At Trio Heating & Air, we realize there’s much to know about duct cleaning; it can even help manage your energy costs. Our team cleans air ducts and provides other air quality services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. The cleaning methods we use are safe, non-toxic, and effective. They reduce the amount of energy your HVAC system uses in several ways and can also increase its lifespan.

How Does Duct Cleaning Work?

Having your air ducts cleaned professionally provides a means of source removal. Instead of filtering dust, dirt, or debris, it physically removes contaminants using advanced vacuum equipment that puts the system under negative pressure. Compressed air nozzles, brushes, and air whips help loosen and remove debris from inside ducts. Once these materials are broken free, they are pulled into the vacuum system.

How Duct Cleaning Reduces Energy Consumption

To understand how cleaning ductwork can control energy usage, let’s look at the potential impacts of neglecting dirty ducts. Dirt accumulation and other contamination can cause the following issues in your home:

• Reduced airflow in your HVAC system.
• Strain on your AC or heater as it tries to compensate.
• Uneven heating and cooling throughout your home.
• Increased wear and tear on HVAC equipment.
• A decrease in energy efficiency.

Air ducts play a significant role in how your HVAC system regulates indoor temperature. Any issue that causes your heating and cooling system to work harder contributes to increased energy consumption. Various issues can cause your energy bill to go up unexpectedly. But duct cleaning can manage your energy costs in the following ways:

Smoother Airflow

A thin coating of dust, pollen, grime, debris, or mold can disrupt the flow of air in ducts. You don’t need a full blockage to cause problems. Increased friction causes your HVAC system to work harder to deliver enough air at the right temperature to different rooms. Duct cleaning removes the materials that cause airflow issues, improving system efficiency and reducing energy costs.

Duct Leaks Can Be Sealed

While cleaning ductwork, a technician can perform an inspection to find duct leaks. These can come from cracks, tears, and loose connections. Sealing these leaks reduces air leakage, which can waste a substantial amount of energy. Depending on the size and number of leaks, 30% or more of the conditioned air can escape into the attic, crawl space, or other unconditioned parts of your home, causing your energy bill to spike.

Improved HVAC System Efficiency

If your ducts are dirty, HVAC components can become dirty, too. Debris can build up on coils, insulating them and impeding heat transfer. All the components of your heating and cooling system are interconnected, so if one's performance is hindered, the system works less efficiently. Therefore, by removing debris, duct cleaning improves efficiency because your HVAC system can run more smoothly.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

A duct cleaning service can improve indoor air quality (IAQ). Better IAQ means fewer pollutants to reduce your HVAC unit’s efficiency. It also contributes to a healthier living space. The same pollutants that coat air ducts—dust, allergens, mold, etc.—can circulate in the air and cause allergies or illness. That’s one more reason to schedule a duct cleaning and find ways to control energy costs.

Increased HVAC System Lifespan

Keeping energy costs down requires improving HVAC system efficiency. When efficiency is improved via duct cleaning and other forms of maintenance, you can reduce wear and tear on the system. This means well-maintained components are less likely to malfunction and break down. The need for premature replacement is also less likely if you schedule regular maintenance (this can include cleaning and sanitizing air ducts).

When to Schedule a Duct Cleaning

The guidelines for cleaning air ducts aren’t as tight as for scheduling annual HVAC maintenance. Nonetheless, it’s a good idea for a technician to inspect ductwork once a year. It allows them to determine if dust and debris are accumulating. More comprehensive cleanings are recommended every three to five years by professionals and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

However, you may want to consider more frequent duct cleanings or schedule one sooner rather than later in the following circumstances:

• You have pets or live in a high-pollen area.
• Members of your family experience increased allergy symptoms or respiratory issues. 
• A significant buildup of dust and debris.
• There are signs of mold or other contamination.
• A home construction or renovation project was just completed.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

If you live in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, you can rely on our licensed technicians to keep your air ducts in peak shape. Trio Heating & Air provides high-quality duct cleaning and other indoor air quality services using the latest tools and technology. We also install whole-home air purification systems. Contact us today to learn more or request an appointment.

Like many people, you probably don’t think of air duct sealing and the hazards it can avoid when scheduling HVAC maintenance. Properly sealed ducts ensure your heating and cooling system works properly and increases efficiency. Duct sealing also has safety implications. Several hazards can be encountered if you have leaky ducts. As The Greater San Francisco Bay Area’s leading air sealing specialists, we’ll explain the top safety concerns of poorly sealed ducts.

