What air duct cleaning is
Your HVAC system moves air through supply ducts to each room and draws it back through return ducts. Over time, dust and debris can collect inside. Air duct cleaning removes that material from the ductwork and, depending on the scope, from components such as registers, grilles, the blower and the coil.
When Austin homes need it
The EPA recommends cleaning as needed rather than routinely. Consider it when:
- There is substantial visible mold growth inside hard-surface ducts or on other components.
- There are signs of rodents or insects in the ductwork.
- Ducts are clogged with dust and debris that is being released into the home.
- A renovation or new construction has left debris in the system.
Our article on how to tell if your ducts need cleaning walks through each sign.
How professional cleaning works
- Inspection: the technician looks at the accessible ductwork, registers and equipment and agrees the scope with you.
- Protection: floors and furnishings near the work areas are covered.
- Negative pressure: a vacuum collection system keeps the ductwork under negative pressure so dislodged debris is drawn out, not blown into the house.
- Agitation: brushes or air tools loosen debris from duct surfaces.
- Registers and components: grilles and the components in the scope are cleaned.
- Final check: the technician confirms the work and reports anything found that needs repair.
NADCA describes the cleaning process in more detail. Our guide to what professional duct cleaning includes lists the questions to ask.
What it costs
Price depends on the number of systems and vents, the size and layout of the property, access and the condition of the ducts. Compare written scopes rather than headline prices. See our guide to air duct cleaning costs in Austin and our current offers.
Dryer vents
The dryer exhaust is a separate system, but it is often serviced in the same visit. Lint buildup restricts airflow and can contribute to overheating. See ten signs your dryer vent needs attention.
Choosing a provider
- Ask for an inspection and a written scope before work begins.
- Confirm that the provider uses negative-pressure collection and follows NADCA standards.
- Be cautious of very low prices with vague scopes, and of health claims; the EPA notes that duct cleaning has not been shown to prevent health problems.
- Ask how any repairs or damaged sections will be reported.
Areas we serve
We work across Austin and nearby communities, including Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Buda, San Marcos, Lakeway, Lockhart and Wimberley. See all service areas, or our commercial services for businesses.
