28 Aug How Often Do Commercial Air Ducts Need To Be Cleaned?
Air duct cleaning should be a part of any property manager’s maintenance schedule. It’s an essential service to ensure you, your employees, and your customers are breathing quality air. Regular HVAC maintenance also improves your bottom line, boosting your energy efficiency and reducing costs on energy bills.
But how often should you clean commercial air ducts? This guide will provide you with expert insights into the frequency of duct cleaning, what the process involves, and key indicators that it’s time for a cleaning.
How Often You Should Clean Air Ducts
Industry experts recommend cleaning commercial air ducts every two to five years. Commercial ducts often require more frequent cleaning than residential ducts because commercial HVAC systems are larger and more complex. The frequency can vary depending on the property’s location, the type of business, and the building’s overall air quality.
For example, a restaurant with high foot traffic could need professional air duct cleaning as often as once per quarter to prevent contamination. On the other hand, offices and retail spaces may be safe going over three years without professional cleaning. Annual inspections from an HVAC professional will determine the best schedule, ensuring that air ducts remain in optimal condition and contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
What Does Duct Cleaning Entail?
A comprehensive duct cleaning begins with a thorough inspection to check for signs of damage or areas for potential mold growth to address before cleaning. Once they complete this task, an air duct professional will clean all heating and cooling system components, such as the supply and return air ducts, grilles, diffusers, and heat exchangers. Afterward, they’ll use a sanitizing gas to kill any remaining bacteria microbes inside the duct. This thorough approach helps maintain efficient airflow and reduces contaminants.
Signs Ducts Need Cleaning
Property managers should be aware of clear signs indicating that commercial air ducts need cleaning. Visible mold growth inside the ducts or on other HVAC components is a serious indicator that you need to take action. Also, if you notice an accumulation of dust or debris around the vents, this may suggest the ducts are clogged, leading to poor air quality.
Unusual odors when the HVAC system runs or an increase in allergy-like symptoms among building occupants can also be red flags. Addressing these signs promptly by scheduling a reliable air duct cleaning can prevent more significant issues in the future.
Regular air duct cleaning is crucial for maintaining a healthy and efficient building environment. By adhering to recommended cleaning schedules and staying alert to signs of clogged ducts, property managers can ensure optimal air quality for their tenants and employees. Partner with Duct Squads for professional air duct cleaning to enjoy cleaner indoor air and a safer work environment.