If you have a ducted central heating or cooling system, a gradual accumulation of dust and debris within the duct system is typical over time. With such a diverse pool of available information, it can be challenging to identify expected air duct cleaning costs for your particular system type and size.
I frequently discuss the importance of air duct cleaning with my clients and note the potential benefits to indoor air quality, especially for anyone in the home suffering from allergies or respiratory issues. Air duct cleaning is a good idea when excessive dust and debris are visible on the duct and migrating into your home in the airstream. Professional air duct cleaning isn’t always necessary, and an alternative to cleaning air ducts might be a better option for your specific situation. If your air ducts are relatively clean, you might benefit from simply cleaning your heating and air conditioning registers.
If you’re unsure if duct cleaning suits your system, consult with one of the top HVAC contractors in your area for advice.
How Much Does It Cost for Air Duct Cleaning?
Air duct cleaning costs vary based on several factors, but the national average is around $500. Typically, homeowners can expect to spend between $270 and $1,000 for air duct cleaning.
| AIR DUCT CLEANING COST | |
| Average Cost | $500 |
| Highest Cost | $1,000 |
| Lowest Cost | $270 |
How Do Costs Differ By Square Footage?
Air duct cleaning costs might vary by home square footage, so homeowners with larger homes could incur a higher cost of air duct cleaning. On average, we found that air duct cleaning companies charge between $0.15 and $0.30 per square foot.
| HOME SIZE | COST |
| 1,200 square feet | $180 – $360 |
| 1,500 square feet | $225 – $450 |
| 2,000 square feet | $300 – $600 |
| 2,500 square feet | $375 – $750 |
| 3,000 square feet | $450 – $900 |
How Does the Number of Vents Affect Air Duct Cleaning Pricing?
Some duct cleaning services determine air duct cleaning costs based on the number of supply vents (the ones that blow air into your home). Prices vary, but typically between $25 and $50 per vent – the average price is $35. Using this method for calculating air duct cleaning costs, you can find the average price to expect by multiplying the total number of supply vents inside your home by $35.
| NUMBER OF VENTS | COST |
| 6 | $150 – $300 |
| 10 | $250 – $500 |
| 14 | $350 – $700 |
| 18 | $450 – $900 |
Which Factors Impact Air Duct Cleaning Cost Estimates?
Above, we’ve outlined the typically expected air duct cleaning costs, but certain factors can result in additional fees. The accessibility of air duct systems and vents is a consideration, as extra time or workforce requirements can increase pricing. The construction of your ductwork system can also impact cost estimates. Certain duct system materials require specialized cleaning methods that require additional time and attention to detail.
Environmental factors and contaminants can also affect air duct cleaning costs. Rodent damage to or droppings within the duct system may require additional repairs, pest control charges, and sanitization expenses. Identifying microbial or mold growth within ductwork can require independent lab testing and, in some cases, professional remediation for removal. Should water or evidence of moisture buildup be observed within or around air ducts or vents, action is necessary to prevent potential property damage and health concerns.
Accessibility
The locations and accessibility of your ductwork system and vents may influence air duct cleaning costs. Longer duct runs with remote blowers may require specialized cleaning equipment, and vents high on walls or ceilings may require specialty ladders and additional workers for safety.
Sometimes supply vents are sealed into place on walls or ceilings with caulking for aesthetic purposes. When this is the case, breaking the seal to remove vents without damaging paint or finished surfaces can be slow and tedious. Air duct cleaning costs can also be higher if the company needs to move or make provisions to protect furniture, electronics, or other valuables, restricting necessary access to perform thorough cleaning.
Ductwork Construction
The materials that make up your ductwork system can also impact air duct cleaning costs. The actual duct system may be galvanized metal, flexible duct, or fiberglass duct board, and rigid ducts may be internally insulated with fiberglass or foam. According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), a professional air duct cleaning company may utilize various tools and supporting devices based on the type of duct surface. I always caution my clients with flexible duct systems to specifically ask because not all duct cleaning services possess the specialized equipment required to clean flex ducts.
Rodent Damage
Depending on your surroundings and home construction, your ductwork system may be susceptible to rodent infestation. As a professional HVAC technician in Southern Arizona, I’ve spent thousands of hours above ceilings in attics and beneath homes in crawl spaces, helping homeowners address HVAC system and ductwork system damage from rodents. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), reducing exposure to biological pollutants such as rodent droppings can positively impact indoor air quality.
In addition to pest control and sanitation expenses, you may encounter unexpected costs related to repairing and sealing the duct system before cleaning is possible. Pricing varies depending on the level of contamination.
Microbial or Mold Growth
Improperly sized ductwork, poorly performing air conditioning systems, inadequate insulation, and ventilation issues are some possible contributing factors to mildew or microbial growth within duct systems. The EPA notes that substance identification as mold is only possible with a laboratory analysis for confirmation, which can cost approximately $50 on average.
Excessive microbial growth or visible mold within your system may also impact air duct cleaning costs by requiring more extensive cleaning and sanitation practices, and mold remediation costs typically range from $500 to $2,000.
