Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on the number of supply and return vents, how many HVAC systems the home has, and how easy the attic or crawlspace is to work in. A smaller home with good access takes less time than a large two-system house. We give you a time estimate along with the price after the inspection.

Someone should be there at the start to show us the HVAC equipment and access points, and at the end for the walk-through. In between, most people go about their day. Keeping pets and small children away from the work areas is a good idea.

We do not promise that. The U.S. EPA notes there is little evidence that cleaning only the ducts improves system efficiency. Dirty coils, clogged filters and leaky or disconnected ducts usually have a bigger effect, which is why we point out those issues when we see them.

Yes, with the right tools. Flexible duct has a thin inner liner, so we use gentler agitation than we would on sheet metal. If a flex run is already torn, crushed or brittle, we will tell you that cleaning is not the right answer for that section.

No. Cleaning physically removes dust and debris from the ducts. Sanitizing is a product applied afterward to cleaned surfaces. If a company offers to spray your ducts without cleaning them first, that is a reason to look elsewhere.

We do not make that claim. The U.S. EPA says duct cleaning has never been shown to prevent health problems, and it notes the science on chemical treatments in ducts is limited. We describe sanitizing as a label-directed product application, nothing more.

That depends on the product. Re-entry times and ventilation steps are printed on the label, and we will go over them with you before the appointment so you can plan for pets, children and anyone with sensitivities.

Usually, if the ducts are still clean and the material is compatible with the product. If several months have passed or debris has built up again, the ducts may need cleaning first. We will tell you after a quick look.

No. A tune-up is done by an HVAC technician who checks electrical components, gas pressure, refrigerant and safety controls. HVAC cleaning removes dust and debris from the parts that move air. Many homeowners benefit from both, done by the right trade.

Not always, but it often makes sense. Cleaning ducts while leaving a dirty blower or return plenum in place means dust can be pushed back into clean ductwork. If we see that risk during the inspection, we will mention it.

Usually, yes. Attic and closet installations are common in Los Angeles. Very tight spaces can limit how far we can disassemble the equipment, and we will tell you which parts we can reach before we start.

No. We do not do mechanical, electrical, gas or refrigerant repairs. We will describe what we saw so you can pass it on to a licensed HVAC technician.

Spring is ideal, before the heaviest cooling months, but cleaning during the season is fine too. If your outdoor unit sits under a tree or near a dusty area, a check after a windy stretch or before summer can be worthwhile.

A gentle rinse with a garden hose, with the power shut off, is something many homeowners do. Avoid pressure washers, which can flatten the fins, and do not open the electrical panels. If the coil is heavily packed or the cabinet needs to come apart, call a pro.

Not necessarily. A dirty coil or clogged filter can contribute, but weak cooling can also be a refrigerant, electrical or mechanical problem. We clean the components; a licensed HVAC technician diagnoses and repairs the system.

Call and tell us the make and model. Ductless indoor units are built differently from central air systems, and we will let you know honestly whether it is a job we can take on.

Most straightforward residential vents take about an hour, sometimes less. Long runs, roof terminations, tight laundry closets or a vent that needs repair can add time. We give you a realistic window when we schedule.

Someone needs to let us in and confirm where the dryer and the outside vent are. For condos and apartments, it also helps to know in advance whether roof or exterior access needs to be arranged through the building manager or HOA.

Often, yes. Many roof vents can be cleaned from the laundry side, the roof side or both, depending on the run and safe roof access. If roof access isn't safe or permitted, we tell you before we start and explain what we can and can't reach.

They are separate systems, but combining them on one visit can save you a second appointment. Your HVAC ducts move conditioned air through the house, while the dryer vent only carries exhaust from the dryer to the outside.

Often the accessible parts can: the transition duct, the wall connection, exterior hoods and sections in an attic or crawlspace. Duct buried inside finished walls or ceilings may require opening drywall, which we'll discuss with you before quoting.

Cleaning removes lint from a duct that is intact. Repair fixes the duct itself: replacing crushed or plastic sections, reconnecting joints, replacing hoods or changing the route. Many repair visits include a cleaning of the sections that stay.

A hood with a working flap or damper that closes when the dryer is off helps keep birds out. A broken flap is a common cause. Screens over the outlet are not the answer, because they trap lint; code prohibits screens at the dryer duct termination.

Yes. In multifamily buildings, repairs to shared walls, roofs or exterior hoods usually need HOA or property manager approval and access, so it helps to involve them early. We can coordinate with them on scheduling.

It shouldn't be. We lay drop cloths and run vacuum equipment while brushing so soot stays in the fireplace. It helps to move rugs, screens and decor away from the hearth before we arrive.

Yes. Please don't burn anything for at least a day beforehand so the firebox and flue are cool and ash can be removed safely.

It depends on the setup. Some inserts and gas log sets must be removed or disconnected for access, and gas components should be handled by a qualified gas appliance technician. Tell us what you have when you call so we can plan the visit.

Cleaning removes deposits and debris, but it doesn't certify that a fireplace is safe. If we see possible cracks, gaps, loose masonry or other concerns, we'll point them out and recommend an evaluation by a qualified chimney professional before you use it.

A straightforward top-up in an average single-family attic is often done in a day. Full removal, air sealing and replacement, or an attic with tight access, can take longer. We'll give you an estimated timeline with the quote.

Blown-in material fills around joists, wiring and irregular spaces well and is a common choice for topping up. Batts can work well in open, regular framing. We recommend based on your attic's layout and what's already there.

Someone should be there at the start and end so we can confirm access, walk through the plan and review the finished attic. Clearing a path to the attic hatch beforehand helps the day go smoothly.

Yes. Many LA homes have ducts in the attic. We work around them and point out any ducts that look disconnected or damaged so they can be dealt with before new insulation covers them.