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Air Duct Cleaning: Everything You Need To Know

July 7, 2025 by Alejandro Paz

Keeping your home’s air clean and your HVAC system efficient starts with understanding what’s flowing through your ducts. Over time, dust, debris, and allergens can build up — impacting everything from your air quality to your energy bill. That’s why regular air duct cleaning isn’t just a maintenance task — it’s a step toward a healthier, more comfortable home.

As your local heating and air technicians in Colorado Springs, we understand the importance of HVAC systems designed for high performance and reliability. With the changing seasons, it is essential to maintain your air ducts to ensure your HVAC system remains dependable.

At Steadfast Heating & Air, we specialize in thorough air duct cleaning and care in Colorado Springs. We’re proud to serve our local community by helping homeowners understand when, why, and how to clean their air ducts, so you can breathe more easily and keep your system running smoothly throughout the year. Trust us, your local, licensed HVAC contractor, to show you the ropes.

What is Air Duct Cleaning?

Air duct cleaning is the process of removing dust, mold, mildew, debris, pollen, and allergens from the ducts in your house that connect to an HVAC system, promoting clean air and a reliable HVAC system year-round.

When Should I Clean My Air Ducts?

According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association, you should get your air ducts cleaned regularly, paying special attention to external factors surrounding your home and lifestyle.

We recommend cleaning your air ducts every 2-3 years to ensure clean breathing without any complications. We especially recommend a shorter timeframe, depending on whether you have pets, have recently renovated your house, live near a construction site, or suffer from asthma and allergies.

Symptoms of Dirty Air Ducts:

Increased allergy or respiratory issues
Dust builds up around your vents
A Increase in your electrical bill
Visible mold
Lack of airflow
Musty odors
Pest infestations within the air duct

How Does the HVAC System Work?

HVAC systems cover heating, cooling, and ventilation throughout your home. With heating and cooling, the air is circulated through the air ducts in your home to maintain your desired temperature.

The ventilation system removes stale indoor air and replaces it with filtered outdoor air at your chosen temperature. The cycle is as follows: the thermostat or timed ventilation system detects your desired temperature, then air passes through air duct filters and cooling and heating systems.

Why Is It Important to Clean Your Air Duct System?

Regularly cleaning your air duct system improves your indoor air quality and the longevity and efficiency of your HVAC system. Cleaning your air ducts helps eliminate odors caused by mildew, mold, and debris. It also clears dust, allergens, and airborne pollutants that cause respiratory reactions such as asthma and allergic reactions.

Next, it will reduce your energy and utility bill because your HVAC system will not need to work as hard to heat, cool, and properly ventilate your home.

Lastly, in extreme cases, a buildup of debris and dust can pose a significant fire hazard. Ultimately, maintaining clean air ducts promotes a healthier, safer, and more cost-effective living environment.

Should I Hire Professional Help to Clean My Air Ducts?

Hiring licensed HVAC professionals ensures your air ducts are thoroughly cleaned and properly disinfected. These experts utilize high-grade tools and commercial-grade products to thoroughly clean your air ducts, including areas that are inaccessible during DIY cleanings.

Due to the specialized equipment required, professional duct cleaning is more cost-effective and reliable than attempting to clean your own air ducts. By choosing a certified service, you’re investing in the safest, most reliable, and affordable solution for your home or business.

A picture of a Steadfast Heating & Air Work Vehicle.

How Much Does Air Duct Cleaning Cost?

Professional air duct cleaning typically costs between $300 and $700, depending on the size of your home, the number of vents, the accessibility of your ductwork, and the level of contamination within the system.

It is best to have your house inspected by a local HVAC technician to obtain an exact number. DIY air duct cleaning can cost anywhere from $20 to $300, depending on how thoroughly you plan on cleaning your air ducts. The cost can depend on how thoroughly you clean your ducts, the number of tools required, and the products needed for the job.

