Not all air duct systems require cleaning.

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems need to be cleaned when an inspection indicates that the system is contaminated. Contamination can include particulate matter or microbial contamination. Independent laboratory testing can confirm whether microbial contamination has reached or exceeded ambient outdoor levels. If the preliminary inspection shows HVAC system performance has been impacted due to contamination buildup, cleaning is usually recommended.

Often, HVAC system components collect significant amounts of debris and particulates during construction activities within a building. It is recommended that newly installed HVAC systems or HVAC systems undergoing renovation be confirmed clean and protected before the system is permitted to operate.

DUCTZ recommends that consistent HVAC system inspections be part of a building's overall indoor air quality (IAQ) management program. Table 1 below from the NADCA ACR2006 Standard indicates the recommended cleanliness inspection intervals:

Conditions in every building are different, therefore if you have questions on whether or not duct cleaning is a good idea for your home or commercial business, speak with one of our certified DUCTZ professionals. DUCTZ recommends having your air duct system cleaned on an as-needed basis, if there is substantial microbial growth or vermin infestation, or if your ducts are clogged with heavy amounts of dust, debris or other particulates that can be released into your home or commercial business. DUCTZ also recommends having your heating and cooling system components cleaned to optimize the efficiency of your system, resulting in a longer operating life as well as saving on energy and maintenance costs. You may want to consider improving the air quality in your home if:

• Smokers are present in your household
• Cooking methods adversely affect your indoor air quality
• Your pets shed large amounts of hair or dander
• Water or smoke damage is present
• Previous damage to the HVAC system has occurred
• Occupants have allergies or asthma
• Home renovations or remodeling created dusty conditions
• You are moving into a new or previously occupied home
• Pollen and allergy-producing flora exists around the home
• You live in a hot and humid climate or a dry climate
• Duct work consists of fiberglass-lined ducts or metal ductwork

Additionally, if one or more of these factors apply to your home, you'll want to consider having your ducts cleaned by a DUCTZ professional:

• If you dust more frequently than usual?
• You notice unusual odors when the HVAC system starts?
• There is visible dust buildup on supply vents?
• You notice streaking or black marks around heating and cooling supply vents?
• You or any family members suffer from allergies or respiratory issues?

DUCTZ professionals evaluate your home's unique indoor air quality situation and help you determine if having your duct system cleaned is a good idea. DUCTZ professionals adhere to NADCA and ACCA standards, undergo rigorous training and are committed to a program of on-going education. DUCTZ professionals use patented cleaning methods and specialized equipment to do the job right the first time. Upon job completion, DUCTZ professionals provide documentation, digital photography and/or visual inspection to ensure a job well done.

DUCTZ professionals are certified, qualified and trained to help you determine if having your HVAC system cleaned is a good option for you.

Contact your local DUCTZ office for more information.