Frequently Asked Questions

Professional air duct cleaning costs $400-550 for average Texas homes (1,500-2,500 sq ft). Larger homes (3,000+ sq ft) cost $550-750.

What's included:

• All supply and return ducts
• Trunk lines and plenums
• Blower cleaning
• Accessible coil cleaning
• Dryer vent cleaning
• Sanitization treatment
• Before/after camera inspection

Regional pricing: Dallas averages $425-525, Houston $450-575 (higher due to humidity and mold concerns).

Several factors determine final pricing:

• Home size: More square footage = more ducts = higher cost
• Number of vents: Each supply and return vent requires individual cleaning
• Ductwork accessibility: Difficult access (tight crawlspaces, high ceilings) adds time
• Contamination level: Heavy buildup, mold, or pest infestation requires extra work
• Geographic location: Urban areas cost slightly more; travel fees may apply for remote locations
• Additional services: Mold remediation, duct repair, or extensive sanitization cost extra

Legitimate companies provide written estimates with all costs included. Watch for these potential extras:

• Per-vent charges: Some companies quote low base prices then charge per vent ($25-$50 each adds up fast)
• "Necessary" sanitization: Should be included, not a surprise upsell
• Mold treatment: Fair if actual mold discovered, but verify with testing
• Duct repairs: Legitimate if damage found, but should be approved before work
• Travel fees: Reasonable for remote areas, should be disclosed upfront

Yes! We offer several payment options:

• 0% financing: 6-12 month payment plans (approval required)
• Credit cards: All major cards accepted
• Cash/check: Accepted at time of service
• ACH transfer: Bank transfers available

Payment due upon service completion. No upfront deposits required for residential services.

Professional service takes 3-5 hours for average homes and 5-7 hours for larger homes (3,000+ sq ft).

Timeline breakdown:

• Initial inspection: 20-30 minutes
• Equipment setup: 15-20 minutes
• Supply duct cleaning: 60-90 minutes
• Return duct cleaning: 30-45 minutes
• Trunk line cleaning: 20-30 minutes
• Blower/coil cleaning: 30-40 minutes
• Dryer vent cleaning: 20-30 minutes
• Sanitization & final inspection: 20-30 minutes

We follow NADCA source removal method:

1. Inspection: Camera inspection documenting duct conditions
2. Setup: Truck-mounted vacuum connected to main duct system
3. Negative pressure: Powerful suction throughout entire system
4. Contact cleaning: Rotary brushes scrub each duct section individually
5. Component cleaning: Blower, coils, and plenum cleaned
6. Sanitization: EPA-registered antimicrobial treatment
7. Final inspection: Camera verification of clean ducts
8. Documentation: Before/after photos and written report

Read our complete step-by-step process guide for detailed information.

No when done with proper equipment. Professional companies use:

• Truck-mounted HEPA filtration: 99.97% particle capture outside your home
• Negative pressure: Pulls all debris directly into sealed collection units
• Floor runners and drop cloths: Protect floors and furniture
• Containment procedures: Prevent dust from spreading

You may see a small dust puff when registers are first removed, but it's immediately vacuumed. Your home should be cleaner after service, not dirtier.

Professional NADCA-certified companies use:

• Truck-mounted vacuum systems: 5,000-10,000 CFM capacity creating powerful negative pressure
• HEPA filtration: Captures 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger
• Rotary brushes: Various sizes (4"-12") for different duct dimensions
• Air compressors: 90-150 PSI for air whips and stubborn debris
• Inspection cameras: HD cameras with 50+ foot cables for documentation
• Specialized tools: Access tools, sanitization equipment, airflow meters

Equipment investment: $45,000-$90,000+ for complete professional setup. This is why legitimate companies can't charge $99-$199.

Yes when done by professionals with proper equipment. Benefits include:

• Energy savings: 15-30% reduction in HVAC costs ($180-$600 annually in Texas)
• Air quality improvement: 60% reduction in airborne allergens and particles
• HVAC lifespan: 5-7 years extended equipment life
• Health benefits: 73% report reduced allergy/asthma symptoms
• Less dusting: 2+ hours weekly time saved on housekeeping

Average cost ($485) typically pays for itself within 12-18 months through energy savings alone.

Read our detailed ROI analysis with real data.

Professionally cleaned ducts provide measurable health improvements:

• Allergen reduction: 58-67% reduction in dust mites, pollen, and pet dander
• Mold spore reduction: 72% reduction when mold present
• Respiratory improvement: 76% report reduced allergy symptoms
• Asthma management: 68% report less frequent asthma medication use
• Sleep quality: Better breathing = better sleep for many families

Particularly beneficial for Texas families dealing with cedar fever in Dallas or mold from Houston humidity.

