How to Clean Your Air Vents

How efficiently your HVAC system works depends on how regularly you clean it.

If there's one area of your home you shouldn't skip during a deep clean, it's your air vents. When your air vents fill up with dust and debris, those particles are then released back throughout your home. Ensuring proper maintenance of these vents will not only improve your indoor air quality, but it will also keep your HVAC system running properly. In some instances, it may be necessary to call a professional to help you clean out your air vents, but routine cleaning is easy enough to tackle on your own.

Preventative maintenance on your HVAC system is important, so aim to give your air vents a general dusting every six months, says Brandon Martin, owner and operator of B Cool Heating and Air Conditioning. "At that time, it would be optimal to ensure your air vents are clean and have clear, proper air flow," he says.

Schedule a deep clean annually to prevent excess dust from building up in your vents. "The more dust that accumulates in your vents, the more dust is recirculated, and that means your HVAC system, furnace, and air conditioner is working just that much harder," says Melissa Poepping, founder of The Chemical Free Home. "Recirculated dust also means recirculated allergies like pollen and pet dander, which aggravate the respiratory system."

Dark rings around ceiling vents, diminished air quality, and an unpleasant odor are all signs that dust is being recirculated throughout your home. If you notice those warning signs, it's likely time to clean your air vents (regardless of when you last cleaned them). Neglecting to clean these vents can cause stress on your HVAC system, which may lead to higher energy bills or costly repairs.

Make sure you have these cleaning supplies and tools on hand before getting started.

Once you've gathered your materials, begin the cleaning process. Start by turning off your HVAC system. "When your air conditioner runs, it constantly draws in air through the vents and circulates it through the system," says Alicia Sokolowski, the president and co-CEO of Aspen Clean. "If you attempt to clean the vents while the system is running, the dust and debris stirred up during the cleaning process can be drawn into the system and cause damage."

In between annual cleanings, there are a few maintenance practices you can follow to keep your air vents relatively dust-free.

Your HVAC system has air filters that trap dust and debris before it can enter the ductwork and circulate throughout your home. "Be sure to change your air filter once or twice a year, or more frequently if you have pets or allergies," says Sokolowski.

Limiting the amount of dust and dander in your home will reduce the amount that enters your air vents. "Regularly dusting and vacuuming your space can help reduce the amount of dirt and dust accumulating in your air vents," says Sokolowski. In addition to dusting, keeping doormats at all entryways will help reduce the amount of dirt and debris in your home.

Generally, you can service your air vents and the surrounding area yourself, but there are some instances when a professional is required.

Deep cleaning inside your air ducts requires a professional with specialized equipment and expertise. "A professional air duct cleaning service will have the tools and equipment necessary to access and clean the inside of your ductwork safely and effectively," says Sokolowski. Choose a reputable service provider with experience and expertise in air duct cleaning. Professional maintenance of your air ducts is especially important after home renovations, as dust and debris may have accumulated in your ductwork.

You should also call a professional if you find any mold during the cleaning process, or if you notice a mildewy scent. "If you notice a musty or stale odor throughout your home, even after cleaning, it could be a sign that mould or other contaminants are present in your ductwork," says Sokolowski.

A lot of dust buildup on your furniture and other surfaces could be a sign that debris is circulating throughout your ductwork. This may require professional help as is could result in a faulty HVAC system. Excess dust may also cause your allergies to act up. "If you or someone in your home is experiencing allergy symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, or itchy eyes, it could be a sign that allergens are present in your ductwork," says Sokolowski.