Indoor Air Quality

If you notice any of these signs of dirty air vents, it is best to schedule air duct cleaning immediately:

• Excessive dust, allergens, or debris coming from the supply vents
• Visible mold or mildew
• Evidence of pest infestations such as odor, fur, or droppings
• Unexplained illnesses or allergies

How Often Should Ducts & Vents be Cleaned?

Even with the best air filters, some particles escape through the filter or enter the system another way. Thus, your air ducts will collect debris over time.

On average, air ducts and vents need to be cleaned every two to five years. If your system is properly maintained, and you change your air filters regularly, you can increase the time in between professional cleanings.

If your system has never been cleaned and has been in use inside for more than three years, it is likely due for a cleaning.

When Should Air Ducts & Vents Be Cleaned?

Your ducts and vents should be cleaned before peak season. The best time is either in the spring or the fall when temperatures are milder here in Tampa.

If you have noticed a dusty or musty smell when you turn on your HVAC system, it could be a good indication that you need air duct cleaning. This smell means that there is dust and debris in your air vents that are being circulated through your home along with the cold air.

Other reasons to get your air ducts and vents cleaned are:

Changes to Your Home

You should always schedule air duct cleaning when moving into a new home, especially if the previous owners were pet owners, smokers, or their ducts were not cleaned in the past three years.

Further, when building a new home, air duct cleaning helps rid your home of drywall dust and other construction debris that may have accumulated.

Mold or Musty Smells 

Mold thrives in damp and humid places, like your air ducts. If you see mold, smell mustiness, or are experiencing symptoms of mold exposure like itchiness or coughing, a thorough duct cleaning should be completed as soon as possible.

Excess Dust or Debris 

Over time, dust, pet dander, dead skin cells, and other allergens can build up in the ductwork and might manifest in poofs of dust coming from your vents or a visible build up around air vents.

This excess debris can put you and your family at risk for respiratory issues while decreasing your HVAC system’s airflow and performance.

Related > How Indoor Air Quality Affects Seasonal Allergies 

Professional Air Duct Cleaning

Having your air ducts cleaned at least once every two to five years is instrumental in ensuring good indoor air quality in your home. Call on our pros at Super Heat & Air for expert air duct cleaning so your family can breathe easier all year long!