Good To know
Air Duct Cleaning Facts
Indoor Air Quality
- According to the EPA, indoor air can be 2–5 times more polluted than outdoor air.
- Dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and bacteria accumulate inside ducts and circulate every time your HVAC system runs.
- Poor air quality can trigger allergies, asthma, headaches, and other respiratory issues.
Dust & Debris Buildup
- An average home produces 40 pounds of dust each year, much of which settles inside air ducts.
- Construction or remodeling projects release drywall dust, wood particles, and chemicals that remain trapped in ducts.
- Insects and rodents may also leave droppings or nesting material inside ductwork.
Energy Efficiency
- Dust and debris force your HVAC system to work harder, reducing efficiency.
- A clean duct system improves airflow and can cut energy costs by up to 20%.
- Regular duct cleaning extends the lifespan of your HVAC equipment by reducing strain.
Mold & Bacteria
- Moisture in ducts can lead to mold growth, which spreads spores throughout your home or business.
- Mold and bacteria can cause unpleasant odors, health problems, and long-term damage if left untreated.
- Professional cleaning and sanitization help eliminate these contaminants.
Recommended Cleaning Frequency
- Residential air ducts: every 3–5 years
- Homes with pets, smokers, or allergy sufferers: every 2–3 years
- After renovations or water damage: immediately
- Commercial buildings: annually or as recommended by HVAC professionals
Dryer Vent Safety Tips
Fire Prevention
- The U.S. Fire Administration reports that nearly 3,000 dryer fires occur every year, causing millions in property damage.
- The leading cause is lint buildup inside dryer vents, which is highly flammable.
- A professional cleaning at least once a year greatly reduces this risk.
Efficiency & Performance
- A clogged dryer vent makes your dryer work harder and longer, wasting energy.
- Clothes may take 2–3 cycles longer to dry if the vent is blocked.
- Regular cleaning helps your dryer run efficiently, saving both time and money.
Warning Signs of a Blocked Dryer Vent
- Clothes take longer than usual to dry
- Dryer feels unusually hot after use
- Burning smell while dryer is running
- Excess lint behind the dryer or around the vent opening
- Increased energy bills without explanation
Maintenance Recommendations
- Annual professional cleaning is recommended for most households.
- For larger households or heavy laundry use, cleaning every 6 months may be needed.
- Always clean the lint trap after every load.
- Check outside vent covers regularly for blockages (like lint, leaves, or bird nests).
Benefits of Regular Dryer Vent Cleaning
- Reduces risk of house fires
- Extends the lifespan of your dryer
- Lowers energy bills by improving efficiency
- Improves indoor air quality by preventing excess humidity and dust
Dryer Vent Maintenance Recommendations
Daily / After Each Load
- Clean the lint trap before or after every drying cycle. This is the first line of defense against lint buildup.
- Check clothes for excessive lint or pet hair before drying to minimize clogging.
Monthly
- Inspect the vent hose behind your dryer to make sure it isn’t kinked, crushed, or disconnected.
- Vacuum around and behind the dryer to remove dust, lint, and debris that may escape the filter.
- Check the vent flap outside your home — it should open easily while the dryer is running.
Every 6–12 Months
- Schedule professional dryer vent cleaning (annually for most households, every 6 months for heavy laundry use, large families, or commercial laundries).
- Have your dryer inspected for proper airflow, vent length, and hose connections.
- Replace vinyl or plastic vent hoses with rigid or semi-rigid metal ducts — safer and less likely to trap lint.
Additional Tips
- Do not overload your dryer — it reduces efficiency and increases heat buildup.
- If you notice burning smells, excess heat, or unusually long drying times, stop using the dryer and call a professional.
- Consider installing a dryer vent alarm that alerts you when airflow is restricted.
Benefits of Regular Cleaning
Air Duct Cleaning Benefits
✅ Healthier Air Quality – Removes dust, allergens, pet dander, mold spores, and bacteria from circulating in your home.
✅ Allergy & Asthma Relief – Cleaner air helps reduce symptoms for sensitive family members.
✅ Odor Elimination – Gets rid of musty, smoky, or pet odors trapped in ducts.
✅ Energy Efficiency – Clean ducts improve airflow, reducing strain on your HVAC system.
✅ Extended HVAC Lifespan – Less dust and debris means less wear and tear on expensive heating and cooling equipment.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Benefits
✅ Fire Safety – Reduces the #1 cause of dryer fires: lint buildup.
✅ Lower Energy Bills – Improves dryer efficiency, cutting down drying time and electricity use.
✅ Faster Drying – Clothes dry quicker and more evenly with proper airflow.
✅ Appliance Longevity – Prevents overheating and extends the life of your dryer.
✅ Better Indoor Air Quality – Stops lint, dust, and humidity from leaking back into your home.
Combined Benefits
A cleaner, safer, and more comfortable home environment
Peace of mind knowing your family is protected
Savings on energy and costly repairs in the long run
