24/7 Emergency Service (314) 471-7625

Top 10 Signs You Need Duct Cleaning in Your St. Louis Home

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Is the Air in Your Home Making You Sick? Dirty ducts may be to blame. Here are 10 signs it’s time for a professional duct cleaning.

Most St. Louis homeowners don’t think about their air ducts until something feels off. Dusty vents? Allergy flare-ups? Musty smells? Your ducts may be the silent culprit behind poor indoor air quality and uneven comfort.

Call (314) 471-7625 or book your duct inspection online today.

jay70001
1 week ago
0 stars if I could. Bought a faulty (not to mention overpriced) surface igniter, called back five minutes later after installing, of course they didn’t stand behind their part. Go to Grainger instead. Same (working) part, half the price.
Response from the owner:Hi there. I am unable to locate your customer profile. Please give our office a call at 314-471-7625 so we can get this figured out for you.
Katherine T.
1 week ago
Always a great experience. Was able to get out same day to help, knowledgeable of old homes, including their systems and new systems as well.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review, Katherine! We appreciate your business.
Frank P.
1 week ago
From the phone to the completion of the job everyone is so polite and informative. I had Giovani as our representative and he was very informative and professional, and knew exactly what the problem was. Thanks so much.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind review, Frank! We appreciate you and your business.
April T.
1 week ago
My furnace was not working. A very nice gentleman came out this morning and fixed the problem and now I have much needed heat. He was very professional and courteous. I will definitely be using them again when the need arises.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the positive feedback! We're glad to hear that you were pleased with our prompt and friendly service. We look forward to assisting you again in the future!
Kathleen D.
2 weeks ago
Ryan was very professional, knowledgeable, and thorough. I was able to get an appointment the same day during a biter, snowy day.
Response from the owner:We are so glad to hear you had a pleasant experience, Kathleen!
Melinda D.
2 weeks ago
I will always call Hoffmans for my air and heat needs. They were out to my daughters house that day and fixed it. It was right before the weekend storm with below zero temps the next day. They saved my daughter and grandbabies. I could never thank them more.
Response from the owner:We are so happy to hear that we could help! Thank you for the kind review.
Scott S.
2 weeks ago
Snow and drifting snow covered intake and out take vents causing the furnace emergency to shut off furnace. Cleaned off the driftibg/ snow off roof and vents furnace works perfect now. Thank you and great job Nick.
Response from the owner:Thanks for the great review, Scott! We appreciate your support.
Jessica B.
3 weeks ago
Came during a storm with emergency call for heat- did a quick and fast job getting furnace running! Whoot!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, Jessica! We appreciate your support.
Jennifer H.
3 weeks ago
5 stars! Nick was here to fix my heater within 2 hours of my call. He explained the problem to me thoroughly and got the job done quickly & professionally. Thank you so much!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind review, Jennifer! Glad we could help.
Matthew B.
3 weeks ago
Extremely thorough and educational. They do a wonderful job of explaining everything and making sure I was comfortable knowing how the systems worked in my house!
Response from the owner:Thanks for the great review, Matthew! We appreciate your support.
Joe C.
3 weeks ago
Nick did an amazing job, on time, very knowledge and professional.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, Joe. We look forward to servicing you in the future!
anna M.
3 weeks ago
installed humidifier and hepa filter. Very pleased with service.
Response from the owner:We are happy to hear that you had a pleasant experience!
Abby C.
3 weeks ago
I noticed a strange noise that I was concerned was linked to my furnace. I called Thomas Hoffman Heating & Cooling and Nick came right out. He was very thorough checking all components. Thankfully all checked out for us this visit. Definitely recommend Thomas Hoffman Heating & Cooling!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the kind review, Abby! We appreciate your business and look forward to servicing you in the future.
DA O.
3 weeks ago
I would describe the overall experience as professional, but also kind and responsive from the initial phone call to the technician.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review! We appreciate your business and look forward to helping you in the future.
Christine G.
4 weeks ago
Thomas Hoffman is a wonderful company to work with. Techs are knowledgeable, personable & efficient.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Christine, for your kind words about our team; we appreciate your feedback and are glad to hear you had a positive experience!
Breanna H.
4 weeks ago
Nick was amazing. He came out the same day and had our heater fixed quickly
Response from the owner:We are so happy to hear you had a pleasant experience with us!
Dawn B.
4 weeks ago
Hoffman plumbing came out to help with some of my plumbing problems. They were amazing. I wish I would have called them first
Irene A.
4 weeks ago
Nick did a great job!
Response from the owner:We're happy to hear you had a positive experience!
j. R.
1 month ago
Got a quote over the phone. Everything was explained thoroughly. Dakota, my technician arrived and on time, was very professional and knowledgeable. He didn’t try to upsell or change anything. He did a great job. We can already tell the difference since the ducts and vents were cleaned. Would recommend an use Hoffman again in the future.
Response from the owner:Happy to hear you had a pleasant experience using Thomas Hoffmann!
Craig M.
1 month ago
The technician, Ryan, was knowledgeable and helpful in identifying the issue with our mini split AC unit. They are the second company we called after issues with the first and will be using Hoffmann again.
Response from the owner:We are so happy to hear your experience with Thomas Hoffmann was pleasant. Thank you for your kind review, & we look forward to working with you in the future!
Jim S.
1 month ago
woke up to a very cold house, called Thomas Hoffmann, they were able to come out a couple of hours later and get the issue resolved. Always trust them, they have always been quick to respond and get either the heating or ac issue fixed that day. Also a great price!!!! give them 10 stars if i could, Thank You JS
Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind review, Jim. We are happy to hear that you had a positive experience working with Thomas Hoffmann!
Hank K.
1 month ago
Fast, friendly, professional service.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Hank, for your wonderful feedback; we're glad you enjoyed the fast, friendly, and professional service, and we'll be sure to keep up the great work!
sampaul R.
2 months ago
The technician Giovanni was excellent and on time very professional and efficient and knowledgeable of the project at hand ,gave great advice but most of all did great work 👏 thank you .
Response from the owner:We are so happy to hear you had a great experience, Sam! Thank you for the review, and thank you for your business.
Ann R.
2 months ago
Nick was friendly, professional and knowledgeable, he did an awesome job!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing Nick's friendliness, professionalism, and knowledge - we're glad you had an awesome experience!
Maureen O.
2 months ago
Notified me of expected arrival time and then again when he was on his way and was exactly on time! Nick was very personable and trustworthy.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Maureen. We're glad to hear that Nick kept you informed and made your experience enjoyable!
Christina G.
2 months ago
Very fast service, Nice young man, and personable!
Response from the owner:Thanks for the great review, Christina! We appreciate your kind words and your business.
Cool Brook I.
2 months ago
Your service technician was very professional and knowledgeable. And did not appear to try to give me bogus information. I truly appreciate his honesty because several other companies did not appear to be honest, obviously wasn’t honest, my gut feeling told me they were not honest and tried to get me to spend $10,000 for a problem that was much simpler to fix. I look forward to you servicing all my properties, and possibly those of the rest of my family.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the kind words and great review! We appreciate your support.
Lianne R.
2 months ago
Very prompt, communication was great, and the workers were very polite. I highly recommend them!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Lianne! We're glad to hear that you had a positive experience with our team and appreciate your high recommendation.
Jaden S.
2 months ago
Jeff did an outstanding job. Assessed the situation, found the problem, and fixed it within the hour. Thank you!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Jaden! We're glad to hear that we provided such prompt and effective service. Your appreciation means a lot to us!
Leticia
2 months ago
Water heater repaired, appointment done the same day, effective, courteous
Response from the owner:Thank you, Leticia! We appreciate your kind words and are glad to hear that the water heater was repaired promptly and effectively. Your satisfaction means a lot to us!
Mr T.
2 months ago
The service tech Giovanni did a fantastic job. Our gas fireplace is working like new again so we’re ready for the cold weather!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Mr, for your fantastic review! We're glad to hear Giovanni provided you with excellent service and professionalism. Your recommendation means a lot to us!
Jeff C.
2 months ago
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If I could give 10 stars, I absolutely would.

