HVAC

Air Duct Cleaning Cost: In 2026

Estimate air duct cleaning cost — with the free HVAC calculator.

Dusty ducts recirculate dust, dander and allergens every time the system runs. Cleaning them is cheaper than you think — and sometimes not needed at all. Here's the real 2026 cost.

THE SHORT ANSWER

The short answer

Air duct cleaning runs $150–$800 in 2026 (average $389). Most homes pay $270–$509. Duct cleaning runs $30–$50 per supply vent or $0.15–$0.45 per sq ft. NADCA-recommended full cleaning runs $450–$1,000.

01

What it costs

A full duct cleaning runs $150–$800, averaging $389. Most companies charge per vent ($30–$50 each) or per sq ft ($0.15–$0.45). A thorough NADCA-style cleaning with dryer vent runs $450–$1,000. DIY kits run $50–$150.

  • Full cleaning: $150–$800
  • Average: $389
  • Per vent: $30–$50
  • Per sq ft: $0.15–$0.45
02

Do you actually need it?

The EPA recommends duct cleaning only with visible mold, vermin, excessive dust, or after a renovation. It's not a routine maintenance item. If you don't see a problem, save the $400 — change the filter instead.

03

Try the HVAC calculator

Enter the system size and labor to estimate the project.

TRY THE TOOL

JOB INPUTS

Enter your numbers

Loading saved values

Heat pump, furnace or AC unit price

$
Heat pump, furnace or AC unit price

Labor to install and connect the unit

$
Labor to install and connect the unit

Ductwork, piping, removal or permits

$
Ductwork, piping, removal or permits
Results update automatically
CALCULATED RESULTUSD
Total replacement cost$8,500.00
Unit$6,500.00
Installation$1,200.00
Extras$800.00
Total cost$8,500.00
FORMULA USED$6,500.00 + $1,200.00 + $800.00 = $8,500.00
NEXT STEP

Turn the checklist into real job numbers.

Open contractor tools