How to Clean your Air Conditioning Vents

Ah, allergies… How those who suffer the fate of a stuffy nose, itchy eyes and headaches will do anything to prevent them. One thing that can help these sensitive breathers is to clean your air conditioning vents.

Cleaning your air ducts means having cleaner air flowing through your home. Vacuuming out the loose dirt and debris will decrease the wear and tear on your AC components, which can also increase the lifespan of your system. It is recommended that you have a professional clean your air conditioning vents to ensure it is done properly, and that there is no accidental damage is done to the ducts, which can result in expensive repairs. But if you’re feeling ambitious and would like to do it yourself, here’s how:

• First, you’ll need some tools. For best results, you’ll need a heavy-duty vacuum with a long hose and attachments to reach all the little nooks in your vents. If you don’t own one, local hardware stores may rent them. You’ll also need a screwdriver to remove the screws to allow access into your vent, a long-handled dust brush with stiff bristles, and paper towels or cleaning cloths.

• Before you begin cleaning, you’ll want to cover the supply registers to prevent stirred up dust from going all over your home. Simply lift the return and supply register vents and cover the vent opening with a cleaning cloth or paper towel and then replace them to hold the towels in place. Before replacing the vents, give them a thorough dusting to remove debris. If they are really dirty, use warm water and soap to wash them. Some vents require a screwdriver for removal.

• For your safety, turn off the power to the heating and air conditioning system. Now you can use your brush to scrub along the air duct walls to loosen dirt and dust. Utilize your long-handled brush to reach farther into the vents.

• Now it’s time to vacuum using the hose and attachments, run them along the vent walls and floors, and corners.

• For a more thorough cleaning, use a damp cloth to clean along the walls as far as you can reach. If possible, attach the damp cloth to a long handle to reach further into the vents.

• Return and attach vent covers.

• Replace your furnace filter at the end of your cleaning, since it will be dirty and this will help with cleaner air flow.

When it’s all done, take a deep breath of that clean, dust-free air that is flowing through your home! If you want to skip the hassle of cleaning your own vents, call a professional to take care of it for you. Call us today at Priority Heating to improve your indoor air quality!