Is Air Duct Cleaning a Scam? Is It Worth the Money? (2024)

Is duct cleaning worth it?

Generally, duct cleaning is not worth the money except for a few rare and extenuating circ*mstances, such as:

• Substantial mold is visibly growing in your ducts
• Vermin or rodents have infested your vents
• Ducts are clogged to the point that debris and dust particles are being released into your home

According to the EPA, duct cleaning services have never actually shown to prevent health problems. Additionally, studies do not demonstrate that dirty air ducts contribute to increased dust levels in homes. There’s also little evidence that cleaning your ducts will have an impact on the efficiency of your HVAC system or help reduce your electric bills.

So, is duct cleaning worth it? The answer is no (most of the time).

When might duct cleaning be a scam?

Be cautious of advertisem*nts promoting low-cost whole-system specials. Deals like this often cover only the primary duct system, which means:

• Superficial cleaning – Only the visible dust, dirt, and debris from ducts and vent covers are removed
• Neglected areas – Particulate matter, moisture, and mold growth in return air ducts and other internal duct work remain unchecked
• Hidden costs – Homeowners may face additional fees for cleaning the blower, filters, furnace elements, and more

To ensure the services improve air quality significantly, it’s essential to request quotes only from the most reputable air duct cleaning companies in your area.

Most people rarely give air duct cleaning a second thought. However, even if they appear pretty clean on the outside, ducts can easily start collecting dust, debris, insects, mold, and even larger pests like rodents. Dirty ducts are not only a health risk; they can also clog up your vents. This makes your HVAC or forced air systems less efficient at heating and cooling your home.

Want to learn more about the pros and cons of duct cleaning and whether it’s a worthwhile investment? We’ll cover everything you need to know in this quick guide.

What is duct cleaning?

Air duct cleaning removes dust, debris, and other contaminants from your HVAC equipment to improve airflow and indoor air quality. The process involves thoroughly cleaning duct surfaces, coil components, and the blower compartment, typically using a special vacuum cleaner to ensure a comprehensive clean.

How does air duct cleaning work?

The specialized vacuum pulls air through the system, and various brushes, air whips, and compressed air nozzles are inserted into your ducts to remove unseen dirt and pollutants lurking on the interior surfaces. Once loosened, the debris is sucked through the vacuum system for safe removal.

Can I do my own duct cleaning?

It’s not recommended without specialized knowledge and experience. Because most HVAC solutions have a complex array of air ducts, cleaning is a job that should typically only be performed by a NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) trained professional.

How much does duct cleaning cost?

The exact air duct cleaning cost varies based on several factors:

• System size
• Contamination level
• Ductwork type
• Crew size required

For a ballpark figure, the average cost of air duct cleaning typically ranges from $450 to $1,000, depending on the specifics of your system.

When to schedule an air duct cleaning

As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, it’s uncommon for a homeowner to need to schedule air duct cleaning services, but here are a few telltale signs that it’s time to look into professional duct cleaning services:

• Musty or unpleasant odors when your system is running
• Worsening allergy or asthma symptoms in you or one of your family members
• Reduced airflow, visible dust, or other debris around vent covers
• Evidence of mold growth or pest infestations in or around your ductwork
• Recent home renovations or construction work that has caused a dust buildup

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