Your house has a network of ducts inside your walls leading to and from your air conditioners and heating system. While these ducts are vital to your home’s central heating and cooling system, you must properly maintain them. If you don’t know the average cost of duct cleaning, this article will guide you.
Duct cleaning is a process that involves the cleaning of the system that delivers air to and from your home. It is necessary for the health and safety of every homeowner who does not clean their vents. You can find many different companies offering professional duct cleaning services, but the average cost for this service can vary depending on a few factors.
When Should You Clean Your Air Ducts?
The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends that homeowners have their air ducts cleaned every 3-5 years, but this also depends on your home’s environment. If you have pets, smoke in your home, or have recently renovated your home, you may need to have your ducts cleaned by professionals more often.
Professional duct cleaners use powerful vacuums and specialized tools to extract as much dirt as possible from the air ducts. The air flows uninterrupted through the vents and back into the room. Without having your air ducts cleaned regularly, you are at risk for a variety of problems, including:
- Allergens and dust mites that can cause asthma and other respiratory problems
- Mould and mildew growth
- Increased energy costs as your heating and cooling system struggle to work properly
How Much Does It Cost To Clean Air Ducts?
The average cost of duct cleaning can range from $300 to $1,000. The price depends on your home’s size, the number of vents, and the amount of dirt and debris you need to remove. Some companies may charge by the hour, while others may charge a flat rate.
It is essential to get an accurate estimate from a professional duct cleaning company before scheduling the service. Many companies offer free quotes, and some will even provide a discount if you have multiple vents cleaned simultaneously. The technicians may suggest having your AC repaired if they notice, during the cleaning process, that there is a problem with your equipment.
If your home requires good duct cleaning, it is essential to research and find a reputable company that offers quality services at an affordable price.
What Factors Impacts The Cost of Cleaning Ducts?
Several factors will impact the cost of duct cleaning, including:
The size of your home – The more extensive your home is, the more time it will take to clean the entire ventilation system.
The age of your heating and cooling units – It will be less time-consuming to clean if you have a newer air conditioning unit. However, if you need a new system or furnace, that could impact the cost.
The type of material inside the ducts – If you have a metal or synthetic material within your air duct system, that will require special tools and additional fees over standard fibreglass materials.
The contamination level – If your ducts have a significant amount of contamination, it could lower the efficiency of your airflow. You also run the risk of spreading contaminants throughout your home when you turn on the heating or cooling system.
The number of vents – The more vents in your home, the more time it will take to clean them all.
The type of vacuum used – A professional duct cleaner will use a powerful vacuum that extracts dirt and debris from the system. However, this will impact the cost of your service.
The type of cleaning solution used – Some companies may use pure water to clean your ducts, while others may use a chemical solution.
Additional services, such as sanitizing or deodorizing – Some companies may offer a range of different services that could impact the price.
How Can I Reduce the Need for Duct Cleanings?
Here are a few tips that may help you reduce the amount of dust and debris in your ducts:
Keep your heating and cooling units clean – Schedule routine maintenance of your furnace and air conditioner. Consider replacing it with a new high-efficiency model if you have an older system. Regularly change the air filters on your unit. If you have pets, take them outside before turning on your system to avoid stirring up dirt and dander from the floor.
Postpone renovations – If you plan to renovate your home, try to wait until after completing the renovation before having your ducts cleaned.
Vacuum your furniture and floors often – This will help reduce the amount of dust that collects in your home.
Vacuum regularly using a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner – Dust particles will remain suspended in the air until they settle somewhere else. A professional vacuuming can help capture small particles before they spread throughout your home. It’s best to use these appliances to clean according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Have your carpets and drapes cleaned regularly – Dust mites love to live in dirty fabric, so regular cleaning can help reduce their numbers.
Why Hire A Professional Duct Cleaning Service?
Duct cleaning is a big job and can be very dangerous if not done correctly. Professionals have the experience and equipment to clean your ducts quickly and safely without disrupting your home’s airflow.
They will also be able to identify any potential problems with your air duct system and provide solutions to help improve the quality of air in your home.
If you consider having your ducts cleaned, it is vital to research the different companies in your area and compare prices. By taking the time to do your homework, you can be sure that you are getting the best possible service at a fair price.
Average Cost of Duct Cleaning – Conclusion
The average cost of duct cleaning is $300 to $1,000. The price can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and layout of your home, the number of air vents, and the type of solution used during the cleaning process.
Hiring a professional air duct cleaning service is the best way to ensure that your ducts are clean and safe. By following the tips above, you can help reduce the amount of dust and debris in your home, which may help lessen the need for future cleanings.