When your ventilation system is in need of a thorough cleaning, the cost can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of your ductwork. Many factors influence duct cleaning prices, but none as significantly as the total square footage and number of vents in your duct system. The larger and more elaborate the ductwork, the more time-consuming and expensive the job will be.
Determining the Size of Your Duct System
To get an accurate duct cleaning estimate, contractors will first need to determine the actual square footage of your ducts. There are two main ways this is done:
Manual Measurement
The technician will physically measure the width, length and height of all your visible ductwork runs. This includes supply ducts, return ducts and the main trunk lines. Measurements are then multiplied together to calculate the total square footage.
Computerized Scan
Some companies use a duct scanning camera system to digitally map out your entire duct network. An internal camera is inserted into the vents and maneuvered to generate a 3D rendering of your ventilation system. This method provides the most precise measurement of your duct size.
The number of supply registers, return grilles and air vents in your home is also an important factor in determining duct cleaning costs. Contractors will want to get an accurate vent count before providing a final estimate.
How Duct Size Affects Cleaning Prices
Once the total square footage and vent count for your duct system is established, contractors can determine an appropriate cleaning price based on the following:
- Larger Ductwork = Higher Costs
The larger the square footage of your ducts, the more time it will take technicians to maneuver cleaning equipment through them and thoroughly vacuum out collected dirt and debris. So in general, the cost per square foot increases as duct size decreases. - More Vents = Higher Prices
Each additional supply register and return grille that needs to be accessed and cleaned translates to extra labor hours and equipment usage. Contractors typically charge a per vent fee that gets factored into the overall price. - Multi-Story Layouts are More Expensive
When duct runs span across multiple floors, technicians need to carry heavy machines up and down stairs or ladders. This significantly increases the time and difficulty of the job, driving up costs. - Complex Branching Duct Configurations Cost More
The more branches, splits and turns your duct layout has, the harder it is for technicians to fully clean – translating to higher prices.
In summary, the square footage and configuration of your duct system is the primary determinant of accurate duct cleaning estimates. Larger, more complex ventilation layouts require increased labor, materials and equipment – representing higher costs to complete the job thoroughly.