
The right static pressure is important to achieving a quality clean in residential air ducts. Air duct cleaning relies on powerful suction or negative air to help loosen debris and remove buildup that is affecting your health. Professional air duct cleaning should completely remove debris from the ductwork in order to provide any benefits. Using the right units with the right static pressure will save the ductwork from damage or loosening fragile parts. Let’s take a deep dive into static pressure and how it impacts debris removal from air ducts.
What Is Static Pressure?
The force exerted by a fluid when it is at rest is static pressure. It is often measured as force per unit area, pounds per square inch, or inches of water column. When it comes to HVAC cleaning, static pressure represents the resistance the air encounters as it is pushed through the ductwork. High static pressure could be damaging to your filters, ductwork, and other mechanics. If a cleaner utilizes the wrong system for your sized ductwork, it could lead to a major disaster.
Portable Negative Air Vs. Truck-Mounted Systems
There are a few factors that set these two systems apart, but one of the major ones is suction power. Duct cleaning trucks have vacuum systems that have significantly greater negative air than portable options. However, the size of the suction hose and the debris retention can impact the quality of the cleaning you receive.
Portable systems collect the debris inside the unit and require a shorter hose. This can be beneficial for smaller duct systems so that the debris doesn’t get stuck in the hose weaving through your entire house. Once this long hose is removed from your ductwork, some debris could be dropped throughout the home.
Portable systems are also helpful for duct cleaning in apartments or smaller spaces. The hose from a truck-mounted system may not be able to reach or get into small ductwork without letting debris out of the hose, dirtying your home, and defeating the purpose of a professional cleaning.

Does One Option Provide A Better Clean?
Depending on the model of your portable air duct cleaner, it may have a higher suction pressure than mounted truck options. As more technological advancements come out in the world of HVAC, upgrading your systems could help you provide a higher quality of air duct cleaning. Depending on the size of the home, portable systems are usually more convenient and easier to maneuver through a home. Since the debris doesn’t have to travel all through the home to be removed, it can limit the risk of any getting pumped back into the ductwork.
Are New Portable Models More Powerful?
Our team has been using the TurboMax 3, which is not only easy to transport, but also has a powerful static pressure and suction. It has 3500 CFM of air flow with a 6.3” static pressure. This negative air portable machine builds on the positives of past models, with added power. This machine works well for residential and commercial properties because of its advanced filtration system. This is a prime example of how newer portable options may provide a better clean than truck mounting systems.
Air Duct Cleaning From Our Professionals
Pathogens, dust, and dander can build up in your home faster than you might believe, which is why frequent air duct cleaning is crucial to the health of your home. No matter what HVAC system you have, scheduling a professional cleaning can make the home more comfortable and safe, especially for those who experience allergies.
Clear Air Co. specializes in air duct cleaning, but also offers dryer vent cleaning services to help keep the entire home clean. We often use portable air duct cleaners and have seen the power they can provide. Our company has seen the effect that removing debris can have on our health. Asthma, allergies, and respiratory issues are worsened by the excessive buildup is present in your duct work. Our mission is to improve homes, businesses and provide you with an affordable service. Reach out to us to schedule your cleaning appointment today.
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