DIY duct cleaning can be done about once a year. A simple, quick vacuuming behind
The simple answer is, you cannot clean it yourself. It require special tools as well as skills to cleat it. There are robots and special cleaning mechanisms for duct cleaning.
Getting into the ductwork of your home can be dangerous to you and your HVAC system. This process should only be handled by professionals. Expert cleaning companies have the knowledge and equipment to pull dust, debris and allergens from the entirety of your HVAC system.
You can just use a vacuum to clean the vent itself. Don't bother with cleaning the ductwork. There are countless companies that will charge you to do so, but the benefits are slim to none.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average cost for properly cleaning an entire air duct system in an average-sized home ranges from $450 to $1,000.
Duct cleaning has never been shown to actually prevent health problems. Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts. This is because much of the dirt in air ducts adheres to duct surfaces and does not necessarily enter the living space.
While a regular household vacuum can help with surface cleaning, it may not be powerful enough to thoroughly clean your air ducts. A shop vacuum with a long hose and specialized attachments is recommended for a more effective clean.
Experts advise having your air ducts cleaned every 2 to 3 years to prevent many maintenance and health problems before they start. However, homes with pets or children with allergies should have their air ducts professionally cleaned more frequently than the recommended average.
EPA does not recommend that the air ducts be cleaned routinely, but only as needed. EPA does, however, recommend that if you have a fuel burning furnace, stove or fireplace, they be inspected for proper functioning and serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.
Clean ducts ensure smoother airflow, reducing energy costs. Extended System Life: Regular cleaning minimizes wear and tear on your HVAC system, potentially saving you substantial money on future repairs or the need for early replacement.
You can vacuum an air conditioning system using or without a vacuum pump. However, most homeowners prefer using the vacuum pump because it makes cleaning easy. A vacuum pump can help remove moisture from your air conditioning system, allowing the AC unit to function effectively.
It is possible to install HVAC ductwork yourself, but it will require research and willingness to pay attention to detail. Be sure to educate yourself on the intricacies of the work so that you can be sure that you do not inhibit the airflow.
A regular microfiber cloth can also be slipped into the slats, guiding dust out with a gentle but firm hand. This method is a light touch that takes only minutes, perfect for quick maintenance.
Vacuum-clean the Ducts
Attach a hose and a brush extension to your vacuum cleaner. Insert the hose into the ducts and move around to reach as many parts of the duct as possible. This will help you suction up the dust and debris you previously loosened with the brush. Repeat the process with all ducts.
For residential properties, air duct cleaning costs typically range from $300 to $500. Commercial properties, due to their larger size and more complex HVAC systems, can expect to pay anywhere from $450 to $1,000 or more.
The offer price is most likely per vent pricing and does not factor in the cost of the entire cleaning. While it may seem like a money-saving deal, the final price tag will probably be closer to that $450-$1000 range.
They are powerful tools that can generate a significant amount of force, which can damage the ducts or dislodge connections if not used properly. Additionally, leaf blowers are not equipped with the necessary attachments or filters to effectively remove dust and debris from ductwork.
Vacuum the Vent
Insert the vacuum into the vent and remove any leftover lint or dust. Vacuum up the lint from the duct and inside the dryer as well. Go to the exterior vent outside your home and vacuum it. (If your vacuum is for in-home use only, skip this step and just clean with the brush.)
How Often Should Air Ducts Be Cleaned? Air ducts, like any other HVAC system, require regular cleaning to ensure maximum efficiency. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends air duct cleaning every three to five years.
First and foremost, you should clear away any obstructions in or around your ducts that might make it difficult for us to access them. This includes things like moving furniture away from vents, removing any items stored near the registers themselves, and more.
It's not necessary to tip your air duct cleaner. You can show appreciation in other ways, like offering a cold bottled water. If you're happy with the job, leaving a positive online review for the company is always nice.