Get matched with top air duct cleaners in Grants, NM

You do need dampers in your HVAC system, but they do help to regulate airflow and give you better control of the temperature in each room of your home. Most HVAC systems will have dampers installed, but this isn't always the case. If you don’t have designated zones in your home, you’ll likely still have valve control dampers on your supply vents for manual control.

Whether air duct cleaning is worth the cost depends on your specific situation. While it hasn't been proven to prevent health issues, it can be beneficial for improving indoor air quality by reducing contaminants, which is especially important for households with members who have asthma or allergies. Cleaning is generally considered worthwhile if you notice visible mold growth, signs of a pest infestation, excess dust, or debris blowing from the vents. It is also recommended after a major home renovation. Additionally, if your ducts are dirty enough to leak air, cleaning and sealing them can improve your HVAC system's efficiency, ensuring the heated or cooled air reaches your living spaces and potentially leading to long-term savings.

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.

Clean return air vents by using a microfiber cloth soaked in warm, soapy water (or a mild cleaning solution, like vinegar and water). Wipe the interior of the vents, paying close attention to the corners and crevices where dust likes to hide. Use a vacuum brush attachment or handheld model instead of a cloth if desired. Additionally, once or twice a year, remove your air vents and soak them in warm soapy water for 30 minutes before cleaning, drying, and putting them back on.