Before the visit
- Clear a path to registers, returns and the air handler or furnace.
- Move fragile items away from the vents.
- Tell us how the attic is reached and whether anything is stored in front of it.
- Arrange for pets to stay in a room that is not being worked on.
When the crew arrives
The technician walks through the home with you, confirms which systems and rooms are included and answers questions about the scope. Floors and furniture near the work areas are covered.
During the cleaning
- Negative pressure: a vacuum collection system is connected to the ductwork so loosened debris is pulled out, not blown into the house.
- Agitation: brushes or air tools loosen buildup from the duct surfaces.
- Registers and returns: covers are removed and cleaned.
- Components in the scope: parts such as the blower are cleaned if they are included.
NADCA describes the cleaning process in more detail.
Noise and time
The vacuum equipment is noisy while it runs, much like a large household vacuum. Most residential visits take a few hours, depending on the size of the home, the number of systems and access. We give you a time estimate with the scope.
Before the crew leaves
- Ask what was cleaned and whether anything could not be reached.
- Ask about any damage, leaks or disconnected runs that were found.
- Check that registers are back in place and the system runs normally.
- Replace the filter if it was not part of the visit.
For the scope itself, read what professional duct cleaning includes.
