When looking for a professional to clean your HVAC system, you might come across companies that proudly state they are certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA). But what does that really mean for you as a homeowner or business owner? Understanding what NADCA represents—and its limitations—can help you make an informed decision when choosing an air duct cleaning company.
What is NADCA Certification?
NADCA, short for the National Air Duct Cleaners Association, is a non-profit organization that sets the standards for HVAC system assessment, cleaning, and restoration. Established in 1989, NADCA’s goal is to promote source removal as the only acceptable method of cleaning HVAC systems, advocate for HVAC system hygiene, and ensure that members are knowledgeable in the field.
NADCA’s flagship guideline is the Assessment, Cleaning, and Restoration Standard—commonly referred to as the ACR 2021 Standard. This document is considered the gold standard in the HVAC cleaning and restoration industry. It provides guidelines for:
- Assessing HVAC Systems: Offers best practices for evaluating the condition of new and existing HVAC systems.
- Cleaning and Restoration: Defines the necessary steps to ensure HVAC systems are restored to an acceptable level of cleanliness.
- Preventing Job-Related Hazards: Advises on safety measures to prevent hazards during the cleaning process, including managing air flow and negative pressure for effective results.
- Maintaining Professional Competence: Ensures that those in the duct cleaning industry have up-to-date knowledge and skills.
- Adhering to Regulations: Helps users stay compliant with applicable federal, state, and local laws, supporting a commitment to indoor air quality and energy savings.
What Does it Take to Be a NADCA Member?
To become a NADCA member, companies must meet certain requirements. This includes having at least one Air Systems Cleaning Specialist (ASCS) on staff. The ASCS designation is earned by passing a written exam that demonstrates a thorough understanding of the ACR Standard, as well as a commitment to ongoing education in HVAC cleaning and air duct cleaning.
In addition to certification, member companies must pay annual dues and membership fees for each certified individual. While having an ASCS on staff is mandatory, it’s crucial to note that NADCA does not require this certified person to be the one performing the actual cleaning work. This leads to one of the potential pitfalls you should be aware of.
What Is NADCA Certification—And What It Isn’t
While NADCA membership and certification are indicators of a company’s commitment to industry best practices, it’s important to understand what the certification does not guarantee:
- Hands-on Experience: Certification alone does not ensure that the individual has hands-on experience. Often, the person certified is the owner or an office staff member who does not perform actual cleanings. This means the duct cleaner coming to your home may have limited knowledge of the ACR Standard.
- Adherence to the ACR Standard: NADCA does not actively verify that member companies are following the ACR Standard on every job. Passing the test and paying the dues is enough to maintain certification.
- Equipment Standards: NADCA does not endorse or set specific standards for the equipment used in duct cleaning services. This means that just because a company is NADCA-certified doesn’t guarantee they will use state-of-the-art or appropriate tools for your air duct cleaning project.
Key Questions to Ask When Hiring an HVAC Cleaning Company
So, what should you look for when hiring a cleaning company to clean your air ducts? Here are a few critical questions to ask:
- Is the Company Certified by NADCA?
Even though NADCA certification has its limitations, it still represents the best standard in the industry. If a company isn’t NADCA certified, they likely haven’t invested in the education and commitment to adhere to the ACR Standard and ensure highest quality practices in air duct cleaning. - Will the Technician on My Job Be ASCS Certified?
It’s important to know whether the person actually performing the work is certified, not just the company. Make sure the air duct cleaner is ASCS certified or, at the very least, is supervised by someone who is. - What Level of Clean Can I Expect?
A key point in the ACR Standard is that air ducts should be “visually clean” and, when wiped with a clean dry towel, there should be no residue left on the towel. Ask potential cleaning companies if they follow this guideline and what their process is for achieving it in your ventilation system. - What’s Included in the Quote?
Make sure you receive a detailed quote that specifies which components of your HVAC system will be cleaned. Be wary of companies that offer flat-rate pricing per vent or use vague terms like “whole house duct cleaning.” Such quotes often exclude important parts of your system, leading to incomplete work and potentially impacting air quality.
The Bottom Line
NADCA membership and certification are valuable indicators of a company’s knowledge and adherence to industry standards, but they are not the only factors you should consider. Be sure to ask detailed questions, confirm who will be working on your HVAC system, and understand what level of cleanliness you should expect. By doing so, you can ensure that you hire a cleaning company that will perform a thorough and effective job, leaving your HVAC system cleaner, safer, and more efficient—ensuring better air quality and potential energy savings for your home or business.
If you have any questions or would like to know more about how Bee’s Air Duct Cleaning adheres to NADCA’s standards for clean air, feel free to contact us at (303) 709-4923 or get a quote. We’re here to ensure your home’s indoor air quality is the best it can be!
