# Is Duct Cleaning on the Agenda? Your Contractor Will Use These Tools > If you're planning to schedule duct cleaning in your home, use this guide to duct cleaning tools to help you select a reputable contractor. ![duct cleaning, Holliston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ducts.jpg "ducts")Homeowners planning to schedule [duct cleaning](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/stuff-in-the-ductwork.html) are wise to carefully select the technician with whom they’ll work. ![duct cleaning, Holliston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ducts.jpg "ducts") The expertise and training the technician holds determines the quality of the work. When choosing a duct cleaning contractor, ask about the tools employed in the service and whether the contractor holds National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) membership. ### Duct cleaning tools Reputable duct cleaners generally employ four primary tools to remove dirt and the like from ductwork. The selection often depends on the severity of [dirt buildup in the ducts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/professional-duct-cleaning.html) and the duct type and configuration. - **Air washing** – This device moves air at a higher pressure through the ductwork to dislodge debris and dirt. Your technician may choose to use a skipper line moving forward or in reverse, or a blow gun. - **Air whipping** – This device offers a higher-quality cleaning over air washing, as it agitates dirt and debris located on ducts using a whipping action. Using either a single whip, three whips or eight whips, these devices use high-pressure air to safely clean ducts. - **Brushing** – While air whipping and air washing employ tools that never actually touch ductwork, brushing devices do make contact with ductwork. Because of this contact, most experts believe that duct cleaning brushes get better results. Manual brushes and cable systems powered by drills and electric brushes should be used with caution in delicate flexible ducts or ducts lined with fiberglass. - **Vacuuming** – Also offering improved results over air whipping or washing, vacuum devices make contact with ducts to firmly dislodge debris and dirt. Most experts use vacuums with [high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/hepa-filtration-can-boost-indoor-air-quality.html) to permanently capture the smallest particles, as HEPA filtration offers the highest-quality particle capturing capabilities over non-HEPA vacuum systems. ### NADCA membership Your duct cleaner should hold NADCA membership, as it’s the only reputable organization endorsed across the HVAC and ductwork industry. NADCA promotes uniform cleaning standards and ensures that members employ the most effective tools that won’t damage ducts or worsen air quality. [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html) provides HVAC services to the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts. Give us call today to schedule duct cleaning. *Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://Shutterstock.com)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/duct-cleaning-contractor-tools.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/duct-cleaning-contractor-tools.html)