How Much Does It Cost To Clean Air Ducts In 2024?

The average cost of air duct cleaning for a residential building, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), falls between $450 and $1,000. Our research indicates that the average air duct cleaning price is $550. Some companies may offer packages as low as $200, but these cheaper options may provide less comprehensive services than higher-priced alternatives.

Air Duct Cleaning Cost	Details
Average Cost	$550
Highest Cost	$1,000
Lowest Cost	$200

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The size of your home plays a significant role in determining the AC duct cleaning cost. Based on the square footage of your home, prices typically range between $0.15 and $0.30 per square foot. This means that the larger your home, the higher the cost will be. Here’s a breakdown based on square footage:

Home Size (Square Feet)	Cost
1,000	$150 – $300
1,200	$180 – $360
1,500	$225 – $450
2,000	$300 – $600
2,500	$375 – $750
3,000	$450 – $900

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Similarly to square footage, the more vents you have, the more the air duct cleaning will cost. Expect to pay between $25 and $50 per vent.

Number of Vents	Cost
8	$200 – $400
10	$250 – $500
12	$300 – $600
14	$350 – $700
16	$400 – $800
18	$450 – $900

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The cost of cleaning your air ducts depends on the type of ductwork in your home. Fiberglass and foam board ducts are usually the least expensive to clean, while flexible ductwork requires specialized equipment, pushing vent cleaning costs higher. Rigid metal ducts are simpler to clean, making them a more cost-effective option. Different materials and designs may require specific cleaning methods and equipment, affecting the overall AC duct cleaning cost.

Several factors can complicate air duct cleaning and, subsequently, increase costs.

Level of Contamination

The extent of dirt, dust and other pollutants accumulated in your air ducts can influence air duct cleaning costs. Heavily contaminated ducts often require more extensive cleaning methods, which may involve specialized equipment and additional labor, driving up overall expenses.

Rodent and Pest Removal

Infestations of rodents or pests within your ductwork not only pose health risks but also complicate duct cleaning. Dealing with these issues involves thorough cleaning and potentially implementing pest control measures, which adds complexity and expense to the project. Typically, rodent control services range from $200 to $900, but pest control costs may escalate if the infestation is severe.

Asbestos

Discovering asbestos in your ductwork calls for immediate action to protect your family from potential health hazards. Removing or encapsulating asbestos is a crucial but costly process, typically ranging from $35 to $55 per foot of duct. While these expenses may seem high, they are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of your household.

Mold and Mildew

Dealing with mold in your air ducts involves additional expenses, as air duct cleaning alone may not eliminate all mold and mildew. Hiring a separate mold remediation company to tackle the issue typically ranges from $1,100 to $5,000, depending on the extent of the spread and damage caused.

It’s essential to note that even sanitizing the ducts, which incurs an additional cost of $75 to $150, utilizes antibacterial rather than antifungal chemicals. These chemicals may not effectively eradicate mold and could harm fiberglass ductwork. Due to the specialized chemicals and equipment required, mold remediation can be costly.

Clogged Dryer Vents

Cleaning your dryer vent is essential and should be done yearly. A clogged vent raises fire risk and makes your dryer less efficient. Some air duct cleaners may include this service for an extra $40 to $100 or you can request standalone cleaning for around $80 to $180. Prioritizing this maintenance keeps your dryer safe and efficient.

Accessibility

Ducts in hard-to-reach spots might need special tools or more work to get to, which can raise AC duct cleaning costs. Factors like tight spaces or high ceilings can make installation harder, requiring more time and resources. It’s important to consider accessibility when planning ductwork.

Labor

Labor costs play a crucial role in determining air duct cleaning expenses. Skilled technicians are essential for the proper cleaning of the ducts. Typically, labor costs range from $90 to $130 per hour. These costs can vary depending on the complexity of the installation and the time needed to complete the job.

Annual Air Conditioner Maintenance

Regular HVAC maintenance is essential for keeping your air conditioning system in peak condition. Annual servicing by a professional technician costs between $75 and $200. It helps prevent breakdowns, ensures efficient operation and prolongs the lifespan of your unit. While this is an additional expense, it can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for costly repairs.

Air Conditioner Repairs

Unexpected breakdowns or malfunctions may require repairs to your air conditioning system. The average cost is $400 for standard repairs, but prices can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the parts needed for replacement. It’s essential to address issues promptly to avoid further damage and discomfort.

Air Duct Repair or Replacement

Damaged or deteriorating air ducts may need repair or replacement during HVAC installation. Repairing leaks, sealing joints or replacing sections of ductwork can improve airflow and energy efficiency. Repairing air ducts costs between $175 to $2,000, while replacing the ductwork will come at a higher cost, between $500 and $5,600.

Visual Air Duct Inspection

Visual inspection of air ducts allows technicians to assess the condition of the ductwork and identify any issues that may require attention. This service can help detect leaks, blockages or other problems affecting HVAC performance and indoor air quality. The cost of a visual inspection varies depending on the scope of the assessment.

Video Air Duct Inspection

A professional home inspector examining your ducts typically costs $75 to $150 when conducted separately. However, many HVAC contractors do this inspection as part of the cleaning process. These inspections use video cameras to thoroughly examine the ductwork for dust buildup, debris, mold, insulation issues, damage, pests and other potential concerns.

Determining when to clean your air ducts is vital for maintaining indoor air quality and HVAC system efficiency. While the United States Environmental Protection Agency advises cleaning ducts as needed, experts generally recommend cleaning them every three to five years. Newer HVAC systems can typically go longer between cleanings, while older systems (seven years or more) should aim for cleanings every three years to ensure optimal performance.

There are two options for air duct cleaning: doing it yourself or hiring a professional. While DIY cleaning may seem like a cost-effective solution, it is important to consider the potential risks and limitations. Cleaning your air ducts requires specialized equipment and knowledge to remove contaminants effectively. Without the proper tools and expertise, you may not be able to fully clean all areas of your duct system, leaving behind hidden pollutants.

Hiring an HVAC contractor for air duct cleaning ensures the job is done thoroughly and efficiently. Professional cleaners have the necessary equipment and expertise to reach every corner of your ducts, removing all dirt, dust and contaminants. They can also identify and address any underlying issues, such as leaks or damaged ducts, contributing to poor air quality.

Maintaining clean air ducts is essential for a healthy home environment, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some practical tips to help you save money on air duct cleaning without compromising on quality or effectiveness:

• Compare prices: Get quotes from different companies.
• Ask for deals: Inquire about discounts or promotions.
• Bundle services: Combine duct cleaning with other maintenance tasks.
• Regular maintenance: Keep up with routine HVAC care to avoid future problems.
• Negotiate: Don’t hesitate to negotiate for a better price.

When selecting a professional air duct cleaner, consider the following tips to make an informed decision:

• Research: Check reviews and ratings to assess reputation.
• Certifications: Ensure they’re certified by NADCA or similar organizations.
• Experience: Choose a company with a proven track record.
• Insurance: Confirm the air duct cleaner has liability insurance.
• Transparent pricing: Request a detailed estimate upfront.
• Equipment: Ensure the cleaners use industry-standard equipment.
• Guarantees: Look for satisfaction guarantees or warranties.

To arrive at the average costs in this article, we surveyed one contractor, nine local and national cost databases and two governmental sources. All averaged figures were correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change.