Is Duct Cleaning for HVAC Necessary?

Dust accumulates inside ducts.

Benefits of Duct Cleaning

Cleaning removes mold and vermin from the ducts if present, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). People with asthma, allergies or other respiratory problems may want to have ducts cleaned to remove as much dust as possible from their environment.

Problems with Duct Cleaning

Possible health benefits of duct cleaning have never been proven, according to the EPA. The safety and effectiveness of chemicals used by some professional duct cleaners remain poorly understood. Poorly performed duct cleaning can result in higher dust levels in the home or damaged ducts.

Bottom Line

Have your ducts cleaned by a qualified professional if the ducts contain mold, dust or pests or as recommended by a physician for health reasons. There is little evidence to support regular duct cleaning in other circumstances, according to the EPA.

References

• U.S. EPA: Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned?

Resources

• NADCA: Home