Schedule Air Duct Sealing with Trio Heating & Air

Backdrafts

Poor Air Quality

Health Issues

Pests

Moisture Damage

Mold

Discomfort

1. Backdrafts

Furnaces, water heaters, clothes dryers, and other gas-using appliances normally vent noxious gases out of your home. However, gases like carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide can enter poorly sealed air ducts and “backdraft” into your home. Breathing these in can get you very sick or be deadly. Therefore, air duct sealing can save your life.

2. Poor Air Quality

Aside from toxic and combustible gases, poorly sealed ducts can allow various other pollutants into your home that reduce indoor air quality (IAQ). These include dust, particles from deteriorating insulation, and fumes from cleaning chemicals. You’ll breathe these in all day and while you sleep. A local HVAC contractor should test for them and other indoor air pollutants before and after sealing your air ducts to ensure any underlying issues are resolved.

3. Health Issues

Poor IAQ, which can result from leaky ducts, may impact your health significantly. The symptoms persist as long as your air is contaminated and are most prevalent while you’re at home. You and anyone in your household can get very sick if nothing is done about it. Therefore, consider air duct sealing whenever you experience the following symptoms:

• Eye, nose, and throat irritation
• Coughing and sneezing
• Sinus congestion
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Fatigue

4. Pests

The tiniest air duct leak is enough for roaches, ants, spiders, and other bugs to get into your home. Rodents and other small animals can also get through holes, gaps, and tears in ductwork. Pests aren’t only something you don’t want to see. They can also cause harm to your health and home. Fortunately, well-sealed ducts can prevent them from getting inside.

5. Moisture Damage

Air duct sealing can protect your valuables. If your ductwork leaks, indoor humidity can become out of control, leading to moisture damage to wood furniture, flooring, antiques, and everything from books to appliances.  Drywall and other building materials can also be damaged. Moisture issues combined with other problems related to poorly sealed ducts can impact your home’s infrastructure and reduce its long-term value.

6. Mold

The presence of moisture increases the risk of mold growth. Mold can grow in the dark confines of air ducts and spread uncontrolled while releasing spores into the air. Since many types of mold are toxic, it’s important to address the issue quickly. 

To make matters worse, the moisture entering air ducts will reach conditioned spaces. This provides mold with the right environment to continue growing and spreading. It can grow on walls, ceilings, furniture, carpets, and just about any surface if there’s enough moisture.

7. Discomfort

Significant air duct leaks can allow outside air in or let conditioned air escape. When either of these issues happens, your HVAC system must work harder. But no matter how overworked it becomes, heating or cooling your home is more difficult. 

Poorly sealed ducts can leave your family too warm or too cool. Setting and resetting the thermostat does not help, and you end up being uncomfortable all the time. This makes it hard to be productive, enjoy your home, or even sleep.

Can Air Duct Sealing Present Hazards?

Sealing air ducts is safe when done by a professional. Consider hiring a contractor when your HVAC system is installed, you move into a new house with an older HVAC system, or when maintenance is scheduled. They have the knowledge and tools to work safely and seal your air ducts properly.

The risks mostly pertain to DIY air duct sealing. Trying to save on the costs of hiring a professional can do more harm than good and lead to more expenses. If your ducts are insufficiently sealed, air leaks can still occur. Improper sealing can also cause harmful chemicals to be released into your home, especially if you have little knowledge of sealant materials.

You also risk causing damage to ductwork, creating air pressure imbalances, and triggering issues with home heating and cooling.

Schedule Air Duct Sealing with Trio Heating & Air

We provide air sealing by highly-trained technicians. When servicing your ductwork, they perform a thorough inspection and seal leak spots with a special HVAC sealant tape and heat-resistant silicone. Our customers in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties also rely on us for indoor air quality services, including whole-house air purifier installation. To learn more or request air duct sealing or IAQ services, call (415) 532-2984 today.

The link between efficient heating and air duct cleaning may become more evident as the days get cooler. Duct cleaning is more than about reducing dust. It can improve your HVAC system’s energy efficiency and performance. The duct cleaning professionals at Trio Heating & Air help achieve these results by removing contaminants and addressing issues that increase energy consumption and utility costs.