Moisture
Water or moisture within or around the outside of ductwork systems is not a regular occurrence. I always tell my clients to stop operating their air conditioning and heating systems and contact a professional at the first signs of moisture, mildew, or musty odors. Water within air ducts typically indicates an HVAC system operation issue or inadequate sealing.
If your ductwork system is dry inside, but evidence of moisture exists outside the ductwork and surrounding areas, learn how to stop condensation on air ducts to prevent potential damage and indoor air quality concerns.
Professional vs. DIY Air Duct Cleaning
Handy homeowners frequently ask me if DIY duct cleaning is an excellent idea to help reduce air duct cleaning costs. While light cleaning is typically possible with standard household tools and cleaning supplies, the layout of many duct systems requires professional equipment and experience to remove all contaminants properly. If you’re currently on the fence about calling a professional versus going DIY, the experts at Today’s Homeowner have what you need to know about cleaning air ducts.
As an experienced HVAC technician and avid DIY enthusiast, I always recommend (and personally practice) using a professional air duct cleaning company with specialized equipment.
Doing Air Duct Cleaning Yourself
The main challenge associated with DIY air duct cleaning is that most ductwork systems span for lengths well beyond the reach of standard household tools – vacuums, brushes, etc. which typically limits the effective cleaning distance to an average of 6 to 10 feet from each vent opening, making sediment buildup beyond this reach impossible to remove independently.
Light spot-cleaning within reach is a relatively simple process. Air vents (supply registers or return/transfer grilles) commonly feature exposed mounting screws, which are removable with a standard screw or drill driver. Be sure to secure vents high on walls or ceilings when removing mounting screws to prevent them from falling. Many registers and grilles feature metal construction with sharp edges that can cause property damage or personal injury when they fall from high elevations. Once the duct is accessible, visible sediment and contaminants removal is possible using various tools such as a shop vacuum, extension hose, and soft bristle brush.
Dryer vent cleaning is possible using the same method, but a long brush with an extension is often necessary. Using Everbilt’s Drill-Powered Dryer Vent Cleaning Brush Kit is one way to simplify this job.
The best way to keep your air conditioner and HVAC ducts clean is to clean or replace your whole-house air filters regularly to prevent dust buildup and pollutants from entering your ventilation system.
Be careful when performing DIY duct cleaning! Only attempt to clean flexible ductwork or any fibrous interior duct surface with proper specialized tools and equipment. Avoid using chemical-based cleaners that could damage the duct or negatively impact indoor air quality.
Hiring a Professional for Air Duct Cleaning
Calling a professional is a significant first step towards improved indoor air quality, but what’s next? First, check out some things you should know about air duct cleaning, and then follow this easy step-by-step list to get started:
- Find local experts near you: I encourage my clients to search for duct cleaning companies that follow NADCA guidelines.
- Get multiple quotes: Receive at least 3-5 proposals to compare. Take note of how each company bases labor costs – HVAC system size, number of vents, size of your home, etc.
- Do some homework: Research prospective air duct cleaning companies online to verify they’re well established and have demonstrated a track record of excellent service to help avoid air duct cleaning service scams.
- Verify licensing: Some states require special air duct cleaning services licensing. Review the rules for your location and make sure the company you hire is compliant.
- Tag along: On cleaning day, follow the workers around (unless this poses a safety issue) and be inquisitive. Ask for specifics about how the equipment works, to see sediment removed, before and after pictures, etc.
So, Is Air Duct Cleaning Worth It?
Considering the associated expenses and benefits, I advise my clients that the average air duct cleaning cost of around $500 is an excellent investment when needed. Indoor air quality improvements can make an immediate difference for anyone suffering from allergies or respiratory issues, and keeping your HVAC system air handler clean can improve energy efficiency and extend the service life of your comfort system.
Plus, the more you keep your ducts clean and well-maintained, the less likely you are to need to fork out higher costs for full air duct replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Duct Cleaning
How often should you clean your air ducts?
Several factors can impact the best frequency for your home and duct system. Some things that lead to more frequent cleaning needs include heavy foot traffic in and out of the home, surrounding landscaping, number of indoor pets, indoor smoking or candle burning, remodeling projects, and water damage.
Does cleaning air ducts save money?
It can! When duct systems require cleaning, there’s likely a sediment buildup on your HVAC system’s indoor coil. Having both thoroughly cleaned improves airflow performance, potentially increasing energy efficiency and reducing air conditioning system failures.
What are the benefits of cleaning air ducts?
Air duct cleaning can improve indoor air quality by removing allergens and other contaminants from the indoor air stream. Those with allergies or respiratory issues may notice substantial improvements. Clean air duct systems help keep your HVAC system components free of sediment so your system operates at peak performance and keeps you comfortable for years.
Should I clean my air ducts myself?
While motivated homeowners can tackle light duct cleaning within a short distance of the vent openings, proper cleaning of the entire duct system typically requires specialized equipment and experience. Additionally, different types of ductwork systems can require unique approaches to cleaning. In most cases, it’s