Yes. Our data from 89 tracked Texas homes shows average 28% energy cost reduction after professional cleaning.

Energy savings breakdown:

• Small homes (under 1,500 sq ft): $180-$300 annually
• Medium homes (1,500-2,500 sq ft): $300-$600 annually
• Large homes (2,500-3,500 sq ft): $600-$900 annually
• Very large homes (3,500+ sq ft): $900-$1,200+ annually

Texas families see higher savings due to extensive AC use (6-8 months annually). Clean ducts improve airflow, reduce runtime, and decrease energy consumption.

Results last 5-7 years with proper maintenance:

• Air quality improvements: Noticeable for 5-7 years
• Energy savings: Sustained throughout period between cleanings
• HVAC performance: Improved efficiency lasts until next cleaning cycle

To maximize longevity:

• Change HVAC filters every 3 months (monthly with pets)
• Schedule annual HVAC maintenance
• Address moisture issues promptly
• Keep home clean to minimize dust sources

NADCA recommends every 3-5 years for standard homes. Clean more frequently (2-3 years) if you have:

• Pets: Pet dander and hair accumulate faster
• Allergies or asthma: Regular cleaning manages symptoms
• Smokers: Tobacco residue requires frequent attention
• Recent renovation: Construction dust contaminates systems
• High dust levels: Areas with lots of pollen or pollution
• Humid climate: Houston's humidity increases mold risk

Clean immediately after: Fire/smoke damage, water damage, mold discovery, pest infestation, or home purchase with unknown history.

Schedule cleaning if you notice:

• Visible dust: Dust blowing from vents when system runs
• Musty odors: Unpleasant smells from vents
• Mold growth: Visible mold around vents or on registers
• Allergy symptoms: Worsening indoor allergies or respiratory issues
• Excessive dusting: Furniture gets dusty within days of cleaning
• Uneven temperatures: Some rooms significantly hotter/colder
• Increased energy bills: 15-20% spikes without explanation
• Pest evidence: Rodent droppings or insect debris near vents
• Recent events: Renovation, water damage, or never cleaned (7+ years)

Read our complete warning signs guide.

Best times: Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) in Texas.

Why these seasons:

• Mild temperatures make HVAC system downtime comfortable
• Before heavy AC season (summer) or heating season (winter)
• Lower pollen counts than peak allergy seasons
• Often promotional pricing during slower periods

Avoid if possible: Peak summer (June-August) and peak winter (December-January) when HVAC downtime is uncomfortable.

Exception: Never delay if you have mold, pest infestation, or health concerns—address immediately regardless of season.

Complete this checklist before technicians arrive:

• Clear access: Move furniture 3 feet from all vents and registers
• Clear path: Ensure clear walkway to furnace/air handler
• Secure pets: Place in separate room or off-site during service
• Protect valuables: Move fragile items away from work areas
• Attic/crawlspace access: Ensure we can reach ductwork if needed
• Be present: Plan to be home for 3-5 hour service
• Schedule wisely: Avoid busy times when you need AC/heat
• Fresh filter: Change HVAC filter day before service

Read our complete preparation guide for detailed instructions.

Yes, you should be present for several reasons:

• Providing access to all rooms and areas
• Answering questions about HVAC system
• Reviewing before/after camera inspection results
• Approving any additional work discovered
• Ensuring pets remain secure
• Signing off on completed work

Plan to dedicate 3-5 hours to being available. You don't need to hover, but should be accessible.

Yes. Your HVAC system will be off for 3-5 hours during cleaning.

Texas considerations:

• Summer: Indoor temperature may rise 5-10 degrees in Houston, Dallas, or Pearland
• Winter: Less common issue in Texas, but temperatures will drop during cold snaps
• Best scheduling: Morning appointments in summer (before peak heat), afternoon in winter

Why necessary: We're working inside your ductwork and HVAC system. Running the system during cleaning is dangerous and prevents effective work.

Follow this verification process:

1. Verify NADCA certification: Check nadca.com member directory
2. Check BBB rating: Look for A/A+ rating with 3+ years history
3. Confirm physical address: Google Street View the business location
4. Request insurance certificate: $1M+ liability coverage
5. Get 3 written estimates: Compare scope, pricing, and credentials
6. Ask about equipment: Truck-mounted systems, not shop vacuums
7. Verify 3-5 hour timeline: Shorter services are incomplete
8. Read multiple reviews: Google, Yelp, BBB for consistent patterns

Read our complete company selection guide.

NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) is the leading industry organization setting professional standards.

NADCA certification means:

• Comprehensive training in source removal methods
• Adherence to strict equipment and process standards
• Ongoing education requirements
• Professional ethics and business practices
• Verifiable credentials (check nadca.com directory)

How to verify: Visit nadca.com → Find a Professional → Enter company name. Real certifications start with "ASCS." If they claim certification but aren't listed, they're lying.

Our certification: ASCS-12847 (verifiable at nadca.com)

Avoid companies with these warning signs:

• Prices under $300: Inadequate equipment or bait-and-switch tactics
• Can't verify NADCA certification: Fake claims are common (84% of scammers)
• PO box address: No physical business location = fly-by-night operation
• No insurance certificate: Your property is at risk
• Verbal-only quotes: No written estimates = no accountability
• High-pressure sales: "This price today only" tactics
• Cash-only demands: Avoiding taxes and chargebacks
• Unsolicited contact: Robocalls or door-to-door solicitation
• Service under 2 hours: Impossible to clean properly
• Can't show equipment: Evasive about truck-mounted systems

Read our complete scam prevention guide.

Yes. Contaminated ducts can contribute to various health issues:

• Respiratory problems: Coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing
• Allergy symptoms: Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes
• Asthma triggers: Increased asthma attacks and medication use
• Sinus issues: Chronic sinus infections and congestion
• Fatigue: Poor sleep quality from breathing contaminated air
• Headaches: Indoor air pollution can trigger frequent headaches

Particularly vulnerable: Children, elderly, people with asthma/allergies, and those with compromised immune systems.

Note: Cleaning alone won't cure health conditions, but removing contamination sources often provides measurable symptom relief (73% of families report improvement).

Yes. Mold in ductwork distributes spores throughout your home every time your HVAC runs.

Health risks:

• Respiratory irritation and infections
• Allergic reactions (sneezing, coughing, rashes)
• Asthma exacerbation
• Toxic reactions in severe cases (black mold)

Common in Texas: Houston's high humidity creates ideal mold conditions. Dallas also experiences mold issues during humid periods.

Our approach: We identify mold during inspection, perform EPA-approved remediation, and address moisture sources preventing return.

Learn more about our mold removal services.

Yes. We use EPA-registered antimicrobial treatments specifically approved for HVAC systems.

Safety features:

• EPA registration for residential use
• Non-toxic when applied properly
• No harmful residues
• Safe for homes with children and pets
• Applied using specialized equipment (not aerosol cans)

After treatment: Slight chemical odor dissipates within 2-4 hours as system ventilates. Run HVAC for 30 minutes after service to complete ventilation.

Sensitive individuals: If you have severe chemical sensitivities, discuss with us beforehand. Sanitization can be skipped, though it's not recommended for mold-prone areas.

Professional cleaning requires both working together:

Negative pressure:

• Truck-mounted vacuum creates powerful suction (10-15 inches water column)
• Pulls all dislodged debris directly into HEPA-filtered collection units
• Prevents contamination from spreading during cleaning

Contact cleaning (source removal):

• Rotary brushes physically scrub duct surfaces
• Dislodges adhered contamination vacuum alone can't remove
• Ensures complete cleaning of all surfaces

Why both matter: Vacuum alone misses stuck-on contamination. Brushing without proper vacuum redistributes debris. NADCA standards require both.

Read our complete methods comparison.

Yes. Flexible ducts (common in Texas residential construction) require careful handling:

Special considerations:

• Gentler brushing to avoid tearing flexible material
• Lower RPM rotary tools
• Air whips often preferred over aggressive brushing
• Visual inspection for damage before and after

Risk: Improper cleaning can damage flexible ductwork. This is why equipment and technician training matter.

Our approach: We identify duct material during inspection and use appropriate tools and techniques for each type.

Usually NO for routine maintenance, but YES in specific situations:

Home warranty may cover:

• Cleaning required as part of covered HVAC repair
• Contamination directly causing system failure
• Damage during warranty-covered work

Homeowners insurance may cover:

• Fire or smoke damage cleanup
• Water damage resulting in mold
• Storm or fallen tree damage
• Vandalism or break-in contamination

Documentation needed: We provide detailed reports, camera evidence, and itemized estimates for insurance/warranty claims.

Read our complete coverage guide.