How Much Does Air Duct Cleaning Cost?

Published 12/19/2024

Many homeowners wonder how much air duct cleaning would cost them, and it generally varies depending on several factors. A typical price range for an average-sized home is $450 - $1,000. This data is based on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which offers research on indoor air quality. They emphasize hiring certified professionals like Mr. Duct who follow industry standards set by NADCA. Below are some things to consider when assessing residential air duct cleaning costs:

Air Duct Cleaning Cost Factors

There are several factors that homeowners should know when assessing the cost of residential air duct cleaning.

Type of Ductwork:  Some types like flexible ducts require specialized equipment to avoid damage. These ducts are more fragile compared to rigid metal ducts.

HVAC System Size: Another important factor for air duct cleaning costs because the more components that exist in your home, the more work laborers need to perform.

Ductwork Accessibility: This is crucial because if your home's ducts are hard to reach, it will require additional effort and tools. Technicians may need to disassemble system parts, which usually leads to additional labor costs.

Level of Contamination:  One of the most important cost factors for air duct cleaning is the level of contamination. Standard services include dust and debris, but excessive accumulation and contaminants like mold, mildew, and pests will add to the total cost because it requires more cleaning time.

Environmental Factors:  Often overlooked factor for air duct cleaning costs, is your home environment. Smoking, homes with pets, and recent renovations can introduce contaminants that require deeper air duct cleaning.

Number of Vents:  The more vents you have in your home, the more labor it takes to clean. The same is true for larger homes with higher square footage.

System Configuration:  The way your HVAC system is configured is another important factor that needs to be considered. More complex duct layouts in multi-story homes often require more labor to clean.

Air Duct Cleaning Costs for Residential Homes

Americans spend much of their lives indoors, often with windows closed, especially in Illinois. This results in recirculated air passing through the home 5-7 times daily. Over time, allergens, dust, and mold can accumulate in air ducts despite regular filter changes. The EPA and NADCA recommend residential air duct cleaning every 3-5 years to maintain indoor air quality.

At Mr. Duct, a complete air duct cleaning service for residential homes starts at $395. Our technicians will inspect your system, assess the configuration, and provide a transparent cost estimate.

Air Duct Cleaning Additional Costs

When budgeting for residential air duct cleaning, keep in mind that the advertised price often reflects standard cleaning. Additional services required can contribute to an increase in total cost. One is mold contamination. Mold in air vents and ducts can lead to health risks such as respiratory issues and allergies. Sometimes, droppings from pests can show up in your HVAC system, which will require additional removal services before cleaning can begin. Other services needed may include dryer vent cleaning, air duct coating, and duct repairs.

Air Duct Cleaning Scams

Unfortunately, the residential air duct cleaning industry is riddled with scams offering cheap deals such as $99 specials. These companies often leave homeowners with incomplete services or inflated bills. The EPA and NADCA have issued warnings and provided guidelines to help consumers avoid these fraudulent practices. Some red flags to watch for include unrealistically low prices, pressure to act immediately, no references or reviews, and no written estimates. Learn more in our blog, "How to Avoid Dirty Air Duct Cleaners."

What About Commercial HVAC Systems?

Commercial HVAC systems are the backbone of many businesses, maintaining comfortable and healthy indoor environments for employees, customers, and visitors. Unlike residential systems, commercial HVAC systems are larger, more complex, and require specialized knowledge to clean and maintain. Regular cleaning of these HVAC systems not only improves indoor air quality but also ensures energy efficiency, lower operating costs, and expands the lifespan of expensive equipment. Costs for commercial air duct cleaning can vary based on the size and complexity of the system, but with experience spanning over 700 buildings, Mr. Duct is a trusted choice for reliable and professional service. Learn more about our tailored commercial air duct cleaning solutions.

Why Choose Mr. Duct

With Mr. Duct, you can trust that we’ll deliver exceptional service and peace of mind for your home or business. Our technicians are NADCA-certified and follow strict industry standards. With an A+ BBB rating and recognition as an Angi Super Service Award-winner, we are committed to integrity and clear communication. Unlike companies that rely on low-cost gimmicks and hidden fees, we offer transparent pricing. Contact Mr. Duct today, or call 1-800-501-4157 for more information and to schedule service.