A Look at How Air Ducts Work

The potential to save energy is just one thing you need to know about duct cleaning, but it is a significant benefit. Before exploring this connection further, we’ll explain briefly how air ducts work.

When your heater switches on, the return vent draws in indoor air. This air travels through return ducts to a furnace or heat pump. Once it’s warmed, the air is moved to the supply air ducts. It then enters rooms via the supply vents.

The smoother the interior of a duct, the less friction that can slow the air. Dust, dirt, debris, microbial growth, and other contaminants can disrupt airflow when they accumulate on surfaces. This makes your HVAC system work harder and consume more energy.

How Air Duct Cleaning Yields More Efficient Heating

The dirt and debris in your ductwork are hidden. Since your ducts are concealed, you may not be aware of excessive buildup. However, your comfort may start to decline. But without a good look at your ducts, it’s hard to know the source of the issue. 

Staying warm is just one side of the story. There’s a strong connection between efficient heating and air duct cleaning. Let’s look at this link by explaining how duct cleaning can have a positive impact on your heating system, home, and the environment:

Improve HVAC Unit Performance

In dirty ducts, friction slows the air, while excessive buildup can block airflow. Your heating unit will struggle if too little air reaches it. Duct cleaning restores airflow, which helps reduce the load on your heater. This optimizes efficiency because energy consumption is less than it otherwise would be. The unit also won’t run as frequently or turn on and off as often, which saves energy. It can operate at its rated energy efficiency level.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

If your air ducts are dirty, dust and other pollutants can spread throughout your home. Other than air filters, which mainly protect internal HVAC components, indoor air quality equipment is usually installed at the return duct. This only protects the system from one location. Most of your ductwork is unprotected. 

Poor indoor air quality and reduced heating efficiency have a positive correlation. If the air in your home is dusty or otherwise contaminated, your heating system is likely inefficient. Duct cleaning can address both as dirt can accumulate anywhere in your ductwork.

Limit the Insulating Effect of Contaminants

Contamination inside air ducts can act as an insulator. This restricts your HVAC system’s ability to transfer heat. It may generate sufficient warm air, but dirty ducts make it difficult to distribute this air. Regular duct cleaning can help optimize heat transfer, maintaining your thermal comfort.

Keep Your Heating System Efficient for the Long Term

Air duct cleaning can reduce strain on HVAC components. Without the excessive wear on fans, motors, etc., the entire system can last longer. You not only benefit from consistently lower energy bills. Clean ducts also help save on repair costs and avoid early system replacement. Therefore, you can save thousands in operating costs over the life of your heating unit.

Make Your Home More Sustainable

Environmental sustainability is another consideration with heating and air duct cleaning. The cleaner your ducts, the more efficient your HVAC system is, and the fewer greenhouse gas emissions it produces. This has a positive effect on the environment. You can achieve cost-effective heating and help contribute to a greener future. 

Should I Have My Air Ducts Cleaned?

If your home isn’t warm enough, have your air ducts checked. Schedule a duct cleaning if you see excessive dust or your air ducts are filled with cobwebs, dirt, or debris. Moldy ducts can also cause inefficiencies and indoor air quality issues, so don’t hesitate to call for help. Fiberglass ducts tend to collect more debris than metal ones. If your ductwork consists of fiberglass elements, consider checking it more frequently.

How Often Should I Schedule Air Duct Cleaning?

Air duct cleaning isn’t included in most annual service plans. It’s also not recommended as often as HVAC maintenance. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends it every three to five years. However, depending on your home (its cleanliness, occupancy, and general environment), more frequent duct cleaning may benefit you.

Can Duct Cleaning Alone Improve Efficiency?

Numerous factors influence your heating system’s efficiency. Duct cleaning allows an HVAC technician to check for other issues. If necessary, they can recommend and perform duct sealing to prevent conditioned air from escaping the system so it doesn’t work as hard. Insulating air ducts, particularly those in attics, crawlspaces, and other unconditioned spaces, can protect against temperature fluctuations and regulate the environment in your home.

Therefore, improving efficiency is a multi-faceted process. But you must start somewhere.
There’s a strong connection between efficient heating and air duct cleaning, so don’t forget about your ductwork.

