You just had your air ducts professionally cleaned. Great choice! A clean system can improve indoor air quality, reduce allergens, help your HVAC system run more efficiently, and cut down on dust throughout your home.
But you may be wondering: What happens next?
To help you make the most of your clean ducts, we’ve put together this post-service checklist with practical steps, pro tips, and answers to common questions.
🌀 1. Run Your HVAC Fan for 24 Hours
After a duct cleaning, it’s a good idea to run your HVAC system’s fan (without heating or cooling) for about 24 hours. This helps circulate clean air throughout your home and pushes out any lingering particles that may have been loosened during the cleaning process.
Pro tip: If your thermostat has a “Fan Only” or “Circulate” setting, use that mode for a full day.
🧹 2. Vacuum & Dust Your Home
Even with powerful HEPA vacuums and containment tools, a small amount of dust may get stirred up during cleaning. We recommend doing a quick vacuum and dust around floors, furniture, and vents 1–2 days after your service to catch any particles that have settled.
Focus on:
-
Window sills
-
Vents and registers
-
Ceiling fan blades
-
Upholstered furniture
🛏 3. Wash Bedding, Curtains, and Upholstery
Fabrics trap dust, pet dander, and allergens—even after a duct cleaning. Toss sheets, blankets, pillowcases, and washable cushion covers into the laundry. This ensures you’re not reintroducing contaminants into your newly cleaned air.
If you have allergy sensitivities or pets, consider vacuuming or professionally cleaning larger fabric items like couches or drapes.
🚪 4. Limit Shoe Traffic Indoors
Did you know that up to 85% of the dust in your home comes from outside—mostly tracked in on shoes?
Consider removing shoes at the door or using indoor-only slippers. It's a simple habit that can help maintain cleaner air (and floors) between duct cleanings.
💨 5. Keep Vents and Registers Clear
Now that your system is clean and optimized, make sure it stays that way. Avoid blocking supply or return vents with furniture, rugs, or boxes. When airflow is restricted, your HVAC system has to work harder—and that reduces efficiency and can lead to uneven temperatures.
Quick check: Walk room to room and make sure every vent has a clear, open path.
🕯 6. Limit Scented Candles, Aerosols, and Sprays
While candles and air fresheners smell nice, they can introduce particles that settle into your ducts and reduce air quality over time. Many sprays and aerosols also contain chemicals that contribute to indoor air pollution.
If you love scents, consider using essential oil diffusers or natural alternatives with good ventilation.
💧 7. Consider a Whole-Home Humidifier
In Denver’s dry climate, lack of humidity can lead to more airborne dust, static electricity, and irritated skin or sinuses. After your ducts are cleaned, adding a whole-home humidifier can help maintain a healthier indoor environment—and make your space feel more comfortable.
Ask your HVAC provider about humidifier options that work with your current system.
🌬 8. Replace HVAC Filters Regularly
We recommend replacing your HVAC filter right after your duct cleaning, and then every 1–3 months after that—depending on your home environment.
-
MERV 8–11 filters are ideal for most homes
-
Upgrade to a HEPA filter if you have allergies, pets, or live in high-pollen or wildfire-prone areas (check compatibility with your system first)
A clean filter helps keep your ducts clean and ensures good airflow and efficiency.
🌼 9. Keep Windows Closed During High Pollen or Smoke Events
If you live in the Denver area, you know how wildfire smoke and seasonal pollen can affect air quality. After a duct cleaning, try to keep your windows shut during poor air quality days to prevent debris from entering your system.
Use a weather app or air quality index (like IQAir or AirNow) to monitor outdoor conditions.
🗓 10. Schedule Your Next Cleaning (and Don’t Forget the Dryer Vent!)
We recommend having your air ducts cleaned every 2–3 years depending on your home, lifestyle, and allergies. Homes with pets, allergy-prone occupants, or lots of construction nearby may benefit from more frequent cleanings.
And don’t forget about your dryer vent—this should be cleaned once a year, especially if it vents through the roof or a long run.
Bonus Tip: Schedule your next cleaning before busy season to lock in your preferred timing and rate.
Final Thought: Keep Your Clean Air Working for You
At Mile High Ducts, we want your clean air to last. Following this checklist will help you make the most of your service—and maintain a healthier, more efficient home year-round.
Have questions or want to book your next service early? Call us at 720-422-9953 or request a quote.