AC ductwork is the tubing that allows cool air to move throughout your home. Your ducts may be fiberglass, flexible plastics or sheet metal. They have bends, corners and crevices that can collect dust, debris, pet dandruff, dirt and other airborne particles. Dirty ductwork makes your air conditioning work harder, causing it to operate less efficiently.
The solution for dirty ducts? Clean them!
With our handy guide, you can clean your own air conditioning ducts instead of hiring the pros. Whether you’re trying to save money on HVAC maintenance or just love a good DIY project, we can help you give your ductwork a clean sweep!
When Is Duct Cleaning Necessary?
Some HVAC companies will tell you that cleaning your AC ducts is unnecessary, but some significant issues require a good cleaning.
- Following home remodeling or renovations that generate dust
- Before installing a new AC system
- Extensive pest droppings and damage are found
- Mold growth (this requires an expert for testing and remediation; do not clean mold yourself)
- Ductwork is old and has leaks
- Routine maintenance has not been performed
- People in the home suffer from severe allergies
DIY AC Duct Cleaning Tips
Get ready to clean your air ducts with this helpful equipment list and step-by-step guide.
Tools You’ll Need to Clean Your Vents & Air Ducts
- High-powered shop vacuum (your standard household vac lacks the power to handle this job)
- Shop vacuum extension hose
- Protective gear such as goggles, gloves and mask or respirator
- New air filter to be installed when done
- Power drill or screwdriver to remove vent covers
- Stiff brush (a new toilet brush or dryer vent brush is ideal)
- Paper towels
- Flashlight
- Dish detergent and soft brush or sponge
- Microfiber cleaning cloths (when damp, they easily grab leftover dust from in and around your ducts and vents)
How to Clean Air Ducts Yourself Step-by-Step Guide
STEP 1 – Turn Your AC Off
Showdown the air conditioner at the thermostat or circuit breaker.
STEP 2 – Remove the Vents
Remove all the vent covers, supply grilles, and register covers using your drill or screwdriver.
STEP 3 – Clean Vent Covers & Grilles
Give all the covers and grilles a good wash with soap, water, and a soft brush or sponge. Set aside to dry.
STEP 4 – Loosen the Dust
Using a brush, loosen all the dust and debris within reach.
STEP 5 – Vacuum Your Ducts
Use your vacuum hose (with nozzle or brush attachments if you have them) to suck up all the debris you can reach. Wipe stuck on dust with a damp microfiber cloth.
STEP 6 – Change Your Air Filter
Once you’ve removed as much dust as possible, swap your old air filter with the new one.
STEP 7 – Replace Vent Covers
After all the grille, register and vent covers have dried thoroughly, put them back on.
STEP 8 – Power Up Your HVAC System
Turn your AC back to COOL or flip the circuit breaker to restore power.
How Often Does Ductwork Need to Be Cleaned?
In most cases, air conditioning ducts require cleaning on an “as-needed basis,” such as when changing out a system or performing extensive home repairs. Most AC companies recommend every 3 to 5 years in extreme climates like Florida or if you live in a dusty environment (dirt roads create indoor dust accumulation). If your HVAC system is properly sealed, air filters are changed regularly, and it’s professionally maintained, you can go longer between cleanings, but always check with a reliable AC technician.
When to Hire a Professional HVAC Company for Air Duct Cleaning
When it comes to maintaining a clean and efficient HVAC system, DIY duct cleaning can be a great way to tackle minor issues and improve air quality. However, there are times when a professional, whole-house air duct cleaning is warranted. If you notice persistent dust, mold growth, relentless allergy symptoms, or a decline in system performance, it’s time to call in the pros.
Hiring a professional HVAC company like First Degree Air Conditioning ensures that your ducts and cooling components are thoroughly cleaned using specialized equipment and proven techniques, providing a deeper clean and long-lasting results that you can rely on.
Is your evaporator coil bad? We’ll help you decide if repair or replacement is best for your situation!
