Q: What should I do if I think I’ve been scammed by an air duct cleaning company?

• <div><p>Unfortunately, you probably don&rsquo;t have much legal recourse if you think you&rsquo;ve been scammed by an air duct cleaning company, but there are some actions you can take. Your first order of business should be to report the issue to the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Your complaint will show up to other customers doing research and, ideally, prevent the scammer from getting to other homeowners. You can also leave a negative review on online review sites. If you got scammed out of a large amount of money, you may want to seek legal counsel for advice.</p></div>

Question 1

Can I clean my ducts instead of replacing them?

Accepted Answer

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If your ducts are relatively free from significant damage, mold, or excessive debris, the benefit of air duct cleaning is that it can address many common issues. Dust, allergens, and particles can accumulate in your ducts, affecting air quality and the efficiency of your HVAC system. Cleaning your ducts can help you restore optimal airflow and remove pollutants that might be circulating in your home.

However, cleaning might not be the best solution if your ducts have severe damage, leaks, or are significantly outdated. In these cases, replacement might be necessary to ensure proper functioning and prevent future problems.

Question 2

How do I know if my air ducts need to be cleaned?

Accepted Answer

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Signs that your air ducts need cleaning include visible dust buildup on or blowing from your vents, dirty vent covers, and signs of mold or mildew near vents or inside the ducts. You might also notice a musty or stale odor when your HVAC system is running. Performance issues like weak or reduced airflow, noisy air ducts, frequently clogged air filters, and abnormally high energy bills are also key indicators. Furthermore, if you notice an increase in allergy symptoms or the presence of rodents or insects in your home, it’s time to call an HVAC professional for an inspection and cleaning to improve your home's air quality and system efficiency.

Question 3

What should I do if I think I’ve been scammed by an air duct cleaning company?

Accepted Answer

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Unfortunately, you probably don’t have much legal recourse if you think you’ve been scammed by an air duct cleaning company, but there are some actions you can take. Your first order of business should be to report the issue to the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Your complaint will show up to other customers doing research and, ideally, prevent the scammer from getting to other homeowners. You can also leave a negative review on online review sites. If you got scammed out of a large amount of money, you may want to seek legal counsel for advice.

Question 4

What size ducts are used in residential homes?

Accepted Answer

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The most common duct sizes used in residential homes are round ducts 6 to 12 inches in diameter. This size is small enough to be easily installed into walls and ceilings, yet is wide enough to allow for adequate airflow through the home. Improper duct sizing can cause HVAC issues, increased energy bills, and a drop in HVAC efficiency, which translates into a less comfortable home.

Question 5

Who sets the guidelines for air changes per hour?

Accepted Answer

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The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers, or ASHRAE, sets the standard guidelines for air changes per hour in homes and businesses. The International Residential Code, or IRC, also sets ACH requirements for residences and bases those requirements off of ASHRAE standards plus climate specifics related to your location.