Last night our furnace went out unexpectedly, and with three kids in the house, the temperature dropped fast. Giovanni went above and beyond in every way possible. Instead of charging me a late-night service fee, he simply asked, “Are you decently handy?” and offered to walk me through some troubleshooting steps to get our heat back on so my children wouldn’t have to sleep in the cold.

Not only did he guide me through the process, he even FaceTimed me and showed me exactly what to take apart, how to put it back together, and what signals to watch for. It felt like having a real technician standing right next to me the entire time. Thanks to him, our heat was restored within minutes.

In a world where true customer service is hard to come by, Giovanni is a rare find. It is a guaranteed fact that any future repairs, maintenance, and the new heater/AC system we’ll be needing this coming summer/fall will absolutely be done through him. His honesty, kindness, and expertise have earned our business for life.

Highly, highly recommend.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Jeff, for sharing your experience! We're so glad to hear Giovanni was able to help you and your family during that tough situation. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we appreciate your trust in our services for the future!
Mary C.
2 months ago
My neighbor referred these guys to me when had water heater problem. Previous company told me I needed to replace it. Tom’s technician fixed it for less than $200. This was over 2 years ago and have been using their service ever since. They are very trustworthy.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Mary, for sharing your experience and for trusting us with your water heater issue; we're glad our technician could help and that you've continued to rely on our services!
James H.
2 months ago
Came out immediately after a time slot opened and fixed the AC issue.
Response from the owner:Thank you, James, for your kind words! We're glad we could address your AC issue promptly.
LC S.
2 months ago
Speedy response and service. Knowledgeable professional. Kind, courteous, friendly but professional.
Response from the owner:Thanks for the great review! We appreciate your business and look forward to working with you in the future.
Hector R.
3 months ago
Super Helpful and Honest Service