Schedule Duct Cleaning with Trio Heating & Air

Our experienced duct cleaning contractors help residential customers throughout the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Whether your HVAC system’s performance or efficiency has declined, your home was recently renovated, or your ducts have never been cleaned, our team is ready to get to work. They can also provide duct sealing and repair as needed. Additionally, we provide air purifier installation and other indoor air quality services and can help install, maintain, and repair your heating system.

For more information or to schedule service, contact us or call (415) 599-1579.

Insulation can keep your home comfortably cool in summer and warm in winter, but insulation installation services come at a cost. Many factors determine the expense. The insulation material, its location, and labor are just a few. However, the potential for energy savings can make the cost of insulating your home worthwhile.

Cost of Insulation Installation Services

According to Forbes, the average cost to install insulation in a 2,000-square-foot home is $3,000 to $10,000 (in 2024 dollars). Insulation generally costs $1.50 to $5.00 per square foot. If the project is done while your home is being built, the insulation installation cost is on the low end of the scale. 

That’s because the walls and ceilings of a home under construction aren’t finished. Insulating an existing home is more expensive because drywall and ceiling materials must be removed and repaired. Plus, old insulation must be removed, which can cost $1 to $3 per square foot. The size of the area to insulate is a major cost factor.

How the Cost of Insulation Can Pay for Itself

High-quality insulation can help lower your electricity bills. The difference in utility costs can make up for installation expenses, meaning you can recoup the cost over a few years. But exactly how much you save on energy depends on many variables. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs and 11% overall on energy costs with proper insulation and air sealing.

Factors that Determine the Cost of Insulation

When installing insulation in your home, its cost is determined by many variables. Here are some factors that a professional installer will consider when providing a price quote.

Insulating Material

A wide range of materials are used for residential insulation. Each has its advantages and disadvantages and is suited for use in specific areas or applications. The following are the most common materials, their cost per square foot, and uses plus their R-value (which reflects how well an insulator resists the movement of heat): 

• Fiberglass ($0.40 to $1.50): Fiberglass is among the most common materials used by insulation installation service companies. Available as batts, rolls, or loose-fill insulation, it’s a more affordable option and easy to install. The material is used during new construction and renovations. Batts and rolls have an R-value of about 2.5, depending on their thickness.
• Cellulose ($0.60 to $2.30): A loose-fill material, cellulose insulation is often blown into wall cavities. It’s sometimes available as a damp spray foam. Special equipment is needed to blow it into place, where the material settles and sticks together. Loose cellulose has an R-value of about 3.5 per inch of material.
• Polystyrene ($1.00 to $15.00): Polystyrene is available as foam board to cover a building exterior or can be placed under siding or roof shingles. Spray foam polystyrene can fill wall cavities or the space under attic floors. Extruded polystyrene tends to be more expensive than expanded polystyrene. Generally, polystyrene has an R-value of 3.2 to 3.8 per inch.
• Rockwool ($1.40 to $4): Spun into a fibrous material from recycled furnace slag, mineral wool insulation is more resistant to heat transfer than fiberglass. It contains a fair amount of silica, so safety precautions are required during installation. Rockwool has an R-value of about 3.4.
• Wood Fiber ($4.25 to $6.75): Wood fiber insulation consists of large, rigid boards. They are installed on flat surfaces to supplement existing insulation in ceilings or interior walls. The boards are made from recycled wood, so they are sustainable. An R-value of 3.8 makes wood fiber an efficient insulator that also dampens noise.
• Blue Jean Insulation ($1.50 to $1.75): Denim is an effective insulator and a great alternative to fiberglass batting. It’s also a safe DIY option, as it doesn’t have small glass particles. Made of recycled blue jeans, it can have an R-value of 5 or higher.

