How Air Duct Cleaning Is Done: What to Expect in Northeast Ohio

How Do Professionals Clean Air Ducts?

Professional air duct cleaning is a multi-step process performed by trained technicians using specialized tools. It’s not a job for a regular vacuum or a DIY attempt, but rather a procedure that follows industry guidelines (such as NADCA standards) to ensure a thorough clean.

Here’s an overview of the typical steps involved in professional air duct cleaning:

1. Inspection and Setup

A technician begins by inspecting your HVAC system and duct layout. Cameras may be used to examine the inside of your ducts and identify problem areas. Protective coverings are placed on floors and walls, and technicians wear shoe covers to keep your space clean.

2. Creating Negative Pressure with Vacuum Equipment

A large vacuum system is then connected to your ductwork, often through the main trunk line. This creates negative pressure, pulling dust and debris out of the ducts while preventing contaminants from reentering your home or building.

In Northeast Ohio, Clean Air America uses state-of-the-art Power Vacuum Trucks that pull 16,000 cubic feet of air per minute—more than four times the suction of standard portable equipment. This ensures all loosened debris is captured in the truck-mounted containment system outside.

3. Agitating and Loosening Dust Inside the Ducts

With the vacuum running, technicians move room to room, working through each vent. Specialized tools are used to dislodge contaminants:

• Rotary brushes to scrub inside metal ducts
• High-pressure air whips for flex ducts or tight spaces
• Air skippers and compressed air nozzles to blast away buildup

Each vent is cleaned section by section, with debris pulled back into the vacuum system.

4. Cleaning HVAC Components

Proper duct cleaning includes more than just the ducts. Professionals also clean:

• Air handler or furnace
• Blower motor and fan
• Evaporator coil (if accessible)
• Return air plenum and supply trunk

5. Optional Sanitization

If needed, a sanitizing mist may be applied inside the ductwork using an EPA-registered solution. This is especially useful when mold or bacteria are present. Clean Air America offers this service only after physical cleaning is complete.

6. Resealing and Final Cleanup

Technicians reseal any access points with airtight panels or gaskets and reattach vents. The system is tested, and the work area is cleaned so everything is left in proper order.

What Equipment Do Air Duct Cleaners Use?

Professional duct cleaning requires industrial-grade tools, not household vacuums. Here’s what Clean Air America’s technicians rely on:

Power Vacuum Trucks

• 200 HP engines
• 48-inch suction fans
• Suction power rated at 16,000 CFM

These trucks remain outside your home or business, collecting all dust and debris. This setup ensures a truly mess-free experience.

Agitation Tools

• Rotary brushes for rigid ducts
• Air whips and skippers for delicate or flexible ducts
• Compressed air guns for corners and hard-to-reach spots

Video Inspection Cameras

Used before and after cleaning, cameras allow technicians to confirm results and show customers the difference.

What to Watch Out For in Equipment

Not all duct cleaning companies use the same quality of equipment. Some providers rely on smaller, portable machines like the examples below:

   

While these machines may look professional, they lack the suction power and capacity of truck-mounted systems. That means dust and debris may not be removed as thoroughly, and in some cases, it can even get redistributed into the home.

Is Air Duct Cleaning Messy or Noisy?

Will it make a mess?

No. When done correctly, duct cleaning should not release dust into your home. Negative pressure ensures debris is pulled into the vacuum system outside. Clean Air America also protects flooring, furniture and registers during the process.

How loud is it?

The process does create noise from the vacuum truck, brushes and air tools. Inside, you may hear airflow shifts and tool activity, but the noise is temporary and most customers find it tolerable. Families with pets or young children may prefer to be in another area while work is underway.

Can I Clean My Air Ducts Myself?

While homeowners can dust vent covers and change HVAC filters, fully cleaning duct interiors is not a DIY project. Without professional equipment, it’s nearly impossible to generate the negative pressure needed to remove debris. According to NADCA and HVAC experts, improper attempts can stir up dust or damage ductwork. Professional cleaning ensures safe and effective results.

Why It Matters Who Does Your Air Duct Cleaning

Not all companies approach air duct cleaning the same way. Some large national brands, such as Stanley Steemer and Coit, include duct cleaning as one of many add-on services. While they are well known for carpet and upholstery cleaning, ductwork is not their primary focus.

At Clean Air America, air duct cleaning is our specialty. For more than 25 years, it has been the core of our business, not an occasional service. Our technicians are highly trained and NADCA certified, and we use advanced equipment such as our exclusive Power Vacuum Trucks. Because we focus exclusively on duct cleaning, we understand how to properly clean every type of system, from residential homes to complex industrial facilities.

When you want the job done thoroughly and correctly, choosing a company that specializes in air duct cleaning makes all the difference.

For additional common questions

If you’d like answers to other frequently asked questions about duct cleaning and indoor air quality, please visit our FAQ page.

Serving All of Northeast Ohio

Clean Air America proudly serves residential, commercial and industrial clients across Cleveland, Akron, Canton, Youngstown, Mentor, Elyria and surrounding communities. With more than 25 years of experience and over 35,000 satisfied customers, we are one of Northeast Ohio’s most trusted names in air quality services.

Get a Free Quote for Air Duct Cleaning in Northeast Ohio

Whether you’re struggling with dust allergies, planning seasonal HVAC maintenance or haven’t had your ducts cleaned in years, Clean Air America can help. Our certified technicians provide mess-free, stress-free service using the most powerful vacuum trucks in the industry.

Call 866-AIR-DUCT or request a quote online to schedule your air duct cleaning today.