You’ve vacuumed. You’ve Swiffered. You’ve lit the fancy candle that promises to smell like a
mountain breeze. And yet… your house still feels stale.
The dust is multiplying like it’s on a mission. Your allergies are back for their seasonal comeback tour. There’s been a consistent cough in your household since the weather turned nice.
If you're wondering whether the problem might be lurking somewhere deeper—like inside your ductwork—you’re not alone.
Duct cleaning isn’t something most of us think about often. But when the air feels off or the dust just keeps coming back no matter how often you clean, it suddenly becomes very relevant.
And before you pick up the phone or fill out the “Schedule Now” form, there’s one big question:
How much does duct cleaning cost—and what are you actually paying for?
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to expect, what duct cleaning costs, what’s included, and how to decide if your home really needs it.
What Duct Cleaning Actually Does
First things first—yes, your ducts need attention. They’re out of sight, but very much not out of play.
Over time, your ductwork becomes the resting place for all sorts of things you definitely don’t want recirculating through your air:
- Dust and lint
- Pet hair and dander
- Pollen and allergens
- Leftover construction debris
- And for those who recently moved: possibly even the stuff the previous owners left behind (and we don’t mean picture frames)
Every time your system kicks on, that air gets pushed through your vents and into the air you breathe. No wonder it still feels stuffy, even after a deep clean.
So… What’s This Gonna Cost Me?
Most duct cleaning services charge about $65 per duct (meaning each vent in your home). You’ll only pay for the actual number of vents (both supply and return), and most pros will do a full count once they arrive so there are no surprises.
Here’s what that looks like in the real world:
Your total will depend on your home size, layout, and how your HVAC system is set up—but this gives you a solid starting point.
What You’re Actually Getting for the Price
Duct cleaning is more than just waving a vacuum hose at your vents and hoping for the best. A real, professional service is thorough, methodical, and focused on improving your home’s air quality—not just checking a box. Here’s what you should expect when you hire a reputable company:
A full walkthrough of your duct system
Before the cleaning begins, a technician should walk through your home and inspect each supply and return vent. This ensures you get an accurate count of your ducts, a clear explanation of how the cleaning will be done, and the opportunity to ask questions before any equipment is turned on. It’s a simple but important step that shows you’re working with a company that values transparency.
Industrial-grade equipment
This job can’t be done right with a shop vacuum or handheld tool. Professional duct cleaning uses powerful negative air machines, along with rotating brush systems that physically dislodge buildup from the duct walls. The equipment is designed specifically for ductwork and strong enough to remove years of accumulated dust, pet dander, and debris—especially from long or hard-to-reach duct runs.
A full-system cleaning—not just the easy stuff
A complete duct cleaning includes both supply and return vents—no shortcuts. That means whether your vents are on the ceiling, floor, or tucked behind furniture, they should all be cleaned. A technician should also clean the main trunk lines and, in most cases, the return chase and access points, ensuring the entire system is addressed from start to finish.
Before-and-after photo documentation
A reputable company will offer visual proof of the work they’ve done. That means photos of your
ducts before cleaning, and again after everything is cleared. These images not only help you understand what was removed, but also provide peace of mind that the service was done thoroughly and professionally.
Respectful prep and cleanup
Professionalism doesn’t stop at the ductwork. Technicians should wear protective gear like shoe covers, lay down drop cloths where needed, and be mindful of your home and belongings. Once the job is done, they should clean up their workspace completely—leaving your home just as tidy as they found it, minus all the dust in your vents.
When Duct Cleaning Is Worth Every Penny
You don’t need duct cleaning every year. But when the timing is right, it can make a noticeable difference.
You’ve recently bought an older home
The mystery smells? They could be hiding in your ductwork.
You have pets
Their fur and dander don’t stay neatly in the corners. They float into your vents and settle there over time.
You’ve remodeled or had construction work done
Drywall dust, insulation bits, sawdust—it all gets pulled into the system.
Your allergies are worse indoors than out
That’s a red flag that your indoor air quality needs attention.
You’ve never had your ducts cleaned
If it’s been 5+ years (or never), your system is likely overdue.
What’s Usually Not Included in the Base Price
It’s important to know what could add to the cost so you’re not caught off guard.
- Dryer vent cleaning (starts around $293)
- Mold remediation, if discovered during service
- Ductwork repairs or sealing (a totally different service)
- Multiple systems—you’ll typically be quoted per HVAC system
Always ask what’s included—and get it in writing before work begins.
About Those “$99 Duct Cleaning” Coupons…
Look, we all love a deal. But be cautious.
Many of those too-good-to-be-true offers only cover a handful of vents, and the upsell starts the moment someone walks in your door. Sometimes the “cleaning” is a quick air blast and nothing more.
If someone quotes you a full-house cleaning for less than what it costs to fill your SUV’s gas tank, ask more questions. You deserve real results—not gimmicks.
Is Professional Duct Cleaning Worth It for Your Home?
If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’ve been wondering why your home still feels dusty or stuffy
no matter how often you clean—or why your allergies seem worse inside than out. Maybe you’ve even noticed your energy bill creeping up without a clear cause.
Now, you have a straightforward understanding of what duct cleaning actually costs, what’s included in a professional service, and how to tell if your home might be due for it.
For homeowners in the Gresham–Portland area and the greater Columbia River Gorge, working with a trusted provider who understands the unique challenges of our Pacific Northwest climate can make all the difference. With over 16 years of hands-on experience in duct systems and indoor air quality, A&E Plumbing, Heating and Air offers duct cleaning professionals in the region aren’t just here to clean—they’re here to help you understand your system and make smart, lasting improvements.
