Is Duct Cleaning a Waste of Money?

Cleaning an air duct will save you money. According to Natural Resources Canada, HVAC systems account for a substantial portion of a building’s total energy use, and when ductwork is obstructed by debris, energy consumption—and utility bills—can rise significantly. Efficient airflow helps HVAC systems operate optimally, lowering operating costs.

Not only will less cooled or heated air actually make it to your living space, but the HVAC systems will have to work harder than ever. You’ll have the thermostat set to extremes just to get the temperature you want. And that means your heating and cooling system is going to wear out quicker than it normally would. As anyone who has ever replaced an air conditioner or a furnace will know, it’s not a cheap replacement.

Is Duct Cleaning Mandatory in Ontario?

There is no law mandating that duct cleaning is performed in Ontario. However, it is considered a good practice, even if we’re ignoring the financial benefits of cleaning your ducts, because the indoor air quality is so much better when you have clean ducts.

Things that lurk in your ducts include mold, dirt, dust, insects (dead and alive), and other spores and biological contaminants. This leads to indoor air pollution.

So, while it’s not mandatory in Ontario, it is strongly recommended for the health of you and your family. And it’s not something you can solve with a household vacuum cleaner. Plus, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends it.

What Time of the Year Is Best for Duct Cleaning?

Homeowners should have their air vents cleaned every three to five years—but that’s generally speaking. If you live in a particularly dusty area, then you would want to get them cleaned more often. The same goes for insects and mice. If you have pests as a problem in your home or business facility, then you should get your ducts cleaned more often.

Also, if anyone in the home is having allergy problems that seem greater than usual (or if you have a person in your home who is always susceptible to allergies) then getting the ducts cleaned more often, even every year, is important.

How Do I Know if My Ducts Need Cleaning?

Here are some of the signs that your ducts need to be cleaned:

  • If your home was recently constructed, the ducts could easily have dust, debris, and even sawdust in them. The dust that comes from sanding plaster and drywall is also a culprit. All of these things can build up in the ducts and then come blowing down on a nice clean brand new house.

  • Your energy bills are rising. If your energy bills are going up at a rate that is faster than usual, it could mean that your HVAC system is having to work harder than normal to maintain proper temperatures. It’s bad for energy efficiency. Time to clean out the ducts.

  • Bad odors are a sign that you’ve got mold, mildew, or even rodents and pests in your ducts. If you’ve got strange smells coming out of your ducts, get them cleaned.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you’re still unsure whether duct cleaning is worth it for your home or business, these quick answers address some of the most common concerns people have about the process, its benefits, and how often it should be done.

The effect varies, but improved airflow from clean ducts can lower operational costs, especially if obstructions were previously significant.

Yes, removing dust, mold spores, and other contaminants from ducts can help reduce airborne irritants, supporting better health.
No. Sealing (airtightness) targets energy loss and leakage, while cleaning removes physical debris—both are complementary but distinct services.
Ask for evidence that cleaning is needed, seek reputable providers—such as NADCA-certified professionals—and get multiple quotes before proceeding.
When done properly by professionals using the right tools and methods, duct cleaning is safe. It can even extend system lifespan by reducing strain.
Whether you’re concerned about energy efficiency, indoor air quality, or extending the life of your HVAC system, our team at Climate Works can help. From thorough duct cleaning to complete HVAC maintenance, we’ll ensure your home stays comfortable year-round. Get in touch today to book your service.

Contact Us

Ottawa (Headquarters)
2639 Pollock Rd.
Richmond, ON, K0A 2Z0
info@climateworks.ca | 613-838-9989

Toronto & GTA
1883 Mattawa Ave.
Mississauga, ON, L4X 1K8
gtaestimating@climateworks.ca | 437-317-0699

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