The recommended frequency to clean your air ducts is only once every 5 to 7 years. This varies due to several factors in your home. The more you have, the closer together your air duct cleanings should be.
Factors include:
Number of shedding pets
Occupants who smoke
Prevalence of allergies and asthma among the occupants
If the HVAC system has been damaged by a fire or flood
Rodent and animal infestation
When looking for a trustworthy duct cleaning company, look for a team that upholds and supports NADCA's high standards and can help diagnose and resolve air duct related issues currently impacting your system.
As The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) was formed in 1989 as a non-profit association of companies engaged in the cleaning of HVAC systems. Its mission was to promote source removal as the only acceptable method of cleaning and to establish industry standards for the association.
Here is what NADCA says about hiring a reputable air duct cleaning contractor:
Make sure the company is a member in good standing of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).
See if the company has been in business long enough to have adequate experience.
Inquire whether the company is in good standing with your local Better Business Bureau.
Get proof that the company is properly licensed and adequately insured.
Verify that the company is certified by NADCA to perform HVAC system cleaning.
Make sure that the company is going to clean and visually inspect all of the air ducts and related system components.
Avoid advertisements for "$99 whole house specials" and other sales gimmicks.
Ask if the company has the right equipment to effectively perform cleaning and if the company has done work in homes like yours. Get references!
