Most homeowners tend to group furnace filters and duct cleaning as similarly priced solutions for better indoor air quality. However, the two systems are not the same, and understanding their differences will help you avoid overspending and potential reductions in air quality. Before you book a duct cleaning service in Park City or change your filter, here is what each does.
What A Furnace Filter Actually Does
Furnace filters are positioned in the return air path. Household air is pulled back into the system through the filters. Because all household air must pass through the filter before it reaches the furnace, the filter is the first line of defense against dust, pet dander, and other household debris.
Dust and pet dander are also airborne particulates. Because of this, a furnace filter with a higher MERV rating can theoretically help reduce dust on furniture. Unfortunately, a filter treats only the air in the system and has no effect on air contaminants in the ducts.
What Duct Cleaning Actually Does
Ductwork resembles the airway system of your body. Behind the walls, ductwork has been a collection point for airborne particles that filter systems missed and for particles that entered the system before the filter was added, including construction debris, pet hair, pollen, dust from drywall, and, in some cases, mold. On each subsequent heating cycle, the particulates can be distributed throughout the home.
Professional Park City duct cleaning eliminates built-up dirt and grime at the source. Instead of spending money on filtering recirculating dirty air, the source of the debris is removed. Mountain homes experience this more frequently than other homes due to the long, continuous airflow through the HVAC system and its associated ductwork.
When Park City Duct Cleaning Makes Sense
That doesn’t mean Park City duct cleaning is never warranted. Specific conditions do warrant it:
- Mold has been observed in the ducts or on any component of the HVAC system.
- Ductwork has been infested by insects or rodents.
- Debris is visible in the air when air is being forced out of the registers.
- After extensive home renovations, or if a new home has recently been constructed
Park City homes face a unique situation due to high levels of outdoor activity, seasonal dust, and older construction that tends to harbor dirt and dust. When one of the situations described above is present, Park City duct cleaning is not a preventive expense but rather a beneficial service.
The Right Strategy for Cleaner Indoor Air
For quality air on a daily basis, the best strategy is to change your high-grade furnace filters regularly instead of getting your ducts cleaned frequently. With a real cause for concern in your ductwork, services from Park City duct cleaning would be the best course of action.
The most cost-effective strategy is to use the proper grade filter, change it regularly, and have your ducts cleaned by Park City duct cleaning when needed.