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You may be able to clean your smoke shelf yourself, though it depends on whether you can reach the shelf with the tools you have. If you cannot see through the chimney damper to the shelf, it’s better to rely on a professional chimney specialist. It’s also wise to get a professional if you see creosote buildup, which is typically hard, shiny, and sometimes sticky. A pro has the correct tools and safety equipment to properly clean out the chimney.

To determine if an HVAC or vent damper is open or closed, locate the handle or lever on the outside of the ductwork. Typically, the damper is open when the handle is in a horizontal position, parallel to the duct, and closed when it is in a vertical position, perpendicular to the duct. If you can see through the damper, it is open. You can also test for airflow by waiting for your furnace or air handler to turn on and feeling for air coming through the vent.

While homeowners can find DIY air duct cleaning tools, full duct cleaning is not recommended due to the complexity and specialized equipment required for the job. You can perform basic maintenance tasks like changing filters and vacuuming vents, but you can’t access all areas of the ductwork. It’s also not safe for homeowners to try to use high-powered vacuums and handle potential contaminants like mold and dust. Hiring a certified air duct cleaning service is the best option for a comprehensive and safe cleaning.

Return air ducts should generally not be installed in rooms with high humidity, contaminants, or strong odors. This includes bathrooms, kitchens, garages, closets, attics, and furnace or boiler rooms. Placing vents in these areas can draw moisture, fumes, odors, and potentially hazardous gases like carbon monoxide into your HVAC system, which can damage ductwork, promote mold growth, and compromise your home's indoor air quality and safety. According to the International Code Council, there are some exceptions. For example, a return duct may be placed in a kitchen if it is at least 10 feet away from cooking appliances and serves only that room. Similarly, a garage can have a return duct if it is part of a dedicated forced-air system that only serves the garage. For optimal performance, prioritize installing return air vents in central locations and rooms with consistent temperature needs, such as bedrooms and living spaces. If you are unsure, consult a professional duct installer for guidance.