As summer winds down, it’s a smart time to start thinking ahead to cooler months. One task that often gets overlooked – cleaning your home’s ducts and vents.

All that dust, pet hair, and pollen that’s settled over the summer gets stirred up the moment you switch your heat back on—sending particles flying into the air you breathe. This month’s FixIt Files helps you get ahead of it with a quick refresh that makes a real difference in air quality, HVAC efficiency, and overall comfort.

Step 1: Check Your Floor & Wall Vents

Start by doing a walk-through of your home:

• Are vents visibly dusty or clogged?
• Do you see signs of pet hair, cobwebs, or debris?
• Are vents blocked by furniture or rugs?

Clean registers with a vacuum and dusting cloth, then remove the covers and wash them in warm, soapy water. Let them dry completely before reinstalling.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Vacuum with a hose attachment (or shop vac)
• Screwdriver (to remove vent covers)
• Soft brush or microfiber cloth
• Warm water & dish soap
• Optional: dryer vent brush or duct cleaning kit

Step 2: Clean Inside the Ducts (As Much As You Can)

You won’t reach the whole duct system yourself, but you can make a difference by:

• Vacuuming just inside each duct with a hose
• Using a long-handled dryer vent brush to gently remove lint and buildup
• Checking for unusual odors, visible mold, or excessive debris

🚫 If you notice anything musty or concerning, it may be time to call in the pros.

Step 3: Don’t Forget the Dryer Vent!

The dryer vent is a fire hazard hotspot. Lint buildup is one of the leading causes of household dryer fires.

• Unplug the dryer
• Detach the vent hose and vacuum it out (or use a dryer vent cleaning brush)
• Check outside where the vent exits your home—clear any blockages

This one’s a must-do before you start drying big, fluffy fall loads!

When to Call a Professional:

• You haven’t had your ducts cleaned in 5+ years
• You’re noticing more dust than usual, worsening allergies, or odd odors
• You see visible mold, pests, or water damage in ductwork

Professional duct cleaning goes far beyond the registers and can improve HVAC performance and air quality throughout your home.

Why It Matters

Clean vents and ductwork not only improve your home’s air quality and HVAC efficiency, but they also help you feel more comfortable indoors—right when you’re about to start spending more time there. Fall is a great time to prep your home for cozy, efficient living.

It’s also the perfect season to start planning bigger updates, like that bathroom refresh or kitchen remodel you’ve been thinking about. At DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of the Pikes Peak Region, we’re here to help with both the little things and the life-changing ones. From helpful seasonal tips to full-service remodeling, our team is ready to help you fall in love with your home all over again.