How to Clean Vents in the Foundation of a House

Cleaning the air ducts in your house once every few months can help control pollutants in your living space. When cleaning your air vents, inspect them for signs of mold, rodents or bugs or other unsanitary conditions. In addition, an occasional inspection of the foundation vent system can reveal lost air or holes that can affect your heating or cooling system's efficiency.

Screwdriver
Rags or sponge
Detergent
Disinfectant
Dust brush
Vacuum

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the vent from the outside of the foundation wall. Use a screwdriver to open the vent and pry it out of place.
- 2
  Take the filter or screen off the frame.
- 3
  Wash each piece separately with soapy water and a sponge. Allow it to air dry. If the filter is removable, consider replacing it with a new, clean filter.
- 4
  Use soap and water or a cleaning solution such as vinegar and water to clean the inside of the vent. A disinfectant can be used to clean the vent pieces if you are concerned about bacteria or germs.
- 5
  Allow the vent pieces to dry completely.
- 6
  Use a dust brush or stiff bristled brush to loosen dust and debris from inside of the vent walls and then vacuum up the dust.
- 7
  Put the vent pieces back into the vent space.

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Ventilation