How much does air duct cleaning cost?
Air duct cleaning means cleaning the supply and return ducts of your heating and cooling system. A proper job uses strong vacuum equipment and brushes, and it takes most of a morning or longer. The price mostly depends on how big your home is and how many vents and systems you have.
Air duct cleaning prices at a glance
| Job | Newer pro | Experienced pro |
|---|---|---|
| Duct cleaning, smaller home | $275 | $575 |
| Duct cleaning, average home | $370 | $765 |
| Duct cleaning, large home or 2 systems | $550 | $1130 |
Labor and basic supplies. Big parts or appliances you buy yourself are extra. Prices run higher in big cities.
Gear that helps
As an Amazon Associate, RuffQuote earns from qualifying purchases. It doesn't change your price.
Looking for HVAC techs near you…
What's usually included
- Supply and return ducts cleaned with a strong vacuum and brushes or air whips
- Vent covers and return grilles removed and washed
- Return plenum and accessible parts of the blower area cleaned
- Floors and furniture protected around each vent
- Before and after photos or a camera look inside the ducts, from many companies
What changes the price
- Home size and vent count. More vents and longer ducts take more time.
- Number of systems. Each system has its own ductwork to clean.
- Access. Ducts in tight attics or crawl spaces are slower to reach.
- Extras. Cleaning the blower and coil, sealing ducts, or treating mold are usually priced separately.
Do it yourself or hire a pro?
You can vacuum the vent covers and the first foot or so of duct, and you should keep changing your filter. Cleaning the full duct system needs truck-mounted or portable negative air equipment that homeowners do not have. If there is mold, hire a pro and fix the moisture problem first.
Common questions
How often should air ducts be cleaned?
There is no set schedule for most homes. It makes sense after a renovation, if there is visible mold or pests, or if dust blows out of the vents. Otherwise, regular filter changes do most of the work.
Does duct cleaning improve air quality or lower bills?
The EPA says duct cleaning has not been shown to prevent health problems. It can help if the ducts are truly dirty, but it is not a fix for allergies or high bills on its own.
How do I find a good duct cleaning company?
Look for a company that does a full system clean, not just the vents, and gives a written price ahead of time. Certification from NADCA, the duct cleaning trade group, is one sign they follow industry standards.
Got a quote for air duct cleaning?
Enter your job details and see if the price is fair. HVAC techs can build a price list too.