How Often Should You Clean Your Air Ducts?

One of the most common questions we hear from homeowners is "how often should I have my air ducts cleaned?" The answer depends on several factors specific to your home and lifestyle.

The General Recommendation

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends having your air ducts professionally cleaned every 3 to 5 years. However, this is just a baseline—your specific situation may require more frequent cleaning.

Factors That Increase Cleaning Frequency

You may need to clean your ducts more often if:

• Pets: Homes with dogs or cats should consider cleaning every 2-3 years due to pet dander and hair accumulation.
• Allergies or Asthma: Family members with respiratory conditions benefit from cleaner ducts and may need annual cleaning.
• Smokers in the Home: Tobacco smoke residue builds up in ductwork and requires more frequent attention.
• Recent Renovation: Construction creates significant dust that enters your HVAC system.
• New Home Purchase: You don't know the maintenance history, so start fresh with a cleaning.

Signs Your Ducts Need Cleaning Now

Don't wait for the calendar—watch for these warning signs:

• Visible dust blowing from vents when HVAC runs
• Musty or stale odors coming from vents
• Increased dust accumulation on furniture
• Allergy symptoms worsening indoors
• Visible mold growth near vents
• Uneven airflow between rooms

Benefits of Regular Duct Cleaning

Keeping your ducts clean provides multiple benefits: improved indoor air quality, better HVAC efficiency (lower energy bills), reduced allergens, elimination of odors, and extended equipment lifespan.