How Long Does Air Duct Cleaning Take?

So, How Long Does Duct Cleaning Take? It Depends! 

The time it takes to clean air ducts depends on various factors. Most notably, it depends on the HVAC system's size, including the air ducts' length and the number of integrated components. Here is an overview of the most influential factors: 

1. HVAC System Size 

Ordinarily, cleaning an HVAC system's air ducts takes between three and seven hours, depending on its size. Comprehensive air duct cleaning for small properties measuring less than 3,000sqf usually takes about three hours. In contrast, air duct cleaning for larger properties measuring more than 3,000sqf take between three and five hours. 

2. The Number of Attached Components 

Air ducts comprise various components that must be cleaned, including: 

• Vents. 
• Return registers. 
• Filters. 
• Furnace. 
• Air conditioning coil. 
• Duct covers. 

Thorough air duct cleaning entails wiping the dust and debris off the furnace, air conditioning coil, duct covers, vents, and return registers. It also entails cleaning or replacing the filters. Naturally, cleaning more of these air duct components would take longer. Notably, incompetent 'professionals' don't clean all of the components, hence their ability to promise quick cleaning times. 

3. Commercial or Residential 

Besides property size, property setting also matters when determining how long it will take to clean an HVAC system's air ducts. Ordinarily, it takes longer to clean a commercial property's HVAC system than it takes to clean a residential property's system. 

The difference in cleaning times for commercial and residential duct cleaning usually comes down to the HVAC system's accessibility. Ideally, professionals cleaning a residential HVAC system's air ducts can work mostly uninterrupted, while those working on an HVAC system usually have to be discreet, slowing their progress. It is also worth noting that commercial properties usually have bigger and more complex HVAC systems than residential properties. 

Tips to Prepare for Air Duct Cleaning 

You can help reduce the time it will take to clean your HVAC system's air ducts by preparing well in advance. You can prepare by doing the following: 

• Clearing a pathway for the HVAC technicians by moving furniture and collecting clutter off the floor. 
• Cleaning up clutter around the vents and registers. 
• Clearing space around the air conditioner and furnace. 
• Relocating pets and kids to prevent disruptions and potential accidents. 

The general idea is to make it as easy as possible for the technicians to access and clean your HVAC system. Getting out of the technicians' way would also help, but you can still monitor their progress from a distance. 



It would also be prudent to schedule air duct cleaning for times when the HVAC system or property is not in use. For example, commercial property owners should consider scheduling air duct cleaning during weekends when everyone is at home. 

Get Your Air Ducts Cleaned Today! 

Are you looking for air duct cleaning services in Kansas City? Midwest Duct Cleaning Services can clean your air ducts thoroughly and in record time. We offer HVAC maintenance and cleaning services for residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional properties. Get in touch today to learn more about our services and how we can help.