Type of Insulation

Aside from the material, the form of insulation affects its cost. The most common types of home insulation and their costs per square foot include the following:

• Batts and Rolls ($0.65 to $2.00): These are easy to install and fit between wall studs, rafters, and joists. They can be made of fiberglass, mineral wool, cotton, or plastic.
• Blown-In ($1.65 to $3.80): Blown-in insulation can be made of recycled cardboard, newspaper, fiberglass, or rock wool. A machine blows it into the space to be insulated, where it conforms to the area in which it’s applied.
• Foam Board ($2.40 to $3.75): Rigid foam board insulation is best for residential exterior applications. It’s most often used under siding but can also insulate basement floors. Accounting for thickness, it’s one of the most efficient insulators.
• Spray Foam ($3.15 to $7.50): Made of liquid polyurethane, this insulation is sprayed into wall cavities, where it expands and hardens into a solid foam. Closed-cell foam is thicker and more effective at trapping heat than open-cell foam (and more expensive). Both are well-suited for use in finished areas and hard-to-reach spaces.
• Radiant Barrier Insulation ($0.10 to $0.95): Radiant insulation reflects heat instead of absorbing it. This makes it suited for use as attic roof insulation. Although not the most expensive material, it can cost $30 to $80 per hour to install, according to Angi.

Location 

The cost of an insulation installation service also depends on the part of your home being insulated. A two-car garage, excluding the garage door, costs an average of $0.50 to $1.25 per square foot to insulate. Insulation is more often installed in a finished garage or if there’s a living space above it. Basements usually don’t require as much insulation and cost $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot to insulate. Wall insulation can cost from $1 to $4 per square foot.

However, other insulation installation projects require more extensive work. An attic, the most important area to insulate, needs twice as much insulation to counter the effects of rising heat. The average cost of an attic insulation installation service is $1,500 to $6,000. If you’re converting your attic into a living space, you may also want to insulate the roof, which costs $1,500 to $4,500.

Labor

The cost of labor depends on the insulation type, the equipment used, and the installation method. An installer also factors in the accessibility of areas to insulate. Labor is usually costlier with spray foam, which requires special equipment and protective gear. The labor cost for insulating a home can add from $0.25 to $2.50 per square foot, or anywhere from $40 to $80 per hour.

Site Prep

Site prep can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of the project. An insulation installation service may also require drywall to be demolished and repaired. Other aspects of site prep may include the following:

• Cover windows, doors, surfaces, and valuables
• Removal of old, moldy insulation/mold abatement
• Discarding old insulation and debris
• Verify walls are properly framed and enclosed
• Inspect electrical wiring for installation or repair issues

Air Sealing

If your home isn’t air sealed, conditioned air will escape and no amount of insulation will maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency. Therefore, check to see if parts of your home need air sealing before adding insulation. This can cost as little as $0.30 to $0.50 per square foot for a vapor barrier, about $6 per linear foot for caulk, or $7 for a 10-foot roll of weatherstripping. Some forms of air sealing are simple and affordable but can significantly improve efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know I Need New Insulation?

The signs you should consider replacing insulation in your home include the following:

• Uneven Temperatures: Gaps in insulation can mean heat is escaping (making a room colder) or getting through space so one area is warmer than another.
• Leaks/Condensation: Dripping water on a wall, water stains on walls or ceilings, or condensation on windows can mean moisture is seeping in due to poor insulation.
• High Energy Bills: If your utility costs have been increasing despite no change in energy usage, you may need new insulation to help your HVAC system run more efficiently.
• Drafts: Feeling drafts in parts of your home can mean that air is passing through gaps or missing insulation.
• Frozen Pipes: Poor insulation or a lack of insulation can leave parts of your home exposed to freezing temperatures, causing pipes to freeze and possibly burst.

What Are the Benefits of Insulation Installation Services?

Professional installation has many benefits. A qualified technician ensures the materials are properly installed and can take steps to avoid damage and protect your home. Improving home insulation can result in lower energy bills, more effective temperature control, and better soundproofing.

How Long Does It Take to Install Insulation?

An insulation installation service can take as little as two hours. However, larger projects can take as long as two days. Professional installers are equipped and trained to work more quickly than, for example, a DIYer or handyman.

How Long Can New Insulation Last?

Cellulose insulation is the least durable. It lasts 20 to 30 years but can start to deteriorate after about 15 years. Spray foam insulation lasts up to 30 years when installed under a roof deck; in most areas, it can last up to 80 years. However, fiberglass insulation can last up to 100 years but must be inspected every 15 to 20 years to ensure it’s code-compliant.

Do I Need a Professional to Install Insulation?

Certain types of insulation can be installed without a professional. For example, many homeowners can install batting and blown-in insulation (with the proper equipment and safety gear). However, foam board and spray insulation require professional expertise.