I called this company earlier today because I was having a bunch of issues with my HVAC system. They were incredibly friendly and walked me through troubleshooting step by step over the phone. They didn’t even charge me for the call. Thanks to their honest advice, I was able to get things running smoothly again. Really grateful for their help and would definitely recommend them if you want straightforward and trustworthy service. Five stars all the way!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the glowing review, Hector! We appreciate your business and look forward to working with you in the future.
Pat Keith T.
3 months ago
Nick did not set current time. — Monday Hoffmans Zach came to fix correct time. We DID NOT want a timed thermostat — we prefer to set temperatures manually
Response from the owner:Thank you, Pat, for your kind words about Giovanni; we appreciate your feedback and are glad to hear that he made a positive impression.
Margaret K.
3 months ago
Clear communication about arrival, service and costs.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Margaret, for your kind words! We appreciate your feedback on our clear communication and are glad you had a positive experience.
Laura B.
3 months ago
Excellent experience.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Laura, for your 5-star review! We appreciate your support.
Judy T.
3 months ago
I will highly recommend this business for your air and heater repair. Prompt, knowledgeable and courteous service.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Judy, for your kind words and recommendation! We're glad to hear you were pleased with our prompt and courteous service.

Why Duct Cleaning Matters

Your duct system is like your home’s respiratory system. Over time, it collects dust, allergens, pet hair, mold spores, and even pests. That buildup doesn’t just sit there—it circulates through your living space every time your HVAC system runs.

Regular duct cleaning can:

The Top 10 Signs You Need Duct Cleaning in Your St. Louis Home

1. Dusty Vents and Registers

Do you see gray or black dust on the vent covers, especially shortly after cleaning?

This is a telltale sign that your ducts are recirculating dust and debris.

2. Musty or Moldy Odors

Notice a strange odor when your HVAC system turns on?

Mold or mildew could grow inside your ductwork, especially if you’ve had any past leaks, humidity issues, or live in an older St. Louis home.

3. Visible Mold Inside Ducts or Around Vents

Mold is more than a smell — it’s a serious health risk, especially for those with asthma or weakened immune systems.

If you see mold near vents, it’s likely deeper in the system too.

4. Unexplained Allergy or Asthma Flare-Ups

Dirty ducts can trigger sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, or respiratory issues that get worse indoors.

Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores may circulate in your air.

5. Inconsistent Airflow in Different Rooms

Are some rooms stuffy while others feel fine?

Blockages or excessive buildup in your ducts can restrict airflow and disrupt your HVAC system’s balance.

6. Pest Infestations

Have you seen signs of rodents or insects? Ductwork makes a cozy home, leaving droppings, fur, and bacteria behind.

A cleaning removes the debris and the bacteria they leave behind.

7. You’ve Recently Renovated or Remodeled

If proper containment isn’t used, construction dust, sawdust, and drywall particles are in your duct system.

After a remodel, duct cleaning is a must for healthy air.

8. Your HVAC System is Working Harder Than Usual

Dirty ducts make your HVAC system work overtime.

If your energy bills are climbing or your system seems less effective, a buildup may be choking the airflow.

9. Unpleasant Odors You Can’t Track Down

Pet smells, smoke, and cooking residue can linger in your ducts for months or years.

Duct cleaning can eliminate these hidden sources of foul odors.

10. It’s Been 5+ Years Since Your Last Duct Cleaning

Even without visible issues, ducts accumulate significant buildup over time.

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning every 3–5 years, especially in homes with pets or allergy sufferers.

Why St. Louis Homes Need Duct Cleaning More Than You Think

Missouri’s climate means homes endure humid summers, dry winters, and high pollen seasons. That combination can be brutal on your ducts. Older homes in areas like Webster Groves, Kirkwood, Maplewood, and Frontenac often have decades of dust and allergens lingering in aging duct systems.

Is Duct Cleaning Worth It?

Yes — when done right. It’s an investment in:

  • Cleaner air
  • Longer HVAC system life
  • Fewer allergy triggers
  • Lower energy bills

Should You Clean or Replace Your Ducts?

Sometimes cleaning isn’t enough. If your ducts are severely damaged, corroded, or improperly installed, a replacement might be better. We’ll help you decide what makes sense for your home and budget.

Breathe Cleaner. Live Better.

Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating is locally owned and trusted throughout St. Louis. We’re not a national chain with a 1-800 number—we’re your neighbors.

Serving Ballwin, St. Charles, Chesterfield, St. Louis, O’Fallon, and beyond, we offer honest duct cleaning you can trust.

What to Expect From a Professional Duct Cleaning

At Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating, we follow a thorough multi-step process:

  • Full system inspection
  • High-powered vacuuming with HEPA filtration
  • Mechanical agitation to dislodge stubborn buildup
  • Sanitization (optional but recommended for homes with mold or pests)
  • Filter replacement and final system test
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