Is Duct Cleaning Worth It? Scam vs. Legitimate Service

The Great Duct Cleaning Debate

You've seen the ads: "$99 whole house duct cleaning!" or "Improve your air quality and health with duct cleaning!" But is it worth it, or is it a scam designed to upsell you on services you don't need?

The truth? It depends. Here's how to know.

When Duct Cleaning IS Worth It

After Major Renovation or Construction

Why It Matters: Construction dust, drywall particles, and debris get into ductwork. This isn't regular dust - it's heavy particulates that can clog filters quickly and circulate throughout your home.

Signs You Need It:

• Visible dust around vents after work completed
• Filter clogs faster than usual
• Gritty residue on surfaces

If You Have Visible Mold

Why It Matters: Mold in ductwork spreads spores throughout your home every time the system runs.

Warning Signs:

• Musty smell when system runs
• Visible mold on registers or inside ducts
• Family members with unexplained respiratory issues

Important: If you have mold, you need to find and fix the moisture source, not just clean the ducts.

Rodent or Pest Infestation

Why It Matters: Rodents leave droppings, nesting materials, and potentially died in your ducts. This is a health hazard.

Signs:

• Evidence of rodent activity in home
• Unusual odors from vents
• Visible nesting material at registers

Previous Owner Issues

Why It Matters: You don't know how the previous homeowner maintained the system. Heavy smokers, multiple pets, or neglected maintenance can leave significant buildup.

When Duct Cleaning Is NOT Necessary

Just Because It's Been a While

Despite what some companies claim, ducts don't need "regular" cleaning. The EPA states there's no evidence that duct cleaning prevents health problems.

To "Improve Air Quality" Generally

If you have no specific concerns, changing your air filter regularly is far more effective and cheaper.

After Every X Years

There's no magic timeframe. Clean ducts when there's a reason, not on a schedule.

Red Flags: Signs of a Duct Cleaning Scam

The $99 Whole-House Deal

The Scam: These companies get in the door cheaply, then:

• Claim they found mold (often lies)
• Push expensive "sanitizing" or "sealing" services
• Do minimal actual cleaning

Reality: Legitimate duct cleaning costs $300-700 for an average home. If it seems too cheap, it is.

Claiming Cleaning Will "Improve HVAC Efficiency"

The Truth: Minor dust in ducts doesn't significantly impact efficiency. Your filter handles most particles. If ducts are so clogged they restrict airflow, you'd notice other problems.

Scare Tactics About Your Family's Health

The Scam: "If you don't clean your ducts, your family could get sick!"

The Truth: Unless there's mold, pests, or excessive debris, normal duct dust isn't a health hazard for most people.

Showing You "Evidence" of Problems

The Scam: Some companies show photos claiming it's your ducts - but it's stock photos of worst-case scenarios.

Protect Yourself: Ask to see the camera footage in real-time Request before/after photos of YOUR ducts

How to Find a Legitimate Duct Cleaning Company

Check Credentials

• NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) certification
• Proper business license and insurance
• Good BBB rating and reviews

Get Written Estimates

• Based on square footage and number of vents
• Itemized list of services
• No pressure tactics

Ask About Process

Legitimate cleaning takes 3-5 hours and includes:

• Inspection with camera
• Negative pressure equipment
• Cleaning each supply and return vent
• Cleaning main trunk lines
• Access panel installation (if needed)

Fair Pricing

Expect to Pay:

• Small home (under 1,500 sqft): $300-400
• Medium home (1,500-3,000 sqft): $400-550
• Large home (3,000+ sqft): $500-700

Add-ons (if legitimately needed):

• Dryer vent cleaning: $75-150
• Sanitizing treatment: $50-150

Our Honest Recommendation

Clean Your Ducts If:

• You've done major renovation
• You see evidence of mold or pests
• You've just moved into a previously poorly-maintained home
• You're having respiratory issues linked to HVAC operation

Don't Bother If:

• "It's just time"
• You're responding to a too-good-to-be-true offer
• Someone told you it will dramatically improve air quality

For Better Air Quality Instead:

• Use quality filters (MERV 11-13)
• Change filters regularly
• Keep humidity controlled
• Consider air purification system
• Schedule HVAC maintenance

The Bottom Line

Duct cleaning is a legitimate service when there's a specific reason for it. But it's not regular maintenance, and cheap deals usually lead to upselling or poor work. Trust your judgment - if something feels like a scam, it probably is.