Flex Ducts: Procedure for Cleaning
Step-by-Step Instructions
Turn On HVAC System Fan: Heat and A/C should be off, but Fan should be on.
Gather Supplies: Collect all necessary supplies and equipment. Set up compressor and vacuum. Arrange suitcases and rods.
Initial Vacuum: Direct vacuum hose as far into the ducts as possible. Will require twisting and pushing the hose to overcome bends. This removes a lot of loose items, and often articles (toys, papers, etc.). Repeat as necessary.
Cover Plate: For all remaining operations, use the vent cover plate with vacuum hose in place.
Agitate: For flexible ducts, the blast balls work best (sometimes the soft brushes can be acceptable). Use blast rods with valve off, or black standard hose, with single or multi-whip, lead it into the duct as far as possible. Often up to three rods can be used, or nearly the full length of hose. When whip is in as far as possible, open the valve and slowly remove the rod/hose and whip, moving to and fro to accommodate the best agitation results. Ultimately you will remove the full length.
Side Sweeper: Using the blasting rods or black standard hose, attach blue ball. Close the valve. Direct blue ball into the duct. Open the valve and slowly withdraw the rod.
Final Vacuum: Direct vacuum hose as far into the ducts as possible. Will require twisting and pushing the hose to overcome bends. Repeat as necessary.
Disinfect: Using Sanijet® canister filled with Vital Oxide and blasting rods or black hose with red ball to direct into the duct with valve off. Then open the valve and depress the canister trigger and slowly remove the blasting rod. Coat uniformly the entire duct length and the mouth of the duct thoroughly.
By following this procedure, flexible metal ducts can be effectively cleaned without damage that rigid brushes can cause, enhancing indoor air quality and system performance.