Sheet Metal 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 sheet metal ducts, the rigid brushes work best. Use nylon solid rods, leading them into the duct. Often up to three rods are used. With the drill motor and rod attachment, spin the brushes as the rod system is slowly extracted. Directing the spinning brush in and out does a more thorough job of dislodging debris.

• Side Sweeper: Using the blasting rods, 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 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, rigid sheet metal ducts can be effectively cleaned, enhancing indoor air quality and system performance.