Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the normal price range for the air duct cleaning service?

A: Depending on the size of the system, system accessibility and the level of contamination and type of duct material, the EPA says that "Duct Cleaning services typically - but not always - range in the cost from $450.00 to $1,000.00 per heating and cooling system.

Q: How long should it take to clean a typical residential HVAC system?

A: There are a variety of factors that could affect the time needed to clean a residential HVAC system, including the type of home, accessibility of the ductwork, and the number of workers on the project. A typical three or four bedroom home will require 4 to 8 hours for cleaning.

Q: How should a residential HVAC system be cleaned?

A: The most effective way to clean air ducts and the ventilation systems is the employ Source Removal methods of cleaning. This requires a contractor to place the system under negative pressure, through the use of a specialized, powerful vacuum. While the vacuum draws air through the system, devices are inserted into the ducts to dislodge any debris that might be stuck to interior surfaces. The debris can then travel down the ducts to the vacuum, which removes it from the system and the home.

Q: Are there any health benefits that come from HVAC system cleaning?

A: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems have been shown to act as a collection source for a variety of contaminants that have the potential to affect health, such as mold, fungi, bacterial, and very small particles of dust. The removal of such contaminants from the HVAC system and the home should be considered as one of the components in an overall plan to improve indoor air quality.

Q: Why should I choose a NADCA member to have my air ducts cleaned?

A: NADCA Members have signed a Code of Ethics stating they will do everything possible to protect the consumer, and follow NADCA Standards for cleaning to the best of their ability. Air duct cleaning companies must meet stringent requirements to become a NADCA Member. Among those requirements, all NADCA Members must have certified Air System Cleaning Specialists (ASCS) on staff, who have taken and passed the NADCA Certification Examination. Passing the exam demonstrates extensive knowledge in the HVAC design and cleaning methodologies. ASCSs are also required to further their industry education by attending seminars in order to maintain their NADCA certification status.

You may view the NADCA Code of Ethics at www.nadca.com

Q: How can we determine if the HVAC system cleaning was effective?

A: The best way to determine if the HVAC system cleaning is effective is to perform a visual inspection of the system before and after cleaning. If any dust of debris can be seen during the visual inspection, the system should not be considered cleaned. While you can perform your own visual inspection using a flashlight and mirror, a professional cleaning contractor should be able to allow you better access to the system components and perhaps the use of specialized inspection tools.

Q: What criteria should I use in selecting an HVAC system cleaner?

A: Interview as many local contractors as you can, and ask them to come to your home to perform a system inspection and give you a quote. To narrow down your pool of potential contractors, use the following pre-qualifications:

• Make sure the company is a certified member in good standing of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).
• See if the company has been in business long enough to have adequate experience.
• Enquire whether the company is in good standing with your local Better Business Bureau.
• Get proof that the company in properly licensed and adequately insured.
• Make sure the company is going to clean and visually inspect all of the air ducts and related system components.
• Avoid advertisements for “$99 whole house specials” and other sales gimmicks.
• Ask if the company has the right equipment to effectively perform cleaning, and if the company has done work in homes similar to yours? Get references from neighbors if possible.