How much you can save is hard to estimate, as there are many cost factors. In many cases, it pays to hire a contractor; insulating a home can involve a lot of time and labor, especially if it requires access to hard-to-reach areas. Hiring a professional is often more convenient than paying for materials, tools, and equipment and doing your research and preparation. 

Contact Us for Insulation Installation Services

Trio Heating & Air installs home attic, crawl space, and other insulation per California’s latest requirements and recommendations. Our trained technicians also remove old, damaged insulation. They perform inspections as well to determine if your insulation needs to be replaced or if there’s any air leakage to fix. We’re committed to high-quality installation and meeting the highest standards of service. To request insulation installation services in Santa Clara County and San Mateo County, call (415) 223-1647 today. 

Air duct cleaning should be done on a routine basis. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends it every three to five years. While air ducts don’t need the annual maintenance ACs and furnaces do, contamination can affect your entire cooling and heating system. The dust and dirt you see at home may not be limited to visible surfaces. A professional air duct cleaning can eliminate contaminants to protect your health and HVAC system.

How Does Air Duct Cleaning Work?

You can remove and clean grills and covers and brush or vacuum inside vents close to them, but you can’t reach every part of your duct system. Your ductwork runs throughout your home, and much of it is in remote areas. A licensed HVAC professional can use various methods and equipment, including high-power vacuums, to perform duct cleaning. 

They may also treat duct surfaces to eliminate and prevent mold and bacterial growth. If your HVAC contractor doesn’t specify the product they’re using, ask what it is. The treatment should be a non-toxic, eco-friendly compound for a specific purpose. A type of sealant can also be sprayed into the duct system to coat and encapsulate surfaces, so fibers and other materials don’t escape and circulate in the air.

However, the primary steps an air duct cleaning service provider follows include:

• Access Ductwork: The contractor opens panels and access ports to inspect and clean the entire system.
• Check Ducts from the Outside: Air ducts are inspected on the outside for holes, rust, and other damage.
• Evaluate the Interior of Ductwork: A borescope is used to inspect long ducts; a camera transmits images to a screen.
• Vacuum Air Ducts: Depending on the duct system and how dirty it is, the technician can use a vacuum system that exhausts materials outside your home or high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum equipment.
• Brush Duct Surfaces Clean: Specialized brushes help dislodge and remove stubborn dust, particles, and other materials. If a duct is made of fiberglass or a metal duct is lined with fiberglass, soft-bristled brushes are used.

Throughout the process, carpeting, furniture, and household items are covered and protected. The contractor also seals and re-insulates any access holes they have made, so your newly cleaned ducts are airtight. In addition to air duct cleaning, they should also clean the return and supply air plenum, drain pan, coils, fans, registers, grills, and diffusers.

When Should I Have My Air Ducts Cleaned?

Some specialists say to have air ducts professionally cleaned every year or two. The NADCA says you can go up to five years between cleanings. Meanwhile, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stresses there are many sources of indoor air pollution. Cleaning, cooking, and movement around your home can release dust and particulates. Duct cleaning hasn’t been proven to eliminate dust and pollution and the health problems they can be associated with.

The EPA recommends air duct cleaning on an as-needed basis (we’ll soon discuss the signs you should consider scheduling service). It also urges the maintenance of fuel-burning appliances to limit indoor pollution and hazards such as carbon monoxide poisoning. Therefore, duct cleaning alone doesn’t improve HVAC efficiency, especially if heating equipment isn’t maintained and AC coils and fans aren’t cleaned.

Primary Benefits of Cleaning Your Ductwork

Although it’s not the only way to maintain your HVAC system, air duct cleaning can have substantial benefits, including:

• Indoor Air Quality Improvements: You spend most of your time indoors, where there are many sources of pollution. Cooking, smoking, and even cleaning (many household cleaning products have potentially harmful chemicals) contribute to indoor air quality issues. Pollutants from inside and outside can make their way into ductwork and circulate, the effects of which are most noticeable to people with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues.
• Prevent HVAC Repairs and Early Replacement: Dirty air ducts and HVAC components can force the system to work harder, accelerating wear and tear. Therefore, it may require frequent repairs and its lifespan may be reduced, costing you more than if you schedule routine maintenance and duct cleanings. 
• Save Money on Your Energy Bills: A lack of maintenance reduces energy efficiency. Dusty, dirty air ducts can cause your air conditioning system to run longer. Before this leads to a major repair, utility bills increase steadily, so you pay more for electricity each month, even if your utility company hasn’t increased rates. 

