Duct System Size and Layout Duct replacement costs typically range from around $20–$60 per linear foot, based on our team's market research. For example, if your home has 100 feet of ductwork, a complete replacement can cost between $2,000 and $6,000.
The cost calculation is based on covering an average area of around 100 square feet, with ductwork materials priced at approximately $10.00 per square foot. The labor cost is an estimation of around 20 hours of work at $35.00 per hour, a rate that varies by region and contractor expertise.
One of the things that affects the pricing of ductwork jobs is when there's a sufficiently strong demand for other types of HVAC work, so effectively it's driven as an opportunity cost, having an installation crew assigned to do equipment installations has a higher yield than a ductwork installation.
On average, the cost ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 for a small to medium-sized home. However, duct replacement can run as low as $1,400 for smaller homes and as high as $9,000 for larger homes.
One common benefit of ductwork replacement is an increased efficiency in the operation of your HVAC system. Old ductwork can become cracked, dirty, and compromised, leading to your HVAC machinery having to work harder than necessary to heat or cool your home.
Your homeowner's insurance won't cover cleaning, repairing or replacing your ductwork. What does a home warranty cover when it comes to AC units and ductwork?
OLD HOME, OLD DUCTS
Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years, and starts to deteriorate around year 15. If your ductwork is more than 15 years old, you may need to have the ductwork inspected to see if it is time to replace it. If it is older than 25 years, you almost certainly need to replace the ductwork.
Ductwork typically requires replacement every 10-15 years, and delaying this can compromise airflow and energy efficiency. Visible and subtle signs, including excessive dust, strange noises, and increases in energy bills, can indicate deteriorating ductwork that needs repair or replacement.
How much does a new HVAC system cost for a 2,000 sq. ft. home? The costs range from $6,224 to $11,434, depending on the system type and installation requirements. Key factors include system size, type, efficiency, and local labor rates.
However, DIY ventilation replacement is a task you should leave to an HVAC expert. Doing this task on your own isn't recommended because: Faulty installation will waste energy. Air leaks can cause your utility bills to rise.
Alternatives to air duct systems include window-mounted air conditioners, boilers and radiators, and ductless mini-split systems.
Full HVAC Installation With Ductwork
You can expect to pay more for an installation with new ductwork. HVAC ductwork installation averages $1,000 to $2,700 for a 1,000-square-foot system—so without the removal fees, you'll pay between $8,500 and $19,200 for a new HVAC system of this size with ductwork.
The Mess Is Minimal
If you don't have ducts, the spots that will see the most change are the closets and the attic, where we'll be running the ductwork. We'll have to cut a few holes in your ceiling to install vents and returns, but that's a very minor thing to do to drywall.
The air now has to re-pressurize to regain its turbulent flow so it can continue to push its way down the duct. It requires about 24′ or two feet to do this. This is the 'Two-Foot Rule?. Ideally, you should allow at least 24′ between takeoffs and at the end of any duct run.
Yes, installing a new HVAC system can increase your home value by 5% to 7% with a return on investment (ROI) of about 30%. This projected increase is especially true if you replace your current setup with an energy-efficient system, providing additional benefits to future buyers in the long run.
Homeowners insurance covers HVAC systems when the damage is a result of a covered disaster or peril, including high winds, fallen trees, theft, hail or even a fire. So if lightning strikes your unit and damages its electrical components, your homeowners insurance policy would probably cover it.
Better pricing: Since there's less demand for HVAC system replacement in spring and fall, your HVAC contractor might even offer their own savings incentives.
Usually, it is a quick fix, but sometimes the failure can be caused by a much bigger problem. The most expensive part of an AC unit to replace and repair is the air compressor.
Ductwork Repair Cost: Key Takeaways
Typically, for an average house, the average cost for ductwork replacement is between $1,400 and $8,000. Smaller homes generally require less ductwork, leading to lower costs.
Experts advise having your air ducts cleaned every 2 to 3 years to prevent many maintenance and health problems before they start. However, homes with pets or children with allergies should have their air ducts professionally cleaned more frequently than the recommended average.
However, most HVAC contractors use a rule of thumb to determine the number of air vents needed. For example, for a standard residential HVAC unit, you'll generally need one supply vent and one return vent for every 100 to 150 square feet of living space.
But if you notice a bad odor once you turn on the system, there might be a problem with your ductwork. Similarly, a lot of dust in your house indicates that your ductwork is damaged and dirty. Broken ductwork plays a major role in restricting clean air from flowing throughout your home.
Average Costs for Installing an HVAC System with Ductwork
2-ton HVAC system: $8,000-$12,000, depending on the brand. 3-ton HVAC system: $9,500-$13,500, depending on the brand. 4-ton HVAC system: $11,500-$15,500, depending on the brand.
The average duct leakage test costs $325, though most homeowners spend between $115 and $450 depending on home size and ductwork accessibility. However, several other factors can influence what you'll pay.