Is there a license for duct cleaning?

Author: Sammy Jacobs  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 21, 2025

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!

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.

How to start a duct cleaning business?

Invest in a duct cleaning machine and get training how to use it. Create a business plan and invest in basic signage for your equipment. Create an invoice, contract and scheduling system. Create a business with a unique, but memorable name. Get licenses and permits from the government.

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.

Is a duct cleaning business profitable?

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.

Consumer group: Don’t hire duct cleaning companies

How much does Stanley Steemer 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.

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 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

What are the cons 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 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 to get air ducts cleaned?

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 do professional duct cleaners do?

Duct cleaning generally refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grilles and diffusers, heat exchangers heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans (drip pans), fan motor and fan housing, and the air ...

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.

What does NADCA certified mean?

NADCA's Air Systems Cleaning Specialist (ASCS) certifications signify a commitment to excellence in the field of air duct cleaning.

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.

How much should a 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.

Can I do duct work myself?

It is possible to install HVAC ductwork yourself, but it will require research and willingness to pay attention to detail. Be sure to educate yourself on the intricacies of the work so that you can be sure that you do not inhibit the airflow.

Why is duct work so expensive?

Ductwork costs are largely determined by the size and complexity of your system—but material choices, labor costs, and permitting requirements also play a significant role.

Is Stanley Steemer air duct cleaning worth it?

Clean ducts ensure smoother airflow, reducing energy costs. Extended System Life: Regular cleaning minimizes wear and tear on your HVAC system, potentially saving you substantial money on future repairs or the need for early replacement.

Do it yourself duct cleaning?

How to Clean Your Air Ducts
  1. Turn Your System Off. Turn off the thermostat to your system. ...
  2. Remove and Clean the Grilles. ...
  3. Loosen the Debris in the Supply Duct. ...
  4. Vacuum Out the Ducts. ...
  5. Replace Your Air Filters. ...
  6. Replace the Grilles and Vent Covers. ...
  7. Reset the Thermostat.

Can you rent duct cleaning equipment?

Air Duct Cleaning Machine Rentals Can Cost $100 To $500 Per Day, depending on the equipment size and complexity. Keep This In Mind: without the right experience or know-how, it can be unnecessarily difficult.

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.

How much does 4 seasons duct cleaning cost?

Four Seasons Air Duct Cleaning

If you choose to go with Four Seasons duct cleaning services, you will pay between $600 and $750. This varies depending on the number of ducts that need to be cleaned, the square footage of your home, whether it is a basic cleaning or mold remediation is required, and other factors.

How to sell duct cleaning?

Here are seven ways to grow your air duct cleaning business:
  1. Recruit and train the right people. ...
  2. Create a digital marketing strategy. ...
  3. Invest in customer experience. ...
  4. Leverage offline marketing. ...
  5. Build partnerships with other local businesses. ...
  6. List your business in relevant directories. ...
  7. Create a referral program.

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