You are likely well aware of the detrimental effects of a clogged HVAC air filter. However, it is important to note that dirty HVAC registers can also silently sabotage your comfort and well-being. From compromised air circulation to an influx of dust and particles infiltrating your living space, neglecting these essential components of your heating and cooling system can lead to a multitude of issues. Today, your favorite local professionals at Bexley Heating & Cooling are discussing the importance of properly maintaining your registers and showing them a bit of love every now and then. By doing so, you can enhance the harmony of your home and ensure the optimal functioning of your HVAC system.
DIRTY HVAC REGISTERS CAN LEAD TO:
Before we dive into the “how-to,” let’s discuss the “why” behind you maintaining your HVAC registers. We are all familiar with why keeping house is important, but there are a few things that are directly impacted when HVAC registers are not part of your regular cleaning routine.
- A SYSTEM WITH LESS EFFICIENCY – When registers are clogged with dust particles and other loose debris, it can potentially compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system, causing it to work harder and longer than necessary. This, of course, lessens its effectiveness.
- A HIGHER MONTHLY ENERGY BILL – On the same note, when a system continuously runs in an effort to keep up, it results in higher energy usage. When this takes place, your energy savings plummet, therefore increasing your monthly energy bills.
- DECREASED INDOOR AIR QUALITY – Dirty HVAC registers can adversely affect the IAQ within your home. Indoor air quality is impacted by many things, the most common of those being circulating dust, allergens, and other particles throughout your home. Naturally, these types of airborne infiltrations can cause symptoms such as eye and nose irritations; they can also greatly impact those with previously existing medical conditions such as allergies or other respiratory issues.
INSTRUCTIONS TO CLEAN YOUR HVAC REGISTERS:
When you know how to appropriately clean your HVAC registers, it will help you to stay on top of rotating them into your cleaning routine. On top of that, using the right tools and techniques can make a significant difference in preventing you from continually putting this tedious chore on the back burner.
- Before you start, get all the necessary items together: a screwdriver (if you need to remove the register), a vacuum with a cleaning attachment, warm water, dish soap, and a soft rag or cloth.
- Then, if you’re able to, take off the registers for easier access. It’s not a must, but we do advise doing so if the register is extra dirty and the grilles need a thorough cleaning.
- Now, start the cleaning process by using a vacuum cleaner with a brush or nozzle attachment to remove any loose dust and debris from your registers. If you were able to take the register out, you could also carefully vacuum around the vent opening. Please take care not to vacuum down into the ductwork.
- Next, you’ll want to focus on wiping the register. If it is not overly dirty, simply use a lightly moistened cloth with warm water and dish soap to clean it. Just be careful and don’t use excessive water. You don’t want water dripping into the ductwork (if you didn’t remove the registers).
- For deep cleaning and if the registers were actually removed, try soaking them in warm water and dish soap for 5-10 minutes, then rinse them and wipe them down.
- Once all the registers are clean and dry, gently place them back into their original positions.
Taking care of your HVAC registers is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality and creating a cozy and comfortable living space. By regularly cleaning them using the proper methods, you can enjoy improved air circulation and better overall health. So, don’t neglect this important task – start adding it to your cleaning routine today for a healthier and happier home environment!
Call Bexley Heating & Cooling today at (614) 924-7856 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
