Before hiring an air duct cleaning professional, it’s a good idea to declutter your grilles and vents. Air ducts can accumulate a lot of lint, dust and debris over time which gets blown into your HVAC system and circulated throughout the home. Removing items blocking grilles and vents will allow for a deeper, more effective clean.
Some common things people find clogging their grilles and vents include:
• Furniture –
Unfortunately, large furniture like couches, chairs and tables are often placed directly in front of air vents, blocking airflow and trapping dust. Move any heavy furniture at least a few feet away from vents when possible.
• Clothing –
Winter clothes, blankets, towels and other fabrics left draped over vents prevent proper airflow. Remove any clothing or fabrics covering or blocking air grilles and vents.
• Papers –
Stacks of papers, books, mail and magazines placed on or around vents get dust and debris caught between the pages or blow into the vents. Clear all papers and books away from air supply vents.
• Cords and cables –
Electrical cords, phone chargers, USB cables and more running over and around vents look messy and prevent optimal airflow. Use cord raceways or cord covers to keep cords off the floor and away from vents when possible.
• Toys –
Kids toys, stuffies, Legos and other play items left on the floor near vents get vacuumed into the air ducts during cleaning. Do a toy sweep around any vents to remove discarded or stray toys before cleaning.
• Dust and grime –
Built-up layers of dust, dirt, pet dander and allergens caking over and around air vents reduce airflow and get blown into the ductwork. Wipe down vent covers and the area directly in front of vents to remove as much dust as possible before cleaning.
• Plants –
While having some plants can naturally help filter indoor air and remove toxins, dense foliage completely covering vents prevents air movement and circulation. Prune or move plants away from grilles and supply vents so air can flow freely.
In summary, declutter your grilles and vents, you ensure the deepest, most comprehensive clean possible for your air ducts. A lower volume of built-up debris means less for the cleaner to remove from your HVAC system, filter equipment and air supply ductwork. Fresh, circulated air is the reward for completing this important prep step before professional air duct cleaning.