The general guideline: every 3 to 5 years
Many duct cleaning professionals use every 3 to 5 years as a starting point for a typical home. It's a guideline, not a rule. The right timing for your home depends on how you live in it and what's going on inside the ducts.
Why South Florida homes may need it sooner
In South Florida the AC runs for most of the year. Every hour it runs, air moves through your ducts and carries dust, pet hair and pollen with it. Humid outdoor air also adds moisture to the system. More airflow and more moisture can mean buildup collects faster than in places where the AC sits off for half the year.
Homes that usually need cleaning more often
- Homes with dogs or cats
- Anyone in the home with allergies or asthma
- Homes that were recently renovated or remodeled
- Homes where people smoke indoors
- Homes that were just purchased, where you don't know when the ducts were last cleaned
Signs it's time, whatever the calendar says
Grey dust collecting on or around the vents, a musty smell when the AC turns on, furniture that gets dusty again a day after you clean, or debris you can see when you remove a vent cover. If you notice these, it makes sense to have the ducts inspected.
Start with an inspection
A good duct cleaning company should look inside your ducts before recommending a cleaning, and show you photos. If your ducts are in good shape, you should hear that too. At Air Duct Kings FL we take before photos during the inspection so you can decide for yourself.