Air Duct Cleaning Will Change the Way You Breathe – Part 2

Now you know the reasons why you should have your air ducts cleaned regularly, below are some helpful reminders on whom do you find to do the work.

How do you choose an air duct service company?

A word of caution if you make your decision based on price. The national average price to clean ducts for a medium size home will range from $400-$1,000. If you come across a company who can clean your ducts for an amount significantly less, then you are not getting a quality company and their process may leave you “breathless”. Properly cleaning your HVAC and duct system can’t be done for $100 or even $200. These companies are referred as “blow-and-go” air duct cleaning companies. These companies often charge a nominal fee and do a poor job of cleaning the heating and cooling system.

Ask for a description of their cleaning process. The top cleaning companies will use a rotary brush which will scour and clean the duct while using negative air pressure and a powerful vacuum to suck up the debris before it gets airborne.

You should also do your due diligence and research the companies you are calling. Go to their website (if they don’t have one that could be a red flag), are they part of the Better Business Bureau and are they a member of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).

Find out if you can be involved in the cleaning process by looking at your system before they start cleaning and after they are done. Ask them to show you the debris that was in your system. If they won’t/can’t show you the duct work before and after, you should be waiving another red flag. If you are not going to be home during the cleaning, demand before and after pictures so you can feel comfortable the work was actually done and your investment was worth it.

Finally, asking for references and referrals which will solidify you made the right contractor choice.

Points to Remember

1. Don’t make your choice strictly on price. All good companies are going to be in the same ballpark. Cheaper is never better and if it’s too good to be true, it is.
2. Ask about the cleaning process and confirm they are using negative air and a vacuum system.
3. Do your research, website, BBB, NADCA, references.
4. Get involved in the cleaning process to protect your investment.