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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.

Several factors contribute to the persistent growth of mold in vents, with excess moisture being the most common culprit. Consistent mold formation in vents indicates an ongoing moisture problem within the HVAC system or its surroundings, likely caused by condensation on cool surfaces in areas with high humidity. Moisture accumulation can also result from leaks in ductwork, inadequate ventilation, or insufficient insulation, creating an environment favorable for mold growth. Regular inspections, addressing potential sources of moisture, maintaining proper ventilation, and routine HVAC maintenance can help prevent the recurrence of mold in vents. If the issue persists, seek professional assistance to identify and rectify the underlying problems.

There are a few ways to detect bad ductwork with the naked eye alone. If you notice dust or debris accumulating on the grills of air duct vents, it’s likely a sign the system is blowing dusty air around. Dust on the vents indicates the entire system should be cleaned.

The only immediate step you need to take after the air duct cleaning finishes is changing your furnace filter. It’s likely to accumulate some dust and debris during the cleaning process. There’s no need to replace the filter before the cleaning starts, as a dirty air filter won’t affect the cleaning process. Regularly replacing your air filter is one of the best steps you can take to keep your air ducts clean in the months after a pro cleans them. The pro should clean up any mess left behind and reattach all the grates.