3 Crazy Things We Found in Air Ducts Colorado Springs
You’d be surprised what ends up hiding in your air ducts. As Colorado Springs homeowners, we expect to find dust, pet hair, and maybe a lost toy or two. But over the years, we’ve discovered some truly wild surprises inside local homes.
At Earth Friendly Air Duct Cleaning, we’ve seen it all. Here are three of the craziest things we’ve found in air ducts in Colorado Springs, and what they can tell you about why regular duct cleaning is so important.
1. Construction Debris from “New” Homes
You’d think brand-new homes would have spotless ductwork. Think again! One of the most common surprises we find is construction debris left behind by builders: sawdust, drywall dust, insulation, and even scraps of flooring.
We once cleaned a new build in northeast Colorado Springs and pulled out handfuls of wood chips and nails from the ducts. Not only did it block airflow, but it also left a dusty smell throughout the home.
💡 Tip: If your home was recently built or remodeled, schedule a duct cleaning before you move in. You’ll breathe much cleaner air from day one.
2. Toys, Pencils, and Pet Treats
We’ve found toy cars, LEGOs, markers, pet treats, even a missing sock or two. Kids and pets are curious, and floor vents are like little portals for their treasures.
While these finds can be funny, they can also restrict airflow and create noise when your HVAC system runs. In one home near Briargate, a single stuffed animal had partially blocked a vent for years, reducing air circulation in the living room.
💡 Tip: If you notice a vent blowing weaker air than others, there might be something lodged inside the duct.
3. A Bird’s Nest
Yes, really! Birds sometimes sneak into exterior vent openings, especially dryer vents or return ducts that aren’t properly sealed. In one home near Black Forest, we found a small bird’s nest (thankfully long abandoned) that had completely clogged a return duct.
That blockage wasn’t just hurting efficiency, it was circulating musty odors and affecting indoor air quality. Once we cleaned it out and sealed the vent cap, the air quality was restored and the airflow doubled.
💡 Tip: Always make sure your exterior vent covers are intact and free from gaps or damage.
What’s Hiding in Your Ducts?
Even if your home feels clean, your HVAC system might be holding on to years of dust, debris, or forgotten objects. The longer it stays there, the more it affects your indoor air quality, efficiency, and comfort.
A professional cleaning helps:
- Improve airflow and efficiency
- Reduce allergens and odors
- Keep your home free from hidden surprises
Residential Air Duct Cleaning in Colorado Springs, CO
At Earth Friendly Air Duct Cleaning, we take pride in helping Colorado Springs homeowners breathe cleaner, healthier air. We’re a locally owned and operated husband-and-wife team, and every job is personally handled by the owner for quality you can trust.
Whether your home is brand new or decades old, we can help uncover what’s hiding in your ducts, and make sure your system runs safely and efficiently.