HVAC Duct Cleaning During Your New AC Installation

After many years of faithful service, the time has come to replace your entire heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The contractor has been selected, the equipment has been ordered, and the installation has been scheduled. Before the installation, you have a little time to contemplate the installation process and prepare your home.

Here are some tips to consider in preparation:

This is an excellent time to clean your HVAC ductwork. Ducts transport conditioned air throughout your home and this air carry many airborne particles invisible to the naked eye. You are constantly removing these particles when you dust and vacuum your home. These same particles are accumulating in your ducts. Since the new components of your HVAC system will be shiny and clean, clean the old portion of the system in preparation.

Preparing for HVAC Duct Cleaning

• Declutter the areas around each supply vent (floor vents in most homes) and return registers (larger wall vents close to the ceiling). The duct cleaning contractor will need access to all of the openings.
• The dust will be vacuumed away from vent openings, but if possible cover furniture near the vents to catch any residual dust.
• Protect children and pets by keeping them well clear of workspaces. The process will be exciting—with several workers moving around, and noisy.

The HVAC Duct Cleaning Process

• Our HVAC duct cleaning team will make a visual inspection of various duct locations before cleaning the ducts. Inspections can uncover gaps in the sheet metal connections that allows air to escape into the attic, basement, or walls. It might also reveal the presence of pests or a mold infestation. The inspection might include video equipment or mirrors to make thorough inspections.
• Before the cleaning begins, the vents and registers will be sealed to prevent dust and debris from entering the home. After the vents are sealed, negative pressure (vacuum) is applied to the entire duct system. Flexible brushes with spinning heads are attached to a vacuum cleaner hose. The brushes dislodge dust and debris, while the vacuum removes them from your home. Once the ducts are completely clean the seals will be removed from the vent openings. The HVAC Duct Cleaning process takes approximately 4 hours.
• When the HVAC Duct Cleaning process is finished, the team lead might suggest a high-quality filter and remind you that air filters should be replaced at least every three months.

Preparing for HVAC Installation

• Replacing your HVAC system will be just as exciting and involve a team moving around the home. Protect your children and pets by keeping them clear of workspaces.
• On installation day, the team will arrive as scheduled; if something delays their arrival, the team lead will communicate with you about the alternative schedule.
• The team will complete a pre-installation inspection, locate existing components, observe obstacles for the moving equipment, and clear paths as needed, and foot-traffic covers and tarps as needed to protect your home.

The Installation Process

• As a precaution, the power and gas lines (as needed) will be disconnected and will remain disconnected until the installation is complete. (Avoid very hot or very cold days if possible.)
• The heat pump system uses refrigerant gas for both heating and cooling. Containing this gas is an environmental necessity, so the team will carefully remove the gas from the system lines.
• If electrical upgrades are needed for your new system, they will need to be made prior to installation. An electrical sub-contractor will make the needed upgrades.
• The old equipment will be carefully uninstalled and removed from the house. Keep in mind, HVAC components might be located in the basement/crawlspace, the attic, or a mechanical closet inside the home. New components will usually be installed in the same space as the old units.
• The condenser unit, the outdoor portion of your system, will be replaced as well. It will need to be supported on a solid footing and local regulations may require that it be elevated. The team will ensure a 2-foot clearance on every side of the condenser to accommodate great airflow.
• New connections, tubing, and drain lines might need to be installed to match the new system. Everything will be completed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Electrical connections and refrigerant gas/natural gas lines will be installed and tested.
• The new refrigerant gas lines will be vacuum evacuated and charged with refrigerant gas. This technology changes frequently; if the gas from your old system is useful, it will be reinstalled.
• Often, a new thermostat will also be installed with the new system.

Post Installation Expectations

• After all of the connections have been tested, the power and gas will be reconnected and the system tested. Both heating and cooling functions will be tested.
• The HVAC duct cleaning team lead will inspect the system with you, the homeowner, making you familiar with the component locations and giving instructions concerning the system’s function. Thermostat settings and scheduling will be demonstrated. There will be ample time for discussion and questions, so make sure you understand the function of the system.
• The HVAC duct cleaning team will load up the old equipment, tools, and floor protection. The team lead will make sure to leave a number in case of further questions or problems.

Few home-improvement purchases are as impactful as a new HVAC system. It affects your health and comfort for the next couple of decades. We are committed to making everything about your purchase as pleasant and beneficial as possible.

Have Questions About HVAC Duct Cleaning?

With our four decades of experience as an HVAC installation contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the skill and expertise to assist with HVAC Duct Cleaning and HVAC Maintenance.

We have several financing options available with great options with up to 72-month terms with approved credit. Call us today at  281-880-8805 and let us partner with you for all of your Air Conditioner Tune Up maintenance, repair, and installation needs.