Cleaning your vents is important, but you don’t want to damage them or harmfully impact your HVAC system in any way, we have the proper process ready to go just for your home!
Tools
First things first, you’re going to need the right supplies. Honestly, you probably already have most of them. The first item you need is a screw driver. Most air vents are attached to your walls with screws using either a flathead or phillips screwdriver. Having a screwdriver around will make cleaning your vents possible because you’ll be able to remove your vent covers. Next, you’ll need a vacuum cleaner. The normal one you have for cleaning your carpets is perfect. However, it does need to have the detachable hose to get best results. You’ll also need some of the attachments that are usually standard with most vacuums these days. Lastly, you’ll need a scrub brush, if you have it, and some cleaning/drying cloths.
Cleaning
After you’ve collected all the necessary supplies, it’s time to start the actual cleaning. Start by turning off your HVAC system. You don’t want it pushing air out and around your home with no vents to help regulate it. This brings us to the next step; unscrew your vents and remove them from the walls. Use your brush to scrub the dust and dirt off the vent covers and use warm, soapy water to get them extra clean. Using the scrub brush, reach as far as you safely can into the vent and give it a good brushing. With all the dust loosened, it’s time for the vacuum. Using the hose attachment, get as far as you can into the vents and suck up all the dirt. Get it as clean as possible! Afterwards, you’re going to use a clean cloth to give the venting one last good scrub; DO NOT use soap this time. You don’t want to leave the residue behind. Finally, clean in the front of the vent with the mess that you made from removing the gunk from the vents. Screw the vents back into place, and reward yourself with a treat!
Regular cleaning of your vents and HVAC system is really important for lengthening the life of your machines and increasing efficiency, which decreases cost and increases comfort. If, however, you don’t have the time, or just don’t want to get dirty, Twin City Heating, Air and Electric can help you out. Give us a call at (763) 757-4678 or schedule an appointment.
