Duct Cleaning - How Long & How Often?

HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs

In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan interviews Zach from Southeast Clean Air Solutions about the intricacies of professional duct cleaning. Zach specializes in addressing duct cleaning challenges specific to the Southeastern climate, with a particular focus on fiberglass-lined ducts. The conversation delves into the complexities of cleaning different types of duct systems, highlighting the significant variations in time, technique, and approach depending on the duct materials and home configuration.

The discussion reveals that duct cleaning is far more nuanced than many homeowners realize. A typical residential duct cleaning can take between six to eight hours, with metal ductwork being significantly faster to clean than flexible ducts or fiberglass-lined systems. Zach emphasizes the importance of careful cleaning techniques, especially with delicate flex ducts that can easily be punctured or damaged during the cleaning process. He recommends a two-person approach, with one team member working inside the home and another in the attic or crawl space to ensure thorough and safe cleaning.

Beyond the cleaning process, the podcast explores critical maintenance strategies for maintaining clean and efficient HVAC systems. Zach and Bryan discuss the importance of proper filtration, home maintenance, and understanding when duct cleaning is truly necessary. They challenge the common misconception of a fixed cleaning schedule, instead advocating for system assessment based on specific conditions like household dust, humidity, and the health needs of home occupants.

Key Topics Covered:

• Duct cleaning techniques for different duct materials (metal, flexible, fiberglass-lined)
• Time requirements for professional duct cleaning
• Challenges of cleaning ducts in various home configurations
• Importance of proper filtration and maintenance
• Factors determining duct cleaning frequency
• Risks associated with poorly maintained duct systems
• Two-person approach to thorough and safe duct cleaning
• Specialized considerations for homes in humid climates
• Post-cleaning sealant application for fiberglass-lined ducts

Learn more about NADCA and find certified duct cleaning contractors at https://nadca.com/.

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