Clean air ducts help your HVAC system run better and your indoor air stay healthier, but how much should you pay for it? This guide covers everything you need to know about air duct cleaning costs, from average pricing to hidden fees to what’s actually worth paying for.
Average Cost of Air Duct Cleaning
The average cost of air duct cleaning services ranges from $300 to $500 for a typical single-family home. Pricing usually depends on the size of your home and the number of vents. Some companies charge a flat rate, while others charge per vent, typically $25 to $50 per vent.
Expect to pay more if you have:
- A larger home
- Multiple HVAC systems
- Hard-to-reach ductwork
Be cautious of ultra-low offers under $100. These are often bait-and-switch tactics that lead to upselling once they’re inside your home.
Cost Factors That Affect Air Duct Cleaning Prices
1. Home Size
Larger homes have more ductwork, more vents, and typically more than one HVAC system. Cleaning a 3,000+ sq ft home will cost more than a smaller 1,200 sq ft home simply due to the increased labor and time involved. More square footage = more ducts to clean.
2. Number of Vents
Many companies base their pricing on the number of supply and return vents in your home. The more vents you have, the higher the total cost, especially if the company charges per vent. Be sure to count all vents to get an accurate quote.
3. HVAC System Complexity
Homes with multiple HVAC units, zones, or custom layouts (like basements, attics, or additions) take longer to clean and require more equipment. Cleaning two systems will usually cost double what a single-system home would pay.
4. Accessibility
If your ductwork runs through tight crawl spaces, high ceilings, or hard-to-reach areas, expect to pay more. Jobs that are physically harder or require specialized equipment often come with added labor charges.
5. Condition of the Ducts
Heavily contaminated ducts like those with mold, excessive dust, pet hair, or debris take longer to clean. If your ducts haven’t been cleaned in over a decade, the job could require extra time, tools, or sanitizing agents, all of which add to the cost.
6. Add-On Services
Some companies offer additional services during a duct cleaning visit. These can increase the total cost:
- Dryer vent cleaning
- Mold remediation or antimicrobial treatments
- Duct sealing or insulation
- HVAC coil cleaning
6 Signs You Need Air Duct Cleaning
Not every home needs routine air duct cleaning, but certain signs can indicate it’s time to schedule a professional service. Here’s what to look for:
1. Visible Dust or Debris Coming from Vents
If you see dust blowing out of your vents when the HVAC system turns on, your ducts are likely dirty. You shouldn’t see particles floating out into your home.
2. Mold Growth Inside Ducts or HVAC Components
Mold can grow in ducts, especially in humid climates or homes with past water damage. If you see mold around vent covers or smell a musty odor when the HVAC runs, get your system inspected immediately.
3. Worsening Allergies or Respiratory Issues
Excess dust, pollen, pet dander, or mold spores circulating through your ducts can aggravate asthma or allergy symptoms. Clean ducts help improve indoor air quality.
4. Recent Renovations or Construction Work
Remodeling kicks up a lot of dust and debris that can easily settle in your ductwork. Even if the work wasn’t near the vents, drywall dust travels and can clog your system.
5. Unusually High Energy Bills
If your HVAC system is working harder to push air through clogged ducts, your energy costs can go up. Cleaning out the buildup can improve airflow and efficiency.
6. You Haven’t Cleaned Them in 5+ Years
Most experts recommend cleaning ducts every 3–5 years. If it’s been longer or if you’re unsure if it’s ever been done, it may be time to schedule an inspection.
DIY vs. Professional Air Duct Cleaning
Trying to clean your own air ducts might seem like a good way to save money, but there’s a big difference between what you can do with a vacuum and what professionals do with specialized equipment.
If you go the DIY route, you can remove and clean vent covers, vacuum visible dust, and wipe down grilles. That helps with surface buildup, but it doesn’t reach deep into the ducts or clean the entire system. Most household vacuums don’t have the suction power or attachments needed to properly clean duct interiors. You also risk damaging ducts if you use the wrong tools or methods.
Professionals use high-powered vacuums, rotating brushes, and negative pressure systems to thoroughly clean inside the ducts (something DIY methods can’t replicate). They also inspect the entire system, including your blower motor, evaporator coil, and air handler. If you want a real clean, not just surface dust removal, it’s just better to hire a professional.
How to Get an Accurate Quote for Air Duct Cleaning in Washington State
Prices can vary a lot between companies, so don’t settle for vague estimates. Here’s how to get a clear, accurate quote that reflects your home and needs:
1. Know What You Have
Before you call around, count your vents and returns. Know the size of your home (square footage) and whether you have more than one HVAC system. These are the main factors that affect your cost.
2. Ask the Right Questions
When calling for quotes, ask:
- Is pricing flat-rate or per vent?
- What exactly is included in the quote?
- Are there any extra charges (for sanitizing, attic access, etc.)?
- Is the company NADCA certified?
If they dodge those questions, that’s a red flag.
3. Avoid the Bait-and-Switch
Beware of rock-bottom pricing. If someone quotes you $99 for “whole-home cleaning,” they’re likely planning to upsell once they arrive. Always ask for the full price before booking.
4. Look for Free Inspections or Estimates
Some reputable companies offer a free in-home estimate. This allows them to assess your system and provide a more accurate price. It’s also your chance to evaluate their professionalism before committing.
Get an Accurate Quote from the HVAC Experts at Sunset Air.
Worried about bait-and-switch air duct cleaners? We get it. Some companies lure you in with a cheap price, then tack on surprise fees. Sunset Air doesn’t play those games. We offer honest, transparent pricing and certified service from start to finish.
Need urgent help? Our 24/7 emergency service is here when you need it most. We also service water heaters and duct systems, and offer HVAC maintenance plans to keep your system running efficiently for years to come. We serve customers in and around Olympia, WA, including Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, Shelton, and Centralia. Call 360-565-5890 today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will cleaning my ducts help reduce my energy bill?
Yes. Clean ducts improve airflow, which helps your HVAC system run more efficiently. That can lead to lower energy bills, especially if your ducts were heavily clogged.
How much does an air duct cleaning and mold removal cost?
The cost to remove mold from an HVAC system is $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how severe the mold is and the type and size of your system. Mold removal adds cost due to specialized cleaning and antimicrobial treatments.
How often should air ducts be cleaned?
Every 3 to 5 years is recommended. You may need it more often if you have pets, allergies, recent renovations, or signs of mold.
Are these $99 air duct cleaning ads legit?
Usually not. These offers are often bait-and-switch tactics—they advertise a low price to get in the door, then upsell you with surprise fees.
What should I look for from an air duct cleaning company?
Look for clear pricing, NADCA certification, good reviews, and no pressure tactics. A reputable company will inspect your system, explain its process, and give you a full quote upfront.