What to Expect During an Air Duct Cleaning

Inspection	An initial duct inspection can take place anywhere from a week to months in advance. This is when a licensed technician will visit your home to inspect your air duct system and provide you with a quote. Ensure that you know the location of your HVAC system, move all furniture out of the way of the vents, and secure pets. Be sure to point out all vents to the duct cleaning technician and any areas where you have questions or concerns. Then, they will provide you with an estimate for the cleaning service, and you will be able to schedule a time and date that is most convenient for you. Please note that the service takes between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the size of your house, and it can be loud.
Professional Setup	On the date and time chosen by you, a technician will come in a service vehicle and lay down protective cloth to protect your house from any mess. Then, the technician will conduct a more thorough inspection to identify any additional issues.
Cleaning Process	During the cleaning process, the technician will turn off our HVAC system. Then, using professional-grade tools, the technician will begin by vacuuming, scrubbing, and disinfecting the interior of your air duct system. The technician will use a high-powered vacuum, compressed air tools, Flexible rotary brushes, and other specialized tools to clean your air duct system thoroughly. This will remove dust and debris from the air ducts. Then, to ensure that mold spores are eliminated, your trusted technician will use commercial-grade disinfecting products to ensure that your HVAC system provides you with the freshest air possible.
System Check	Once the cleaning is complete, the technician will use a camera to inspect the air duct and ensure it is spotless. Then, they will turn your HVAC system back on to ensure it is operating at its best, and they will reinstall the vents.
Feedback	After the cleaning, the technician will provide you with the results of the cleaning and instructions on how to maintain clean air ducts. Finally, the technician will give you the final invoice, which thoroughly explains the cost of the service.

A picture of a guy working on a ceiling vent.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Duct Cleaning:

Here’s everything you need to know about air duct cleaning.

Can I Leave My House During an HVAC Cleaning Service?

It is not recommended to leave during an air duct cleaning, as it is essential to listen to the feedback provided by the technician. They will provide you with feedback throughout the process on what they are cleaning and how to maintain your air duct system on a continuous basis.

What is Cleaned in an Air Duct Service?

Here is a list of all parts that are cleaned during an air duct cleaning service:

Supply and return ducts
All filters
Registers
Grilles
Diffusers
Heat exchangers
Cooling coils
Condensate drain pans
Fan motor
Fan housing

What Tools Are Needed to Clean Air Ducts?

Here is a list of professional-grade tools used by HVAC technicians when cleaning an air duct system:

High-powered vacuum system
Flexible rotary brushesused
Air whips and skipper balls
Compressed air tools
Inspection cameras
Hand tools to clean exterior pieces
EPA-registered disinfectants

Need Your Ducts Cleaned?

Clean air ducts make a noticeable difference — not just in the air you breathe, but in the performance and lifespan of your HVAC system. Whether you’re noticing signs of buildup or simply staying on top of routine maintenance, professional air duct cleaning is a smart way to protect your home and health. If you’re unsure where to start, a licensed technician can walk you through the process and make sure everything is done right.

At Steadfast Heating & Air in Colorado Springs, our expert technicians in HVAC services offer thorough, professional, and affordable indoor air quality services. If you need an air duct cleaning in Colorado Springs, call our team to get cleaner, healthier air today!

Why It’s Best to Leave HVAC Maintenance to the Professionals

February 26, 2025 by Alejandro Paz

You might think that completing home repairs and maintenance yourself can save time and money. However, one task is definitely best left to skilled professionals: HVAC maintenance. This service requires training and experience to prevent damage to the system, your home, or yourself.

While saving money is a top priority for many homeowners, you can cost yourself money if HVAC preventative maintenance is not done correctly. Money isn’t the only reason you should leave this job to the pros, though.

Why Is HVAC Maintenance Important?

Like cars running better or maintaining your health, regular heating and cooling system maintenance keeps it in top shape. By scheduling these yearly appointments with a professional, you gain benefits such as:

Preventing expensive repairs
Reducing energy consumption
Improving air quality

Maintenance appointments allow technicians to replace worn-out parts as necessary and extend the unit’s lifespan.

Reasons to Leave This Service to Professionals

You might be tempted to watch a how-to video and give maintenance a try on your own. However, this is not a task for amateurs. Professionals can provide things you can’t, such as:

Knowledge and Skill

HVAC maintenance technicians have undergone extensive training and are certified to work on this equipment. They have the necessary knowledge and experience to diagnose and repair any problems with your system.

