While professional air duct cleaning should occur every 1 to 3 years, there are tips you can take to help keep ducts cleaner in between these sessions. Regularly replacing air filters, vacuuming vents, and sealing duct leaks can help trap contaminants and extend the time before your next full duct cleaning. Maintaining cleaner ducts improves the performance of your HVAC system and indoor air quality.
First and foremost, changing air filters monthly is essential.Filters trap particles like dust and dander before they enter your ductwork. Higher MERV rated filters are more effective but require more frequent changes. Aim to replace basic filters every 30 days and higher MERV filters every 2 to 3 months.
You should also vacuum HVAC vents and registers every few months. This captures large debris that makes it past air filters. Remove vent covers and use the crevice tool on your vacuum to gently suck out dust and debris from vent openings. Be careful not to bend or damage vent fins during cleaning.
Additionally, sealing any obvious duct leaks can help minimize contaminant buildup. Visually inspect ducts located in unconditioned spaces like crawlspaces, attics, and garages for holes or loose connections. Apply duct mastic or aluminum tape to seal small leaks. Larger tears may require more substantial repair by a professional. Sealing duct leaks captures the cooling and heating capabilities of your HVAC system for peak efficiency and performance.
Besides replacing filters and vacuuming vents, homeowners can keep indoor pollutants to a minimum between duct cleanings by adopting a few simple habits. These include:
- Cleaning floors and surfaces regularly to reduce dust and dander in the air that makes its way into your ductwork.
- Using exhaust fans while cooking to prevent grease buildup in air ducts and vents over time.
- Vacuuming upholstered furniture weekly to remove trapped dust and allergens before they circulate through your HVAC system.
- Changing air filters in window units when replacing central HVAC filters to maintain cleaner air throughout your entire home.
In summary, the most effective tips to extend the lifespan between professional air duct cleanings are replacing filters monthly, vacuuming vents quarterly, and sealing obvious duct leaks. Adopting good housekeeping practices that minimize indoor pollutants will further contribute to cleaner ducts and healthier indoor air. However, professional duct cleaning remains essential for thoroughly removing built-up contaminants that home maintenance cannot tackle.