How Do I Know I Need an Air Duct Cleaning Service?

No official guidelines exist for determining when to have your ductwork cleaned. The best time to schedule service is in the spring or early fall. While the three- to five-year principle is fine in most cases, you should consider getting your air ducts cleaned more often if:

• Your home was recently renovated
• There’s nearby construction
• You live in a high-traffic area

However, there are a few signs you should schedule a professional air duct cleaning as soon as possible. These include:

• Excessive Dust: If air vents are covered in dust or debris, chances are the ducts are, too. Particles that don’t stick to duct walls when the system is on can blow throughout your home and recirculate in your HVAC system and rooms.
• Mold Growth: Like dust, mold near vents or ducts can easily spread deep into the system. Mold thrives in dark, damp areas. Inefficient ducts are an ideal location where it can grow unchecked, while mold can release spores and toxins that spread throughout your home.
• Infested Ducts: If you see, hear, or smell rodents or insects in your ductwork, call a professional. Pests will continue to proliferate if they remain undisturbed. Rodents are especially known for their ability to cause damage and may leave behind waste that spreads disease-causing germs.
• Allergies Are Worse At Home: Seasonal allergies are common. But if your allergies are worse when you’re indoors than when you go outside, the reason may be in your air ducts. Call a professional to evaluate your ductwork and perform a thorough air duct cleaning if necessary. It can help alleviate your allergy symptoms.
• You Have Pets: Pet hair and dander tend to go all over the place, including air ducts. More frequent duct cleaning can reduce the amount of pet dander. It can also reduce associated allergy symptoms and contribute to improved indoor air quality.
• You Don’t Know When the Ducts Were Last Cleaned: If you can’t remember when you last had an air duct cleaning, chances are it’s been several years. Call a professional if this is the case or you’re moving into a new home, especially if the previous owners aren’t sure if or when the ductwork was cleaned.

Can I Prevent Contamination In Between Duct Cleanings?

Preventative maintenance doesn’t eliminate the need for duct cleaning, but it can minimize contamination. The following tips can prevent your ductwork from becoming contaminated:

• Change your air filter every one to three months
• Use the highest-efficiency filter your AC manufacturer recommends
• Replace an air filter whenever it becomes clogged
• Seal any gaps around the filter holder
• Dust and vacuum your home regularly
• Make sure a maintenance technician cleans the coils and drain pan
• Seal off supply and return registers during a construction or renovation project
• Do not operate your HVAC system until contractors clean up all the dust

It’s also important to keep moisture out of ducts. It can cause mold and HVAC performance issues. To prevent moisture problems, promptly repair leaks or water damage, ensure the condensate drain pan and drain line are clear, and properly seal and insulate ducts.

Are Certain Duct Materials More Prone to Contamination?

Air ducts can become contaminated whether they contain bare sheet metal or insulation materials such as fiberglass. However, bare metal is easier to treat with an EPA-registered biocide if there’s microbial growth. It’s important to keep ducts clean and dry. Insulating materials are common because they can help improve temperature control, conserve energy, and reduce condensation. They also provide noise control and meet various building materials and fire protection standards.

Is Duct Cleaning a Good Way to Protect My Family’s Health?

Some materials that contaminate ducts can pose health risks. This doesn’t mean a light amount of dust in your duct system is going to get everyone sick. It’s not known what the threshold is for how much contamination is bad. Periodic duct cleaning can help, but you should also stay on schedule with yearly HVAC maintenance tasks such as system inspections and cleaning coils, drain pans, and filters.

How Much Does Air Duct Cleaning Cost?

Based on 2024 data by Angi, the average air duct cleaning cost is $380. However, the service can range from $150 to $795 depending on the size of your home, type of ducts, number of vents, accessibility, how contaminated the system is, and labor. Mold remediation, pest removal, duct sealing, and other services cost extra.

Schedule an Air Duct Cleaning with Trio Heating & Air

We provide a range of indoor air quality services in San Jose and the San Francisco Bay Area. Our licensed professionals provide thorough inspections and can employ various techniques to ensure your air ducts are clean. They also install different types and brands of whole-house air purifiers. To learn more or consult with our team about whether it’s time for an air duct cleaning in your home, call (415) 234-4728 today.