Professional technicians know how to identify issues that may not be obvious to the average homeowner, and they can choose the best solution to resolve them quickly and effectively. These experts also stay current with the latest technologies and updates in the industry so that you can receive the best possible service.

Optimal Safety

Heating and cooling systems are complex pieces of equipment. If you’re unsure about what you’re doing, working with them can become dangerous quickly. HVAC systems have many electrical parts, and it can be risky to work on them.

This risk increases when working with gas furnaces and other combustible fuel machinery. Professional HVAC maintenance service allows trained technicians with the required training to handle these dangerous situations.

Improved Efficiency

Annual HVAC maintenance from a reputable company can improve your system’s efficiency. In turn, enhanced efficiency can lower your utility bills because your system will not have to work as hard to keep you comfortable. Improved efficiency also means lower emissions, which is more eco-friendly.

Ensured Warranty Coverage

Many HVAC units are covered by a manufacturer’s warranty when purchased. However, the warranty can be voided if a qualified technician does not service the equipment. Some warranties also require routine professional maintenance. Without it, the warranty will not cover any defects that may occur.

Guaranteed Results

You can find videos and blogs about HVAC maintenance on the internet. Easy access to this information makes it tempting to complete the project on your own. However, you likely lack the proper tools or knowledge to detect warning signs that something is wrong.

Saving money and feeling a sense of accomplishment are important. But leaving this service to a professional ensures the job is done right.

Top-Notch HVAC Solutions From Local Pros

If you need professional services for your HVAC system, you can count on Steadfast Heating & Air. We customize solutions to meet your needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Scheduling a Furnace Replacement: When Furnace Repairs Aren’t Enough

February 14, 2025 by Alejandro Paz

You rely on your furnace to keep your home comfortable during the chilly months. However, ongoing repairs to older systems become expensive. When you have the local HVAC company on speed dial for frequent service, it might be time to consider a furnace replacement.

Knowing when to make this decision can save money, improve efficiency, and ensure uninterrupted warmth in your home. Recognizing when it is time to search for a “furnace replacement near me” can make the process less stressful.

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Furnace?

It would be nice if a furnace lasted forever, but it won’t. The average furnace can last between 15 and 20 years. If your system is close to this age, it’s time to evaluate how well it performs. Some furnaces last longer because they were properly maintained and installed correctly. In contrast, others fail earlier because of poor quality of care.

Warning Signs Indicating You Need a Furnace Replacement

Deciding whether to replace furnace equipment isn’t always easy. These systems are an investment, and the process can interfere with your daily routine. Unfortunately, delaying furnace replacements can end up causing more damage, which will only cost you more money.

Some clear warning signs that a new furnace is in your future include:

Rising energy bills without increased usage
Uneven heating across your home
Unusual, loud noises coming from your furnace
Soot collecting near the furnace register
Flames being yellow instead of blue
The need for frequent repairs

Upgrading your furnace is often the best option when the repair costs are half the price of replacing it altogether.

Why Upgrading Your Furnace Is Worth It

Investing in a modern heating system brings new benefits to your home. If you’re debating whether a replacement is the right move, consider the long-term advantages of a new system, including the following:

Better energy efficiency
Improved indoor air quality
Consistent heating throughout your home
Increased home value
Long-term cost savings

Breakdowns and inconsistent heating are frustrating. Updating your furnace makes it more reliable, giving you peace of mind and saving you the cost and headache of frequent repairs.

Choosing the Right Time to Replace Your Furnace

If it is an emergency, now is the time to schedule your replacement appointment. However, if you are only beginning your research, you might wonder if there is a best time to do it.

Timing your furnace replacement correctly can make the process easier. The best times to schedule this service are late spring and early fall. HVAC companies are in less demand during these months and may offer discounts. You’ll also avoid the stress of dealing with a failing furnace during peak cold weather.

Find a trusted professional in your area to ensure the process is as easy as possible. An experienced technician can assess your heating needs and recommend the right size and type of system for your space.

Eliminate the Need for Constant Repairs

If your furnace is old or showing signs of aging, it’s time to schedule a replacement. Steadfast Heating & Air are local professionals, and we’re here to help. Contact us to schedule your appointment before your system fails!

