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furnace filters vs. duct cleaning – what's your pick?
I've been trying to figure out if it's more worthwhile to regularly change furnace filters or just bite the bullet and get the ducts cleaned every so often. Filters seem cheaper and easier, but then again, ducts can get pretty nasty inside, you know? I've heard mixed things from friends - some swear by regular duct cleanings and others think it's a waste of money. Curious what you all do and why?
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3 replies
I'm with you on filters being cheaper and easier. Honestly, regular filter changes every 2-3 months usually keep things pretty clean. Duct cleaning's good occasionally - like after renovations or if you've had pest issues - but otherwise, filters do most of the heavy lifting.
What counts as “occasionally” in practice? Is visible mold, pest debris, or heavy renovation dust the threshold for cleaning, rather than ordinary dust buildup? I’m wary of paying for it based only on a dirty-looking vent cover, since that may not mean the ducts themselves need attention.
A dirty-looking vent cover by itself wouldn’t convince me to pay for duct cleaning. I’d want to know whether debris continues past the grille, especially inside the return plenum or visible supply branches. If it’s just surface dust, cleaning the grille and replacing the filter may be all that’s needed. For anyone checking, is there a sensible way to inspect those areas without opening up more ductwork than necessary?