Even if you’re proactive with HVAC maintenance, ductwork may be the last thing you think about. That’s not how it should be; air ducts have a major impact on system performance and efficiency. While AC duct maintenance, such as duct cleaning, can improve these (and indoor air quality), there are many reasons to consider AC duct replacement. It’s not the cheapest home improvement project or the most fun, but it can resolve many issues.

The reasons you should consult with an HVAC contractor regarding duct replacement include:

1. Old Ductwork

Properly installed and cared-for air ducts should last 10 to 15 years. Over time, the seals, joints, and seams in your ductwork can deteriorate, reducing HVAC system performance and increasing energy usage. Some duct systems start to deteriorate sooner. The only way to address age-related issues is to invest in AC duct replacement. 

2. Indoor Air Quality Concerns

If there are gaps and holes in ducts, dust, allergens, mold, and other contaminants can fill the air you breathe. The effects can include increased allergies and asthma symptoms when you’re at home. Changing the air filter can provide relief; if it doesn’t, consider replacing ductwork to improve your indoor air quality.

3. High Energy Bills

If your energy bills are rising, and you haven’t used your HVAC system more (or have cut back to conserve and save), the reason may be in the air ducts. Leaky ducts let conditioned air escape. Or, ducts may be so dirty air cannot flow properly. Therefore, your AC will work harder to cool your home. A contractor can install new well-sealed ducts, so you save energy.

4. Poor Airflow

Reduced airflow can strain your HVAC system and prevent it from working effectively. This may be due to duct blockages or large air leaks. When air is not circulating in your home correctly or feels stale, it may be time to consider replacing ductwork.

5. Temperature Variations

Are some rooms too hot and others too cold? Leaks, gaps, and disconnections in ductwork can lead to temperature imbalances that never seem to go away. If ducts are in poor shape, they can prevent conditioned air from reaching parts of your home. By replacing air ducts, you can restore the temperature balance.

6. Noisy HVAC System

Air conditioning systems should perform quietly and air shouldn’t make noise as it travels through air ducts. Rattling, vibration noises, and other unusual sounds can mean your ductwork is clogged or damaged. Consult with a professional about repairing or replacing the system.

7. Damaged Ducts

In areas where your ductwork is accessible, look for signs of damage. Call a professional if you see dents, punctures, collapsed ducts, kinked lines, and other signs the system needs to be repaired or replaced. Holes in your ducts mean they’re not distributing air properly and are likely letting in warm air and pollutants.

8. Mold

Mold is a sign of widespread moisture problems and potential damage to your ductwork. Once mold starts growing, it can spread throughout the system and release spores into the air. These can trigger allergies and serious health issues. Professional duct cleaning is often not enough to address the problem.

9. Odors

Foul odors can be a sign of mold in the duct system. Also, holes in ducts can allow smells in from outside or even other parts of your home. If your living space has smoky, chemical, cooking, bathroom, and other smells, the ductwork should be the first place to look.

10. Home Renovation or Remodel

If you’re renovating or remodeling your home, it’s a good time to replace your air ducts. Changes to the floor plan and layout may require moving or reconfiguring them. Plus, including  AC duct replacement with your renovation avoids having to go through another disruptive project later.

11. Pests

Holes in air ducts are easy entryways for bugs and rodents. Pests can infest your home through ductwork and cause blockages in air ducts and HVAC units. They can also bring bacteria and disease-causing pathogens with them. The problem can often be solved with AC duct maintenance, but seriously damaged ductwork must be replaced.

12. Poor Design and Installation

Ductwork can be designed and installed in many ways. If it’s not configured and installed the way it should be for your home, your AC system won’t work efficiently. Replacing the duct system is the only way to eliminate hot and cold spots, efficiency problems, and indoor air quality issues related to poorly installed ducts.

Contact Trio Heating & Air for AC Duct Maintenance or Replacement

Our experienced HVAC professionals know how to maintain and replace ductwork. Homeowners in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area and surrounding areas rely on us for high-quality duct cleaning, sealing, and repair. We can also determine the best time to consider AC duct replacement. To schedule a consultation, book service online or call (415) 223-5615 today.