When it comes to cleaning the air ducts in your home, there are typically two main cleaning options to choose from: standard cleaning or a more thorough deep cleaning. Both can be effective at removing contaminants from your ventilation system, but they differ in terms of the level of cleaning provided. Let’s explore the differences between standard and deep duct cleaning so you can determine which is best suit for your home.
Standard air duct cleaning
It primarily involves cleaning the accessible surface areas of the ductwork from the exterior. Duct cleaning professionals will use brushes, vacuums, and anti-microbial solutions to scrub and extract debris and contaminants from the tops and sides of the metal ducts. However, standard cleaning only addresses the outermost layer and does not involve taking apart the duct assembly. As a result, it provides a general cleansing of what can be readily see and reach.
Deep duct cleaning
It is a more invasive process that delivers a deeper level of cleaning. It not only includes scrubbing and vacuuming accessible surfaces but also dismantling sections of the ductwork system. This enables technicians to thoroughly clean areas that are not normally visible or accessible. Sections of sheet metal, joints, and corners can be disconnect and individually clean. Additionally, deep cleaning also targets REGISTER the air handler unit and returns. By taking the time to dismantle parts of the ventilation system, a deep cleaning extracts embedded contaminants more effectively than a standard approach.
Given its less extensive approach
the time and cost commitment for standard duct cleaning tends to be lower than a deep cleaning service. Standard cleaning of a 1,500 square foot home often takes 2-4 hours to complete at a cost that ranges from $200-$500 depending on the number of vents and registers. However, without disassembling the ductwork, some residue and contaminants may remain in harder to reach nooks and crannies.
In contrast, a deep duct cleaning requires more labor and equipment as parts of the duct assembly are removed for individual cleaning and sanitation. This process normally takes 4-8 hours to thoroughly dismantle, clean, sanitize, reinstall, and seal sections of the duct system. Correspondingly, homeowners can expect to pay $500-$1,000 on average for comprehensive deep cleaning service in a home of similar size. While more expensive up front, the deeper cleanout removes contaminants that lodge in duct crevices, providing long-lasting air purification benefits.
In conclusion, both standard and deep duct cleaning options services can enhance indoor air quality. However, standard cleaning provides a surface-level clean while deep cleaning goes further to remove embedded allergens and residue from the entire ventilation system. Homeowners should select the cleaning approach that matches their budget and desired level of cleanliness based on factors like home size, age of ducts, and existing contaminants. With a deeper dismantling and cleaning, homeowners can breathe easy knowing their air ducts are thoroughly purged top-to-bottom of contaminants.