Regularly cleaning the vents and air ducts in your home can promote clean air and an overall healthier living environment. Yes, it is recommended to have them cleaned at least once a year by a professional cleaning service to ensure a thorough cleaning. However, if you know how to clean air ducts in the house yourself, you can save a great deal
of money while protecting your home from dirt, dust, and other pollutants.
Continue reading for a step-by-step guide on how to perform duct cleaning in your vents on your own.
Guide: How to Clean Air Ducts in House
Dirty ducts can lead to potential health hazards for those who suffer from respiratory health issues or asthma. Cleaning out your air ducts can remove all of those nasty allergens and pollutants from the air. This will ensure that everyone in your home is breathing clean air at all times!
- Cover the Supply Registers
Using a clean microfiber cloth or paper towels, cover the supply registers. This will prevent dust and other debris from spreading everywhere. Lift the grills, cover, and replace.
- Turn on the Fan
Making sure the heat is off, turn on the fan to loosen up the dust.
- Clean the Supply Registers
Clean the supply registers using a dust brush or vacuum cleaner. Lift up the register to remove dirt, dust, and other debris. To reach deep into the pipe system of the supply register, use a broom.
- Clean Out the Return Air Registers
Use a screwdriver to carefully remove the return air registers. Use a brush, broom, or vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt or dust inside the system. To reach the innermost parts of the cavity, you will need a dust brush with a long handle.
- Switch off the power to the HVAC System
Leave the fan on for a few minutes before fully disconnecting the power. This will prevent any injuries, as you will need to access the main ducts in order to clean them.
- Use a Screwdriver to Remove Air Duct Covers
Use a screwdriver to remove the grills and covers on the air duct. Use a clean cloth to remove the dirt from the grates. If it does not easily come off, use warm water and mild soap.
- Vacuum the Air Ducts
Using a vacuum cleaner with a long extension hose, thoroughly clean the air duct. You can rent or borrow a heavy-duty vacuum cleaner; this will help ensure that air ducts get the proper deep cleaning they need. Remove mold and mildew from the ductwork inside using a brush. Clean the interior of the ducts with a cloth.
- Clean Out the Blower Compartment
Making sure the power is still off, remove the panels on the front of the furnace to reach the return air boot. This is where the majority of the dirt will be, which can lead to clogs that can block the airflow. Remove any dirt, dust, and debris from the blower using utmost caution so as not to damage the fan.
- Replace the Furnace Filter
Dust buildup can cause your furnace to become clogged, which can lead to extensive and costly damage. A filter that is clogged or damaged will wreak havoc with your HVAC system in addition to restricting the airflow. Make it a point to replace the filter once you have given the vents and air ducts a proper cleaning. If you are unsure of the correct way to replace the furnace, you should contact your local cleaning company.
If you have any further questions on how to clear air ducts in-house, do not hesitate to contact the staff at Comfort Clean. In addition, you can schedule an appointment to have your air vents and ducts professionally cleaned. Call us today for a free estimate for duct cleaning or other cleaning services.
