There is no set schedule that fits every home. The EPA recommends cleaning as needed, not routinely. You may see companies suggest every few years, but your home's condition is a better guide than the calendar.
What can make ducts dirty faster
- Remodeling or construction work
- Pets
- Air filters that are the wrong size or changed rarely
- Leaks in return ducts in the attic or crawl space
- Pests getting into the system
When to check
A good time to look is after a remodel, after moving into a home, after a pest problem or whenever you see debris coming from a vent.
How to keep them cleaner
- Use the right size filter and change it on schedule
- Cover vents and turn the system off during dusty work
- Fix water leaks and repair damaged ducts