Education

How to Clean HVAC Air Ducts Yourself - And Should You?

MVPKansasCity
MVPKansasCity
4 min read

Are you trying to learn how to clean air ducts by yourself? Let's first discuss why you want to clean them and whether or not spending money on the equipment and supplies needed to accomplish the task is really worthwhile.

It does make sense that you would want to clean your ductwork if you give it some thought. You don't want your home air to be contaminated, and by doing it yourself, you can potentially save money. Additionally, wouldn't it make reasonable that the ducts would become dusty given that they are visible in so many various locations around your house? 

 

HVAC filters collect dust. Because of this, many individuals think cleaning them is unnecessary. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that duct cleaning "has never been proven to effectively prevent illnesses. Additionally, studies have not definitely shown that filthy air ducts cause an increase in particle (such as dust) levels in dwellings."

Furthermore, cleaning your air ducts improperly may actually worsen the situation. You risk displacing dust and introducing allergens into your house that weren't there before. Inexperienced people run the risk of harming themselves or, worse, permanently ruining their HVAC systems. The removal of mold makes the cleanup procedure more perilous for you personally than merely a liability for your house.

The following information can help you decide whether you need to clean your ducts. 


How can I tell whether I need to clean my air ducts?


The EPA does advise cleaning ducts on occasion, including when there is significant visible mold growth inside the HVAC system's components, when rats or insects are present, and when the ducts are so clogged with material that a significant amount of dust is entering your home through them.

You should probably call a specialist if you notice mold or mildew on the ducts or if you hear sounds originating from inside them. However, if you're just going on a hunch, we advise you to start by looking into your unit's vents, grilles, drip pans, and/or registers. Do you see any stains or a heavy dust? Do you notice any odd smells?

You should also consider if the airflow is uniform across your home's rooms. A buildup of dirt, dust, or mold may be to blame for obstructing the airflow in your home.

Is it worthwhile to clean your own air ducts?


It can be worthwhile to engage a professional to clean your ducts if you find or suspect mold development, mouse or insect infestation, dust entering your house through the ducts, or if you're concerned about constant airflow from room to room.

However, there is the issue of costs. Turning to the specialists may be quite expensive, so if there isn't really a need for it, you can find yourself paying money pointlessly. But if mold is indeed the problem, action must be taken.


How much does cleaning your air ducts cost?


Professional HVAC mold removal may cost anywhere between $600 and $2,000, according to a set of estimates from HomeAdvisor.com. This may be on top of the usual HVAC cleaning costs, which can range from $100 to $1,000. This is due to the fact that professional mold removal frequently requires specialized tools, chemicals, and extra effort on their side.

There are three possible payment methods: a fixed amount for all services and add-ons, a price "per vent," or a fee based on the total square footage of the ducts.

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