Is duct cleaning a good business?

Author: Osvaldo Watsica  |  Last update: Tuesday, August 5, 2025

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.

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.

Is duct cleaning a good career?

Skilled labor is not a fallback position, and air duct cleaning is a great career choice, with good pay and ample opportunities.

Do you need a license to clean ductwork?

In short, the answer is yes. If you're cleaning air ducts as a business (you will receive money for the job), you need a license.

Is air duct cleaning really worth the money?

Duct cleaning has never been shown to actually prevent health problems. Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts. This is because much of the dirt in air ducts adheres to duct surfaces and does not necessarily enter the living space.

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

How to start a duct cleaning business?

Get Training
  1. Take Advantage of Training Programs. Proper training is crucial for the success of your air duct cleaning business. ...
  2. Learn to Use Your Equipment. ...
  3. Develop Effective Cleaning Techniques. ...
  4. Marketing and Pricing Strategies. ...
  5. Ongoing Support. ...
  6. Certification and Credibility. ...
  7. Build a Website. ...
  8. Utilize Social Media.

How much does a good duct cleaning cost?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average cost for properly cleaning an entire air duct system in an average-sized home ranges from $450 to $1,000. However, there are several factors that affect the cost and time estimates of air duct cleaning: the type of ductwork.

What is the risk of air duct cleaning?

While the debate about the value of periodic duct cleaning continues, no evidence suggests that such cleaning would be detrimental, provided that it is done properly. On the other hand, if a service provider fails to follow proper duct cleaning procedures, duct cleaning can cause indoor air problems.

Is duct work difficult?

Just how hard is it to replace ductwork? In short, the project requires meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of HVAC systems. That's why Blue Frost stresses the importance of professional installation.

How much do vent cleaners get paid?

Average Air Duct Cleaning hourly pay ranges from approximately $17.97 per hour for Customer Service Representative to $24.82 per hour for Mechanic.

How much does it cost to start a duct cleaning business?

Starting an air duct cleaning business can cost between $62 and $35,923.

How long does a duct cleaning take?

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.

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.

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 I have to move furniture for duct cleaning?

First and foremost, you should clear away any obstructions in or around your ducts that might make it difficult for us to access them. This includes things like moving furniture away from vents, removing any items stored near the registers themselves, and more.

Is duct cleaning really worth it?

Generally, duct cleaning is not worth the money except for a few rare and extenuating circumstances, 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.

What can go wrong with duct cleaning?

Moisture accumulation: If moisture is introduced into the ductwork during cleaning and not properly removed, it can lead to mold growth, which poses health risks and can further deteriorate the ductwork.

Is it a waste of money to have your air ducts cleaned?

It's absolutely not a waste of money, as long as it's not performed too frequently. Homeowners usually only need to consider air duct cleaning when visible signs of dust buildup are present, if they've noticed a change in respiratory or allergy symptoms, or if it's been several years since the last duct cleaning.

Can I clean my ducts myself?

Use a brush to loosen any buildup of dust in the ductwork. Lift register and insert vacuum hose as far into the piping as it can go. Turn the vacuum on to capture as much dust as possible that the fan is pushing through the ductwork.

How much is Stanley Steemer?

Stanley Steemer typically charges around $50-$75 per room for areas exceeding 400 square feet. The cost may increase depending on the level of dirt or stains present. It's important to note that these prices are estimates and can vary depending on your location and specific requirements.

How often should you duct clean your house?

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.

Do you need a license for duct cleaning?

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 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

How to sell duct cleaning?

In today's digital age, online visibility is key for businesses, including those in the air duct cleaning sector. Leveraging platforms like Google My Business, social media sites, and email marketing can significantly enhance your visibility and engagement with potential customers.

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