I checked Sears web site for comparison and they start at $299 but send someone to the house to give a full estimate. So I'm sure it's significantly higher and Sears usually is pricey.

They usually have a base price that includes a certain number of ducts then they add on for each additional duct. The last time I had mine done we were also getting a new furnace and AC so they included the duct cleaning.

I would call a few reputable places and see what they charge. And if you have a washer and dryer in your condo ask about having the dryer duct cleaned as well.

This post was edited by maire_cate on Thu, Jun 12, 14 at 9:57

Duct cleaning is unnecessary except under specific circumstances, like after an animal or pest infestation, broken connections, etc. Have any such problems fixed when discovered.

Remember that the air passing into your supply ducts first passes through a filter. If you keep your filter clean and in place, particles shouldn't accumulate. Further, if you have enough pressure in your system, any dust will be blown out the supply registers when the unit is on.

If you want to do something positive for your ducts, have someone check and SEAL all accessible gaps with mastic or foil tape. Dirt can fall into floor registers, you should be able to reach that with a vacuum.

Duct cleaning is mostly a high profit scam.

The link below will take you to a page on the EPA website that discusses duct cleaning. Their view is that it isn't necessary.

Here is a link that might be useful: EPA article on duct cleaning

Our AC guy told us it was not necessary, my DH says the same as Snidely it is a scam~~just clean or change your filters.

I agree - not necessary, but a big money-maker for the service provider.

It IS, however - necessary to have your dryer duct work cleaned once a year. I had mine done (for $50) and you can't believe what that fella cleaned out of the inside of my dryer and vent and duct work - totally disgusting!

My dryer worked like new after the thorough cleaning, in about half the usual time, until the drum belt broke. He's coming to fix it this afternoon, then I'll be back to a new-working dryer!!!

I too had never thought about cleaning the under-the-foundation duct from my clothes dryer as I had never heard of the need for it. I did wonder about any collection of stuff, like the hair from my dog when I washed his stuff. When I had the repairman out to do some other work, he offered to do this and showed me what all he was able to suck out of the vent. My dryer also worked much more efficiently and faster than before. It's a good thing to do.

As far as the duct cleaning mentioned, I've also been told not to bother. They don't need it.

Why do you suggest they need cleaning?

Dittto the EPA article on duct cleaning (found that when I was considering having it done.) And DITTO on the dryer vent cleaning. When we bought this 20 year old house, the dryer was running REALLY slow. DH and DSIL got the equipment and took out a HUGE clog of gunk! Clean that vent yearly!

We did that once years ago. Never again unless something happens that I need to get it done. After they left my ducts made a loud noise because I believe they knocked something loose. It's fine now. Took over a year.

Best thing I did and no regrets!

My condo is almost 30 years old and had my ducts cleaned and worth every penny.

Happy camper here!

This post was edited by glenda_al on Thu, Jun 12, 14 at 23:28