What is the sound after air duct cleaning?

Author: Rosemarie Gerlach  |  Last update: Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Once the ductwork and furnace is cleaned, the HVAC system is able to run optimally. The result is a heating and cooling system that runs like new and exerts additional pressure on the ductwork. The popping sound homeowners hear is the ductwork accommodating the additional pressure.

How do I know if my air ducts were cleaned properly?

A proper air duct cleaning requires the technicians to cut a small hole in the ductwork near your furnace. After the cleaning is complete, the hole is closed and completely sealed. If no hole was cut in your ductwork, it's very likely your ducts are not clean.

What to expect after duct cleaning?

Expect to see a reduction in the need to dust. Expect that you will see a reduction in reactions to environmental allergies such as dust, dust mites, pollen, and similar allergens while inside the home. Expect less bacteria, dust, dust mites, and other debris to be circulated throughout your home via the duct system.

How noisy is duct cleaning?

Duct cleaning can produce moderate noise levels, akin to everyday household sounds like vacuuming. The noise level during duct cleaning typically ranges between 60 and 80 decibels (dB), which is not considered excessively loud or intrusive.

Is it normal for ductwork to make noise?

HVAC air ducts are frequently comprised of metal which makes them prone to causing noise with even the most minor disturbances. This ductwork noise can be a source of frustration for homeowners when it's constant or excessively loud.

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Why is there a loud sound coming from my vents?

A whistling or roaring sound from a supply air vent could mean the vent has either too much air flowing through it or the volume damper inside the vent is partially closed restricting the normal airflow. Homeowners often close vents in empty rooms so they don't spend money to heat or cool unoccupied space.

How do I know if I have bad ductwork?

But if you notice a bad odor once you turn on the system, there might be a problem with your ductwork. Similarly, a lot of dust in your house indicates that your ductwork is damaged and dirty. Broken ductwork plays a major role in restricting clean air from flowing throughout your home.

What is the sound after duct cleaning?

Once the ductwork and furnace is cleaned, the HVAC system is able to run optimally. The result is a heating and cooling system that runs like new and exerts additional pressure on the ductwork. The popping sound homeowners hear is the ductwork accommodating the additional pressure.

What are the drawbacks of duct cleaning?

Cons:
  • It's Not a Permanent Solution: Air duct cleaning is not a permanent solution to the problems in your ductwork. ...
  • It Can Be Expensive: Air duct cleaning can be expensive, especially if you have a large home with multiple ductwork systems. ...
  • It's a Mess: Air duct cleaning can be a messy process.

Should you leave the house during duct cleaning?

Yes, you can remain at home during professional duct cleaning service. However, you should be prepared for noise from the cleaning equipment, and you may need to avoid areas where cleaning is actively happening. Air duct cleaning involves cleaning the entire air duct system.

Is your house dusty after duct cleaning?

Provided the job's done right, duct cleaning should not blow dust into your living space, and there is no evidence to suggest that a professional duct cleaning is detrimental to your indoor air quality.

How long does a whole house duct cleaning take?

According to our expert air duct cleaning technicians, it takes three to five hours to properly clean your air duct system. This includes the return side, supply side, blower compartment, blower wheel, and return drop. The exact amount of time it takes to clean air ducts will depend on the size of your HVAC system.

Do I tip air duct cleaners?

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. You can also share referrals with friends and neighbors looking to have their air ducts cleaned.

Does cleaning air ducts really make a difference?

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.

What does duct cleaning cost?

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.

What are the symptoms of dirty air ducts?

If you are sneezing, coughing, or experiencing watery, itchy eyes that seem much worse than normal, your air ducts are probably dirty.

Is it a waste of money to have your air ducts cleaned?

It's absolutely not a waste of money, as long as it's not performed too frequently. Homeowners usually only need to consider air duct cleaning when visible signs of dust buildup are present, if they've noticed a change in respiratory or allergy symptoms, or if it's been several years since the last duct cleaning.

Does air duct cleaning make a house smell better?

Many home odors come from the air ducts. Mold, mildew, and bacteria in the ducts can make your home smell bad. Professional cleaners target these smells, getting rid of them for good. This means you can enjoy a home that smells fresh and clean.

Does having your ducts cleaned make a mess?

Does Air Duct Cleaning Make a Mess? Yes, if the heating and cooling systems sheet metal enclosures are not properly sealed during an air duct cleaning then particulate matter will escape into the home and surrounding areas.

How loud is duct cleaning?

When the vents are being cleaned, it will simply sound like a vacuum is running in your home. It will not be overly loud and should not disrupt your daily routine. When the vents are being cleaned, you can expect to have to turn off your heating or cooling unit.

What can go wrong with duct cleaning?

On the other hand, if a service provider fails to follow proper duct cleaning procedures, duct cleaning can cause indoor air problems. For example, an inadequate vacuum collection system can release more dust, dirt, and other contaminants than if you had left the ducts alone.

Why is there a weird sound coming from my vent?

A gentle humming or clicking is normal, but loud rattling, banging, buzzing, or whistling means you may have a problem requiring professional help. Some factors that cause excessively noisy ducts include dents or damage, loose metal parts, dirty or blocked vents, and closed dampers.

How often should ducts be cleaned?

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.

How much should it cost to replace ductwork?

Duct replacement costs typically range from around $20–$60 per linear foot, based on our team's market research. For example, if your home has 100 feet of ductwork, a complete replacement can cost between $2,000 and $6,000.

What is the life expectancy of ductwork?

Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years, and starts to deteriorate around year 15. If your ductwork is more than 15 years old, you may need to have the ductwork inspected to see if it is time to replace it. If it is older than 25 years, you almost certainly need to replace the ductwork.

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