An Expert’s Guide to Maintaining Your Ducts and Vents

Clean Vents Go a Long Way

When it comes to the vents you can reach, taking a damp cloth to the outward-facing part is a fantastic way to remove excess dust. We also recommend unscrewing your vents (the ones you can reach, anyway) every time you change your air filters and wiping them off on the inside, as well. A pretty tough layer of dust tends to build up on the interior of your vents, and these particles can easily disseminate throughout your home if left there. Taking an extra couple of minutes every month to make sure they’re clean is an excellent way of maintaining your ducts and vents.

It’s also a good idea to clean ceiling vents – even if they’re beyond your reach. For these, use either a broom or stepladder to wipe off excess dust on the exterior side every month (or whenever you see dust accumulating – whichever is more frequent). Though this isn’t a perfect solution, it’s still a great way to clear the openings through which cooled air passes through, allowing your home to stay cool without demanding more effort from your air conditioner.

Keep Your Ducts in a Row

Ideally, we highly recommend having your ducts cleaned periodically. It doesn’t have to be too frequently; scheduling professional cleanings every 3-5 years is enough to remove excess debris and keep them in great shape. Professional cleanings aren’t just an excellent way to maintain cleanliness; they help to ensure that there are no tears or dings in your ducts that could be negatively impacting your air quality. When combined with regular vent maintenance, professional duct cleanings are a relatively cost-effective way to keep your air quality high.

Maintaining your ducts and vents is as simple as setting aside an extra five minutes to make sure they’re clear of dust and debris. To have clean, cool air circulating your home for years to come, consistency is key. For more expert tips about generator maintenance and an exclusive guide to finding the best generator for your home, click here.