It’s often said clean ducts can improve indoor air quality (IAQ), but did you know duct cleaning can help reduce your energy bill by up to 30% (according to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA))? Your HVAC system is one of your home’s biggest sources of energy consumption. However, regular maintenance helps manage energy costs.
Licensed contractors use effective methods to clean air ducts. Such measures aren’t recommended as often as, for example, heating or cooling unit tune-ups, but can have benefits. We’ll look at how clean ducts can help you save energy.
The Relationship Between Clean Ducts and Energy Efficiency
All the air your HVAC system heats or cools passes through ductwork. Your heating and cooling system uses consistent airflow to serve each room equally. Therefore, dirt buildup and clogs can significantly reduce comfort and indoor air quality. They can also cause your HVAC unit to work harder to compensate for reduced airflow and temperature control issues.
However, cleaning out ducts can help you save energy in the following ways:
- Airflow Is Improved: Dust, dirt, dander, particulates, and animal waste can obstruct air ducts (and cause indoor air quality issues). These reduce airflow, so your HVAC unit doesn’t work as effectively. Restoring normal airflow enables the system to work at full capacity. You should notice the difference in temperature control and feel a stronger draft from air vents throughout your home.
- Heat Exchange Is More Effective: Debris in the channels of your duct system can make it difficult for warm air to reach your entire home. Even if your furnace is generating enough warmth, warm air won’t reach each room evenly when ducts are coated in dirt or clogged.
- Cool Air Can Circulate Better: Clean ducts help your air conditioner work more effectively. If ducts are obstructed, rooms can become uncomfortably warm. The thermostat registers this and signals the AC to work harder. Duct cleaning removes debris to help your air conditioning system cool your home faster and more effectively.
- Your HVAC System Uses Less Energy: Dirty ducts create resistance your HVAC system must overcome to heat or cool your home. Properly cleaning out ducts eliminates this resistance, so your AC or heater consumes less energy. This can translate to lower monthly utility bills.
- Duct Cleaning Reduces HVAC Strain: A strained HVAC system can develop problems with various components. When parts of it wear out, the entire system must work harder, which increases energy usage. Cleaner ducts can avoid various issues that waste energy and lead to costly repairs.
- Indoor Air Quality Is Improved: Dust, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens are removed when air ducts are cleaned. Aside from improving airflow, clean ducts can reduce the need for advanced air filtration and purification equipment that can consume additional energy.
- Clean Air Ducts Equal Improved Comfort: When your HVAC system maintains more consistent temperatures, you won’t need to adjust the thermostat as often. Changing the settings frequently can increase energy consumption, which is another reason clean ducts can save on energy costs.
Once you have your air ducts cleaned, the energy savings can be seen on your next energy bill. Long-term savings are also possible, in the form of fewer repairs or a delay in having to replace the system. Reduced medical expenses related to allergies, respiratory issues, and other IAQ-related health concerns can also contribute to potential savings.
Duct cleaning can have other downstream effects. These include lower costs associated with cleaning your home. If there’s less dust, you may need fewer cleaning supplies, and your vacuum may last longer. The overall condition of your home can improve. This can ultimately increase your property’s resale value.
How Air Ducts Are Cleaned
Source removal is the most direct method and generally what an air duct cleaning service entails. During the process, the contractor employs a specialized vacuum to place the duct system under negative pressure. Compressed air nozzles, brushes, and air whips loosen debris in ducts while the vacuum pulls in unwanted particulates and materials.
Other Duct Maintenance Methods to Save Energy
Cleaning out ducts is one way to save energy. However, there are other ways to address efficiency issues related to your ductwork. Regular maintenance is essential. Some ways to maintain air ducts include the following:
- Routine Inspections: Check for visible signs of dust buildup, mold growth, or damage to accessible ductwork. Also, schedule regular air duct inspections by your local HVAC contractor. They can recommend ductwork services that can save energy.
- Duct Sealing: Air leaks from ducts can significantly reduce efficiency and cause HVAC performance and indoor air quality issues. Aside from sealing small holes, cracks, and loose connections, insulating ductwork can prevent air leakage and heat loss/gain.
- Replace Air Filters: Clean ducts don’t make replacing air filters less important. A dirty filter also restricts airflow. Follow your HVAC contractor’s and manufacturer’s instructions for when to replace air filters so the system performs more efficiently.
How Often Should Ducts Be Cleaned Out?
According to the NADCA, you should hire a contractor to clean ducts every three to five years. You can do so more frequently if your home has indoor air quality issues, you have shedding pets, or someone in your household smokes. Duct cleaning should also be considered after you move into a new home or complete a large remodeling project.
Is Duct Cleaning Expensive?
According to Angi, the average cost to clean ducts is $370. Larger duct systems or more extensive contamination can cost more to clean. You may also spend more if a contractor finds other HVAC issues to repair or if mold removal is required.
Contact Monarch Home Services
Our NATE- and EPA-certified HVAC professionals provide high-quality duct cleaning services in the San Joaquin Valley. They evaluate and clean your ductwork. Therefore, clean ducts can lower costs and contribute to improved HVAC efficiency, indoor air quality, and health. We recommend service if you’ve recently completed an interior renovation or you have moisture and humidity issues in your home. Call (661) 452-8707 today to schedule your duct cleaning service.