A Guide to Preparing for Your Furnace Replacement

January 29, 2025 by Alejandro Paz

Needing to replace your home’s heating system is a rare occurrence for most homeowners, so you might not know what to expect. While you don’t have to do too much to prepare, learning how to simplify the furnace installation process will certainly help. The installers will appreciate your efforts, and you’ll have a more positive experience.

The following tasks will ensure you are ready to get started replacing your furnace:

Clean Essential Areas

Homeowners often store clutter around their furnaces during the warmer seasons. If that is a habit you practice, it’s one you’ll want to break before it’s time to replace your unit. You need to avoid leaving obstacles strewn about that could complicate the HVAC installation. And even after the process is complete, continuing to clutter up the space might pose a fire hazard once your furnace replacement is ready for use.

Turn Off the Utilities

While replacing a furnace, your installation team will disconnect the lines that connect your old device to the natural gas supply. They will also work with your home’s electrical wiring as they connect the new heating system. While a good technician knows to check these utilities before starting their work, you can help by shutting off the utilities before they arrive.

Manage Your Children and Pets

A home without proper heating provides the ideal environment for the spread of viruses and bacteria, which puts anyone with compromised immunity at risk. You can avoid dealing with common winter illnesses by finding heated accommodations for your family and pets until you replace your broken furnace.

In addition, keeping your children and pets away from your home during the furnace installation process will give your HVAC technicians more freedom to set up the new system, as they won’t have to worry about anyone injuring themselves on the equipment.

Write a List of Questions to Ask the Installer

Consider any issues that concern you ahead of time and compile them into a list. Doing so will help you get informed answers when your installer arrives. A reputable furnace replacement company, such as Steadfast Heating & Air, will eagerly answer any concerns you have about your replacement furnace before our technicians arrive on-site.

Check Your Thermostat

Many signs of a furnace malfunction result from a faulty thermostat and have nothing to do with the condition of the furnace itself. To avoid any confusion, check your thermostat before the HVAC technicians arrive to start the furnace installation process. Replace the batteries in the thermostat and adjust its settings to make sure it functions properly.

Test the Carbon Monoxide Detector

When replacing a furnace, HVAC technicians will make sure the connections are secure to avoid gas leaks and other hazards. In addition, they will check the components in the furnace, including the heat exchanger, to ensure the unit won’t leak carbon monoxide into your home. Make sure you have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in place and replace their batteries as soon as you schedule a furnace installation (as well as once a year, in general).

Is It Time to Update Your Heating System?

Steadfast Heating & Air provides HVAC installation services in addition to maintenance and repairs. If you think your furnace is reaching the end of its lifetime, we can provide a thorough inspection and replacement recommendation. Contact us to get started!

Factors to Consider When Weighing Furnace Repair Against Replacement

January 15, 2025 by Alejandro Paz

Upon recognizing that your furnace is beginning to fail, your first step should always involve calling a professional HVAC technician. In many cases, a heating problem requires minor repairs to restore efficient and effective service.

However, when your system’s defects become more severe, you’ll have to decide whether it’s worth it to fix what you have to replace it altogether. With that in mind, here are some aspects to consider as you make that decision:

The Age of Your Furnace

Typically, furnaces last 15 to 20 years with sufficient care. If your heating system is reaching that benchmark, furnace repairs may not represent the most pragmatic solution. An old furnace will use more energy, break down more frequently, and fail to properly heat your home. If you’re already experiencing these issues, it might be time for a replacement.

However, since it has been up to two decades since your last furnace replacement, in this case, you may not be familiar with your heating options. Modern furnaces are more energy-efficient than older models, and some people find that energy-efficient heat pumps offer even more savings. Steadfast Heating & Air can help you learn about all of your heating alternatives.

The Presence of Fumes or Leaks

Through the years, you’ve probably used common air duct cleaning tips to keep track of the condition of your ducts. And that likely helped you seal air leaks and reduce energy costs. Keeping up with duct and HVAC repairs promotes optimal energy efficiency and utility savings.

Similarly, your heating system can develop natural gas leaks. Even though a gas leak also affects efficiency, it requires immediate furnace repair for safety reasons. If your unit frequently develops fuel leaks, a furnace replacement will permanently resolve the issue.

