Cleaning Your Air Duct Can Be Hassle Free

Cleaning Your Air Duct Can Be Hassle Free

Indoor air ducts should be cleaned regularly. However, that’s usually not a top priority. I can make my house spotless and totally forget about those simple yet important things, such as air ducts. Air ducts are typically forgotten about when one begins their spring cleaning. However, if they are not cleaned regularly, they lose top performance and effectiveness.

Unclean air ducts are harmful to your health; they harbor bacteria, mold, viruses, allergens, and other yucky germs. Not only that, but the grime and dirt build-up that flows through those air ducts can damage items in your home such as clothing, furniture, and even your expensive electronics. So, let’s discuss the remedy to that situation so we don’t have to replace any couches or video gaming systems.

Here is a list of things you will need:

• A ladder or step-stool • A small bucket • A vacuum cleaner • Cleaning rags • Dish detergent or bleach • Flashlight • Paper towels • Mold killing solution • Spray bottle • Vinegar • Warm water

Step One: Fill the bucket with warm water and dish detergent or bleach. You can also use vinegar in a spray bottle. Vinegar is great for cleaning anything that is too sticky or dried on to scrub; it breaks up the spot and makes it easier to just wipe it away. I use it a lot when mopping floors. Have a mold removal spray handy, just in case. Gather up several rags and your vacuum cleaner, one with a hose attachment, and a flashlight. You will want to place all of these items close to you so you can reach them easily. Step Two: Let’s locate those air ducts. This sounds like an easy task but it really just depends on your home. Some homes have the vents located at the base of the walls, or they can be located high on the walls. Some homes might have them in unusual places as well so be sure to check around to find all of your air ducts. Once you have located all of your air ducts, be sure to move any furniture, rugs, or décor out of the way or cover the items so dust and other icky things do not land on them while you are cleaning. Step Three: Take off the cover of each air duct. Some slide off and others may have to be screwed or levered off. If you are unsure, I recommend checking out the manufacturer instructions.

Step Four: If your vent is up high, you will need to use a ladder, step-stool, or even a chair in order to reach your vent properly. Please make sure whatever you use is sturdy enough and will not wobble. Especially, if you are as clumsy as I am…. Step Five: Use your vacuum cleaner nozzle to remove loose dust and other particles that are in your vent corridor. You will defiantly want to wear a dust mask for this part. Step Six: Dip a rag into the warm water and detergent solution and wipe down the inside walls of the vent. If there is anything that is not coming up with the detergent and water, use the vinegar spray bottle. Now, use the flashlight to see if there are any remaining spots that you may have missed and also check for mold. If there is any mold present, use the mold killing solution. Please be very careful and read the instructions on the solution. Mold can be very harmful to your health. Use some paper towels to clean up any excess water and allow it to dry. Don’t forget to put the vent cover back on and move on to your next vent until all of them are nice and clean!

Some other helpful tips:

• To ensure great air quality and cleaner air, clean your vents every 3-4 months. I do it around the same time I change my air filters. • Always be aware that when cleaning your air ducts, there is a possibility that they could contain hazardous mold or allergens. If you are sensitive to these type things, you may want to get someone else to help you or call a professional. • If you do experience any difficulty breathing after cleaning an air duct, you may have had a reaction to some mold. You will want to get medical assistance immediately. • Know what to look for. Dirty air ducts can result in less cold air getting into your home and can increase moisture and humidity. It can also cause your air conditioning unit to run inefficiently. • Be sure to clean up around the area in which you cleaned your air duct and wash the clothes that you wore while cleaning as soon as you finish on your last duct.