Consumer Traps & Tips # 48 - Duct Cleaning

For immediate release: October 26, 2009
Contact: Dennis Moore, 561-712-6600 • PBC Consumer Affairs Division

Trap

Linda suffers from allergies and wondered if duct cleaning would improve her health and increase the efficiency of her home air-conditioning system.  She saw a glossy advertisement offering whole-house duct cleaning service for just $99!  Sounding too good to be true, she decided she would get more information before calling the company.

Tips

Here are some tips to consider before hiring a duct cleaning company:

• According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA, http://www.epa.gov), there is no scientific evidence that duct cleaning improves air quality or prevents health problems. However, the EPA does recommend duct cleaning when mold is visible or the ducts are clogged with dust that can be released into your home.
• A license is required for contractors who provide duct cleaning services. Check with the Florida Dept. of Business & Professional Regulation (850-487-1395, http://www.myfloridalicense.com) or Palm Beach County Contractors Certification (561-233-5525, http://www.pbcgov.com/pzb/Contractors) to verify the contractor’s license status is active.
• Be wary of businesses that want to clean ducts without inspecting them first or offer services at a very low price without providing details as to what the price covers.  Are the workers experienced? A careless technician can damage your ducts. Ask for references, and get quotes from at least three licensed companies. If they pressure you into buying additional services, find another company.

Call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 888-852-7362 toll free) or visit http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer to see if other consumers have had complaints against the company you are considering.