The Amount You Spend on Repairs

Consider the total amount you spent on furnace repair services over the previous season. When you anticipate spending more than a few hundred dollars on heating repairs this season, it can be more finance-friendly to simply replace the system. A new furnace will function properly for several years and come with a manufacturer’s warranty.

Changes in Your Heating Cycles

Scheduling annual furnace maintenance will reverse wear and tear. While that will keep the system operating like new for longer, it will still lose heating power gradually over time. At some point, the weakened system won’t provide sufficient heat.

Repairing a furnace will address a sudden loss of heat, but a gradual loss of heating suggests the need for a replacement heating system.

Rising Energy Costs During the Winter

If you notice that your energy bills continue to rise each month, scheduling furnace repair services can uncover the problem. Usually, increased energy waste results from an HVAC malfunction; the system will use more energy to meet your heating needs as a malfunction weakens its inherent heating power.

An HVAC technician can diagnose the underlying malfunction, but if they can’t find a specific cause, they might recommend replacing the furnace. That is usually the best solution when several components are too worn to function properly.

Start Your Furnace Replacement With Help From the Pros

Steadfast Heating & Air provides HVAC maintenance, repairs, and replacement services. If your furnace is malfunctioning, we’ll diagnose the problem and offer repair solutions. We can also help you choose an energy-efficient replacement when that time comes. Contact us to schedule service today!

HVAC Emergency vs. Regular Issues: How to Tell the Difference

December 30, 2024 by Alejandro Paz

When your air conditioner starts exhibiting strange behavior, it can be hard to tell whether the behavior is a sign of disaster or something that can be tackled in the morning. But how can you identify a genuine HVAC emergency from a non-emergency? If you want to avoid the cost of HVAC emergency repair services, keep this list in mind.

Emergency HVAC Problems

Here are the issues that should have you speed-dialing your local emergency HVAC repair company.

Strange Smells

It’s helpful to start with one of the most unpleasant problems: horrible smells coming from your AC vents. First, it’s important to identify where the smells are coming from to ensure your HVAC system is indeed the source of the odor.

The first smell that indicates trouble is gas. This one could be coming from a stove or other gas appliance, so check to make sure the source is the air conditioning system before you call for emergency HVAC services.

You may also notice burning smells or even smoke. These are serious problems that can indicate a fire in the system. If you do suspect a fire, call the fire department immediately and exit your home.

If the smell is mild and disappears quickly after the system kicks on, it could mean the heater is just warming up dust that’s accumulated in the vents. This is not a big deal, and the smell will disappear. If the burning smell has an oddly metallic tinge, it could be coming from the wiring. This issue needs to be remedied by a professional.

Odd Sounds

Any intense squeaking, grinding, or banging sounds you hear could be a precursor to a system failure. Belts and pulleys, motors, furnace combustion chambers, and other such parts need regular maintenance to perform optimally. Once they get worn, they make unpleasant noises.

When you hear these sounds, turn the system off and contact an emergency HVAC service. The solution can be as simple as lubricating some parts, though the system may need more serious repairs, such as part replacement.

Short Cycling

This is when the system turns on and off rapidly. The result is rapid wear on the rest of the parts and premature failure.

Non-Emergency HVAC Problems

These problems will have to be addressed, but you don’t need to panic. Regular maintenance can catch many of these issues before they happen.

Humidity Fluctuation

Moisture accumulation can lead to mold and bacteria growth over time. However, it’s not going to ruin anything overnight.

Temperature Fluctuation

If you find that the system is having trouble keeping a consistent temperature, you may need to change out the filter or reset the thermostat.

Decreased Airflow

Always check the filter first because this is a simple fix. If it is the fan motor, it’s still not emergent but should be addressed sooner rather than later.

Turn to Steadfast Heating & Air for HVAC Emergency Repairs

When your HVAC system has a genuine emergency, where can you turn? The experts at Steadfast Heating & Air are standing by. Whether your whole system must be replaced or you’re simply in need of some basic repairs, you can trust our trained techs to take care of you. Contact Steadfast Heating & Air right away.