Do you need an HVAC license to clean air ducts?

Author: Dr. Dana Greenfelder Jr.  |  Last update: Monday, August 4, 2025

Duct cleaning may not sound complicated, but it does require a licensed professional. The technician performing the job must have an HVAC license from the state and be certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).

Do you need a license for air duct cleaning?

Yes, you likely will need a license if you are planning on doing air duct cleaning as a business.

Is duct cleaning considered HVAC?

Having our HVAC technician check for other potential sources of indoor air pollution, such as mold or mildew growth, is a good idea. HVAC and air duct cleaning are not the same things. While both processes are essential to keeping your home comfortable and safe, they have different purposes.

Is air duct cleaning a good business to start?

Starting an air duct cleaning business is a rewarding venture with significant growth potential. With low startup costs, high demand, and comprehensive support from Air-Care, you can be your own boss and build a profitable business.

How much can you charge for duct cleaning?

A good price for air duct cleaning services can range from $300 to $500 for a residential home. However, remember that the most important factor is not just the cost but also the quality of service provided.

Pros and Cons of Air Duct Cleaning - Is It Worth It?

How much can a duct cleaning business make?

If you're working in a 2,000-square-foot home, it's $600. Let's say your average residential job brought in $500, if you clean ducts in just 2 homes per day for 5 days, you'll be bringing in $5,000 per week! Commercial projects, like casinos, offices, and prisons, command higher rates.

Why is duct cleaning so expensive?

Factors Influencing Air Duct Cleaning Costs

Size of Home/HVAC System: Larger homes with more ductwork naturally require more time and effort to clean, leading to higher costs.

How much does Stanley steemer pay air duct techs?

The estimated total pay range for a Air Duct Technician at Stanley Steemer International is $18–$25 per hour, which includes base salary and additional pay. The average Air Duct Technician base salary at Stanley Steemer International is $21 per hour.

How long does it take a company to clean air ducts?

How Long Does Air Duct Cleaning Service Take? Air duct cleaning takes anywhere between an hour and a full day (or more, in commercial HVAC systems cleaning). A standard air duct cleaning would be two to three hours and would cover the HVAC unit, the main return, the vents in the rooms and the air ducts themselves.

What are the drawbacks of duct cleaning?

Cons:
  • It's Not a Permanent Solution: Air duct cleaning is not a permanent solution to the problems in your ductwork. ...
  • It Can Be Expensive: Air duct cleaning can be expensive, especially if you have a large home with multiple ductwork systems. ...
  • It's a Mess: Air duct cleaning can be a messy process.

How much does Stanley Steemer air duct cleaning cost?

The offer price is most likely per vent pricing and does not factor in the cost of the entire cleaning. While it may seem like a money-saving deal, the final price tag will probably be closer to that $450-$1000 range.

Do you tip duct cleaners?

It's not necessary to tip your air duct cleaner. You can show appreciation in other ways, like offering a cold bottled water. If you're happy with the job, leaving a positive online review for the company is always nice.

Can a homeowner clean their own air ducts?

Getting into the ductwork of your home can be dangerous to you and your HVAC system. This process should only be handled by professionals. Expert cleaning companies have the knowledge and equipment to pull dust, debris and allergens from the entirety of your HVAC system.

Is duct cleaning part of HVAC?

While HVAC maintenance focuses on comprehensive system upkeep and performance, duct cleaning specifically targets the cleanliness of the ductwork. By reducing airflow restrictions and improving indoor air quality, both services contribute to the longevity and efficiency of your HVAC system.

How messy is duct cleaning?

Duct cleaning can make a mess if not done professionally. Remember, cleaning your ducts involves removing the dirt from the ductwork and directing it to another place for safe disposal. If the process is done professionally, air pollutants accumulated in your air ducts will be disposed of properly.

Do duct cleaners need a license?

This is because for a proper cleaning, your air duct cleaner must have a C20 contractor's license from the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). The C20 license is granted to those who build, maintain and repair heating, air conditioning, and ventilation equipment.

How to start a duct cleaning business?

Begin by ensuring you have comprehensive training and certification in HVAC systems - this knowledge is crucial for providing quality service and building trust with your clients. Next, invest in high-quality equipment; efficient, powerful tools are non-negotiable for effective cleaning.

How often should your air ducts be cleaned?

Air duct cleaning is an often overlooked but essential aspect of home maintenance. While the general recommendation is to clean your air ducts every three to five years, this frequency can vary depending on factors such as allergy sufferers in the house, pet ownership, and recent home renovations.

How not to get scammed by duct cleaning?

4 Tips to Help You Spot Duct Cleaning Scams
  1. Tip #1: Duct Cleaning Scammers Will Claim Specific Certifications. ...
  2. Tip #2: Duct Cleaning Scammers Typically Offer Extremely Low Discounts (For a Reason) ...
  3. Tip #3: Duct Cleaning Won't Immediately Improve Indoor Air Quality or Stop Health Issues.

Why is my house so dusty?

If you notice a lot of dust in your house, it's likely due to a combination of factors affecting air quality and ventilation. Dust particles from outside can enter through open windows or doors, while indoor sources like pet dander, dead skin cells, and fibers from textiles contribute to the buildup.

Do I need a permit for air duct cleaning?

Technically, you don't need a license to clean air ducts, but the law requires NADCA licenses and certifications for companies that provide air duct cleaning services. So, if you want to function legally as a duct cleaning technician, you need to have your license sorted. Luckily, it isn't too hard to do!

What is the most lucrative cleaning business?

The most profitable type of cleaning business is commercial cleaning. The demand for commercial cleaning is always high, and if you are lucky enough to secure a commercial contract, you can generate significant revenue.

How much is a duct job?

We'll look at a few of these below: Home Size: Installing ductwork in a small 1,000-square-foot home can cost as little as $1,400. In a 2,000- to 3,000-square-foot home, it can cost from $2,800 to $6,700, while the same project in a 4,000-square-foot home can cost as much as $9,000. ¹

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