HVAC Duct Cleaning: How To Do A Simple Cleaning Job Yourself

Posted on: 13 October 2015

Share

Your air conditioning ducts need to be cleaned at least once every few years. If your ducts are full of dirt and debris, that dirt and debris is going to be pumped through your house every time you turn on your air conditioning system. In order to protect your lungs from excess dust and in order to protect your house as well, you need to clean out your ducts. Here is how to quickly clean out your ducts yourself.

Turn Off Your Air Conditioning System & Put On Protective Gear

You don't want your air conditioning system to kick on while you are cleaning. Air and dust will get kicked up in your face if it comes on. However, dust might still get in your eyes and mouth during the cleaning process, so be sure to wear protection and a mask

Remove The Grates

Next, you'll need to remove the grates or covers that go over your vents. You may be able to simply pick up and remove some of the covers. Some of the covers may be screwed in place; if so, you'll want to put the screws inside of a plastic container or bag after you remove them while you clean so the screws don't get lost. 

Vacuum Your Vents

Attach the nozzle accessory to the hose of your vacuum. Then take the nozzle attachment and hose and stick it inside of your vents. You'll want to gently work the vacuum through your vents in order to remove the dust and debris. Start at the top of the vents, and carefully work your way around the entire vent. Do not get too aggressive with the vacuum cleaner. You don't want to damage or dent the vents. 

Clean The Grates

Before you put the grates back in place, you'll want to clean them as well. Use the brush or upholstery attachment on your vacuum to clean the front and the back of the grates. Then, spray them down with an all-purpose cleaner and wipe them off with a paper towel or use a cleaning wipe on both sides of your grates. 

Replace The Filter

When you clean out all the vents, you should also replace the filter that keeps dirt out in the first place. You can purchase a replacement filter at your local home improvement store or air conditioning supplier. 

This should get your vents pretty clean. However, you may want to hire a professional vent cleaning company to come in and get into the tricky corners of your vent system every couple of years. For more information, talk to an AC professional like Always Ready Repair.