The Do's and Don'ts of Removing Cigarette Smells From Ductwork

Were the previous owners of your home smokers? If your new house still smells like their old smoke, take a look at what you need to know about HVAC systems, air ducts, and professional cleaning.

Don't Use Air Fresheners or Scented Candles

Even though air fresheners and other similar scented products can temporarily mask a smoky odor, they won't solve the problem. Over time, your home's HVAC system pulls indoor air pollutants (such as cigarette smoke) through the filter, ducts, and vents. This spreads the smoky smell into almost every area of your home.

A one-room air freshener plug-in, pod, or candle may cover the odor in a single space. But this seemingly simple solution won't stop your HVAC system from recycling the cigarette smell. Instead of covering the offensive odor, you need to remove the root cause. This requires a professional HVAC or air duct system cleaning service.

Do Schedule a Professional Service Immediately

While some of the smoky smell may fade, time won't completely eliminate the odor from your new home. There's no benefit to waiting to schedule a professional HVAC system or duct cleaning service.

As a ventilation system re-circulates the air in a smoker's home, sticky, brownish buildup may form on hard surfaces. This can turn white interior walls a yellow-ish hue or line ducts and vents. Even though buildup inside the ductwork isn't visible, the smell is something you'll notice - especially when you use the central air conditioner or heater.

If a do-it-yourself approach seems like a money-saving idea, think again. Without the right equipment, expertise, or experience, you may not fully clean the ducts. Any residue left behind in the ductwork will cause the odd odor to re-circulate throughout your new home. A professional duct cleaning contractor should have the ability to completely clear the ducts and remove the root of the smelly problem once and for all.

Don't Hire Just Anyone

A prompt professional duct cleaning service is a do. But this doesn't mean you should call the first so-called cleaning contractor you Google. To get the most from this type of HVAC maintenance, you need to hire a qualified company that employs knowledgeable technicians.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends getting three estimates before you choose one contractor. While price is an important factor for most homeowners, don't select an estimate based on cost alone. Look for a professional with plenty of experience in the HVAC industry. The technicians should have extensive experience in smoke buildup removal and general duct cleaning.

Not all HVAC contractors offer duct cleaning services. Avoid companies with little or no experience in duct inspections or maintenance. While some contractors may have extensive knowledge of heating, AC, and ventilation systems, they also need a high level of specialized expertise.

If you're not sure where to start your cleaning contractor search or how to find a qualified professional, start with those closest to you. Ask family members or friends if they have a recommendation. Co-workers and neighbors can also provide real-world references.

Do Continue Air Duct Maintenance

After you hire a qualified cleaning contractor and schedule the service, you'll have the clean, fresh-smelling ducts your home needs. But this doesn't mean your ventilation will stay in this pristine condition forever. Even though you may not smoke, pet fur, dust, and other indoor air pollutants can eventually clog the ducts again. 

Discuss the need for routine maintenance or repeat cleaning with the contractor. The professional can inspect the ducts, assess your home's needs, and recommend additional or future services. 

Do you need to clean your new home's air ducts? Contact Carolina Ductmasters for more information.