Is air duct cleaning necessary?

After extensive research into the practice of “Duct Cleaning”, Powell Heating & Air is of the opinion that there is no actual benefit to a customer or proof of air quality improvement and therefore we will not offer the service.

Based on our research, we have come to the following conclusions:

  • There is no proof of air improvement
  • The cleaning process poses a potential risk of damage to ductwork
  • Anything that would NEED to be removed from the ductwork, can ONLY be remedied by replacing the section of ductwork affected
  • As most homes in Florida are constructed with insulated ductwork (no metal), there is no way for the duct cleaning tools to remove everything from within that insulation
  • Most companies offer this service as a way to improve their bottom-line

There’s growing evidence duct cleaning may be a solution in search of a problem, rather than cure for what ails the air in your home.

Below are some of the sources for this information, as well as a link to an informative article on the process:

“Duct cleaning has never been shown to actually prevent health problems. Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g. dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts.”
– The US Environmental Protection Agency –EPA

“Consider having your ductwork professionally inspected if someone in your home is suffering from unexplained allergies or illness. Before you do that, however, a doctor should rule out other causes.”
– Consumer Reports, Scam Alert: avoid “dirty duct cleaners” Feb 4, 2008

“Duct cleaning often not necessary: There’s growing evidence duct cleaning may be a solution in search of a problem, rather than cure for what ails the air in your home.”
– Realty Times Real Estate News and Advice Nov 12, 2009

“If you have insulated air ducts and the insulation gets wet or moldy, it can not be effectively cleaned and should be removed and replaced.”
– EPA: Should you have the air ducts in your home cleaned?

Read this Washington Post article for more information: “Considering having your air ducts cleaned? Think again.”