What's the best way to clean heating ducts?
The best way is to hire a professional, as they have specialized equipment for a deep clean. Experienced furnace duct cleaners use high-powered vacuums and rotary brushes to remove built-up dust, debris, and allergens from your entire system. This process is more thorough than what you can typically achieve with a DIY approach.
How often should I have my heating ducts cleaned?
Most experts recommend hiring heating duct cleaners every three to five years. You may want to have your ducts cleaned more frequently if you have pets or family members with allergies, or if you've just renovated your home. It's also a good idea if you see dust puffing out of your vents when the system turns on.
How long does it take to clean heating ducts?
Typically, it will take two to four hours for a pro to clean your heating ducts. A few things can affect this timeline, like:
The size of your home and the total length of the ductwork.
Any complex layouts or hard-to-access ducts.
The amount of dust, debris, or mold buildup.
The number of supply and return vents that need to be cleaned individually.
Add-ons for related services, such as a full furnace duct cleaning.
Remember: The timeline for your project may vary, so always ask your pro to provide an estimate.
What should I find out before hiring heating duct cleaners?
Before hiring heating duct cleaners, be sure to ask:
Are you certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA)?
Do you have a business license and liability insurance?
What cleaning methods and equipment do you use?
What's included in your service? Ask if it covers just the ductwork or if it also includes other parts of the HVAC system, as some furnace duct cleaners will service the blower motor and coils, too.
How is your pricing structured, and can you provide an itemized quote?
How long will the cleaning process take for a home of my size?
How will you protect my home from dust and debris?
What should I do before a pro arrives to clean my heating ducts?
Before you get your heating ducts cleaned, take these steps for a safer and more efficient appointment:
Step 1: Clear the area around all your vents and registers. For easy access, move any furniture, rugs, or other items that are in the way.
Step 2: Keep your pets in a separate, secure room until the job is done.
Step 3: Plan for some noise during the appointment. The equipment used for duct cleaning is powerful and loud, so you may want to schedule important calls or a child's naptime for afterward.
Step 4: Turn off your HVAC system before the pro arrives.
Step 5: Let them know about specific issues you've noticed. Point out any rooms with poor airflow, vents making odd noises, or unusual smells.