Air Duct Cleaning Checklist for Technicians: Tools, Steps, and QA
Published by IAQCert | For Certified Air Duct Cleaning Technician (CADCT)
Keeping duct systems clean is not just about improving airflow; it is about delivering measurable indoor air quality results for your clients. This guide covers the essential tools, an 18-step duct cleaning sequence, and quality checks that prevent callbacks.
✅ Download the printable checklist below and explore the full certification here:
👉 Certified Air Duct Cleaning Technician (CADCT)
📄 Download the Duct Cleaning Field Checklist (PDF)
1. What You Need Before You Start
Tools and Supplies
- HEPA-filtered negative air machine with correct CFM
- Rotating brush or air whip kit, contact vacuum tools, agitation rods
- High-powered portable or truck-mounted vacuum
- Drop cloths, vent covers, poly sheeting, painter’s tape
- Access panel hardware, snips, drill, screws, foil tape, mastic
- Manometer, anemometer, or particle counter if available
- Replacement filters and filter gauge
- PPE: respirator, safety glasses, gloves, knee pads
- Phone or tablet for photo log and customer signoff
Pre-Job Confirmations
- Signed work order and defined scope
- System type and access points verified
- Power, parking, and workspace cleared
- Occupant protection plan in place
2. The 18-Step Duct Cleaning Sequence
- Walkthrough and take pre-job photos.
- Protect the workspace with drop cloths and covers.
- Isolate zones and seal unused registers.
- De-energize the system if required.
- Cut access panels as needed (code-compliant).
- Connect vacuum and seal system for negative pressure.
- Verify capture at the nearest registers.
- Agitate each branch from farthest to nearest register.
- Remove and clean registers, then reinstall.
- Clean the return side ducts.
- Protect the coil if coil cleaning is not in scope.
- Clean blower wheel, housing, and cabinet.
- Brush and vacuum plenums and trunks.
- Apply sanitation product per label, document dwell time.
- Seal all access panels and label them.
- Replace filters and record size and MERV.
- Restart system and check for airflow and noise.
- Clean work area and review results with the client.
3. Quality Control That Prevents Callbacks
- Visual: No visible debris, sealed panels, clean blower housing.
- Functional: Airflow restored to baseline or improved.
- Measured: Optional pressure or particle readings logged.
- Documentation: Before/after photos, filter specs, service notes.
4. Common Red Flags
- Damaged flex duct or fiberglass liner
- Suspected microbial growth
- Loose return leaks in attics or crawlspaces
- Signs of improper sealing or negative pressure imbalance
Whenever you find these issues, document and explain them. This builds trust and can lead to add-on work such as coil cleaning or duct sealing.
5. Client Communication Made Simple
Before work:
“We will set up negative pressure, clean each branch from the farthest register back, then seal and test. You will see labeled access panels for future maintenance.”
After work:
“Here are your before and after photos, filter details, and panel locations. Airflow has been verified and meets spec. This is your maintenance plan and filter schedule.”
6. When to Recommend Add-On Services
- Coil cleaning for residue or pressure drop issues
- Duct sealing when measurable leakage is present
- Filter upgrades for higher IAQ needs
- Sanitation only when justified by debris removal results
7. Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a standard residential job take?
Two to four hours for one system with a trained two-person crew.
Do I need to cut new access panels each time?
No. Use existing panels when possible and only cut new ones when required for full access.
What proof should I give clients?
Before/after photos, access panel map, filter data, and QA checklist.
8. Download the Printable Field Air Duct Cleaning Checklist
Keep your work consistent and documented with this one-page field form.
📄 Download the Duct Cleaning Field Checklist (PDF)
9. Become a Certified Air Duct Cleaning Technician
If you are ready to take your duct cleaning to a professional standard recognized across North America, get certified with IAQCert.
🎓 Enroll now: Certified Air Duct Cleaning Technician (CADCT)
🧾 Learn advanced procedures, QA verification, and client reporting tools.
