Dust, mold, and other contaminants inevitably build up inside ductwork over time, degrading indoor air quality and HVAC performance. Regular duct cleaning in Ottawa can help restore airflow and efficiency while removing contaminants that cause health issues. Role of Air Filters in Duct Cleaning. Air filters play an important role before, during, and after duct cleaning projects in Ottawa. Before cleaning:
- Clogged or dirty filters allow more particles to accumulate inside ducts, so replace or clean filters beforehand.
- Filters help trap debris dislodged during the cleaning process, so start with clear filters.
During duct cleaning:
- Professionals may temporarily remove or bypass filters to ensure debris is removed from ducts, not trapped at the filter.
After duct cleaning:
- New or cleaned filters help maintain clean ducts by catching particles that remain after the process.
- Filters aid in verifying the effectiveness of the duct cleaning project.
Higher Quality Filters Recommended
While standard filters help, using higher MERV rated filters improves the results of duct cleaning in Ottawa. Options include:
- MERV 8-11 filters – Good for trapping larger particles but less effective on finer particles and allergens.
- MERV 12-13 filters – More effective at removing fine dust, pollen and mold. Recommended after duct cleaning.
- Electronic Air Cleaners – Provide the highest level of filtration, removing 99% of airborne contaminants including viruses.
Schedule Filter Changes regularly
To ensure ducts stay clean after servicing, schedule filter changes:
- Every 1-3 months for standard filters used all year
- Every 3-6 months for high efficiency filters
Additionally, professionals may recommend:
- Sealant treatments to secure dust trap openings and limit leaks after cleaning.
- Coil treatments to remove contaminants from your air handler or condensing unit coils that can recontaminate ducts.
- Ultraviolet light treatments to help sanitize interior duct surfaces and kill microbes not removed by vacuuming.
In conclusion, using the appropriate air filters before, during and after duct cleaning in Ottawa helps maximize the benefits for your family’s health and HVAC system performance. Reputable companies will make recommendations tailored to your unique situation .