How to Clean Different HVAC Vents and How Often

Much like our vehicles, homes, and any other long-term investment, our HVAC systems require regular maintenance, and this includes points where stale, indoor air is allowed to escape safely to the outside. These vents can exhaust anything from laundry room steam to kitchen smoke, as well as condensation and unpleasant odors that frequently occur in bathrooms.

When vents are clogged or otherwise do not function properly, the overall  indoor air quality can suffer, leading to the buildup of bacteria and allergens. Also, other vents in your home, like the kitchen hood vent, can actually catch on fire in the right circumstances if it is not regularly maintained. And even worse, there really is no set schedule to follow for making a day of cleaning all of your HVAC vents in one fell swoop, so to make it easier for you, here is a list of the most common vents in your home, how to clean them, and what is the typically accepted amount of time between cleanings. In general, use your eyes; if there is visible soil, remove it. If it is beyond repair, replace it.

Bathroom Vents

Time between Cleanings: 6 months/as needed

If you have a specialty vent and/or fan assembly, please follow your manufacturer’s instructions.

Procedure:

1. Plastic bathroom vents
   1. Gently pull down on the sides of the vent assembly until the fan and mounting wires are exposed. 
   2. Remove the vent from the slots of the mounting wires.
   3. Place the vent in the sink or tub with some dish soap, then cover in warm water.
   4. Soak for 10 minutes, then remove all dirt, grime, and grease with a cloth or brush. Set aside to dry.
   5. Unplug the plug that powers the fan, then gently remove any dust with a vacuum and bristle brush.
   6. Go over all areas a final time with a damp cloth, then reassemble.

Hood Vent Covers

Time Between Cleanings: 3 months/as needed 

If you have a specialty vent and/or fan assembly, please follow your manufacturer’s instructions.

Procedure:

2. Stainless Steel Filters
   1. Turn off all power to the range hood (lights, fans, etc.)
   2. Place the filter in warm, soapy water and allow it to soak for up to 20 minutes.
   3. Stubborn grease can be removed with baking soda or degreaser.
   4. Scrub with a soft-bristled brush, then rinse with warm water.
   5. Set aside to dry.
3. Activated Carbon Filters
   1. Replace the filter and keep extras on hand, as these cannot be rinsed and/or reused.

All Other Vents

Time Between Cleanings: 3 months/as needed

Procedure:

1. HVAC Maintenance Supplies: Duster, Vacuum, Cleaning Rags, Dish Soap
2. Perform a visual inspection of all vents throughout the home, including floor registers, and remove any dust and/or obstructions as needed.

How FAMCO Can Help

FAMCO is one of the largest manufacturers and distributors of HVAC supplies and accessories in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re looking for exhaust vents or dryer vents for any sized job, we have what you are looking for. If you have any questions about our products and/or services, feel free to give us a call or send us an email. We will be more than happy to help.