Every one knows you should have your air ducts cleaned during the winter time. Having your air ducts cleaned is very important but can often be forgotten about. As a rule of thumb, it is suggested that you get your ducts clean every 3-5 years. Some homes may require cleaning more often, especially if you have pets or allergies. The more you clean your ducts the more you will benefit from them. Not cleaning for some time can lead to a build-up of grit and grime resulting in poor air quality among other issues. It is especially important to clean your ducts prior to or during summer for many reasons. Read on to learn why you should have your ducts cleaned this summer.
Eliminates Pests
Leading up to and during the colder months, pests of all sizes (think insects and small animals) are out seeking warmth and shelter. A hot spot for pests happens to be in your home, especially if you have a duct system. Pests are attracted to the warm and safe space provided.
Having your ducts cleaned in the summer will eliminate any pests that have been camping in your space for months now. If you do not have your ducts cleaned, these areas can become breeding grounds and the pests may start to take over more spaces in your home. To avoid a full infestation, be sure to have your ducts cleaned this summer.
Improves Air Quality
If your ducts go uncleaned for a long time, dust and debris will start to build up. There are filters in place to trap some of it, but smaller particles will still make their way through. A buildup of debris does not only block the airflow through your ducts, but it can also recirculate the dust particles throughout your home, leaving your air unclean.
During the warmer months, when allergies are especially strong, having dust circulating through your home will only make your symptoms worse. Having your ducts cleaned in the summer will drastically improve your indoor air quality and improve your allergy symptoms.
Cuts Costs
Dirty ducts can cause a strain on your HVAC system by blocking airflow. Your HVAC system will have to work even harder to push air through, warm or cold, in order to operate properly. This extra strain will shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system. At the same time, since the system will have to work harder in order to cool or warm your home you may see an increase in your utility bill as more energy will have to be used to function. Having your ducts cleaned regularly, and during the warmer months will increase the longevity of your system and save you money in the long run.
Below are the average costs of Duct Cleaning services across different cities in Canada:
| City | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
| Barrie | $1,759 | $140 | $11,000 |
| Calgary | $1,467 | $100 | $47,500 |
| Edmonton | $1,410 | $100 | $48,700 |
| Hamilton | $927 | $100 | $9,500 |
| Oshawa | $1,195 | $100 | $10,000 |
| Ottawa | $1,544 | $100 | $44,000 |
| Toronto | $600 | $100 | $47,000 |
| Vancouver | $477 | $100 | $34,945 |
*Costs based on 8682 verified Canadian homeowner reviews as of March 2022
While it is suggested that you have your ducts cleaned every 3-5 years, having them cleaned or checked more regularly for any build-up or unwanted guests can help to improve the quality of the system, your indoor air quality, and your health. Contact a pro today to have your air ducts cleaned to keep your home feeling fresh all summer.
Article Updated June 2022.
