Unlock the secret to cleaner, healthier air in your home!
When planning for an air duct cleaning, many homeowners wonder: How long will it actually take?
The duration of your air duct cleaning appointment can vary; it can range from 2 to 4 hours for residential properties and longer for larger or commercial spaces, with the exact timeframe determined by your service provider. Companies that possibly finish quicker mean they did not complete a comprehensive vent cleaning of your HVAC system.
At Planet Duct, we take the time needed to thoroughly clean your air ducts, so you can breathe easily knowing your system is truly clean. A proper air duct cleaning improves your indoor air quality, lowers energy bills, and gives you peace of mind. We’re also passionate about educating our Colorado Springs neighbors on what to expect and how to avoid unethical cleaning practices.
According to our expert air duct cleaning technicians, it takes three to five hours to properly clean your air duct system. This includes the return side, supply side, blower compartment, blower wheel, and return drop. The exact amount of time it takes to clean air ducts will depend on the size of your HVAC system. Watch the video below or read the transcription to learn more.
Professional Air Duct Cleaning Process
The time it takes to clean your air ducts depends on the size and complexity of your HVAC system. On average, it takes our experienced technicians three to five hours to deliver a thorough, top-to-bottom cleaning.
- Smaller homes: Around 3 hours
- Larger homes (over 3,000 sq. ft.): Closer to 5 hours or more
For example, when we cleaned a 7,700-square-foot historic home downtown, it took over six hours — and we were glad to do it right. Our free online estimate tool allows you to enter your home’s square footage so we can provide a more accurate time and cost estimate before we arrive.
Why Cheap Air Duct Cleaners & Carpet Cleaners Miss the Mark
Some discount companies claim they can clean your entire air duct system in under two hours. However, this simply isn’t enough time for a comprehensive cleaning.
These companies often rely on basic equipment that stirs up dust rather than fully extracting it. They usually skip essential steps like connecting a proper negative air system, cleaning every line and trunk, and thoroughly addressing the blower compartment and return drop.
When they’re in and out in an hour, your HVAC system isn’t truly clean, and you’re left with hidden dust, allergens, and contaminants still circulating through your home. This is why knowing how to clean air ducts the right way matters — it requires more than a quick vacuum or surface wipe.
How Often Should Air Ducts be Cleaned?
While duration is important, so is frequency. For most homeowners, we recommend scheduling a professional air duct cleaning every 3 to 5 years to maintain the best indoor air quality.
If it’s been longer than that — or if you suspect your last cleaning wasn’t thorough — you may want to schedule sooner. Check out this blog for more signs that it might be time to clean your ducts.
Hire Planet Duct for the Best Air Duct Cleaning
At Planet Duct, we prioritize quality over speed. If your cleaning takes less than three hours, chances are it wasn’t done correctly. Our team is NADCA-certified, highly trained, and dedicated to doing the job right every time.
If you have questions about the process, including how to clean air ducts in house or when to schedule your next service, contact us today. We’re here to help you breathe cleaner, healthier air.
Bonus FAQ: How Much Does It Cost to Clean Air Ducts?
A thorough, professional air duct cleaning typically costs between $450 and $1,000, according to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).
Companies offering prices significantly lower than this often cut corners or add hidden fees for services that should be included (such as cleaning the blower fan or return drop).
At Planet Duct, our pricing is transparent and fair. We charge by the square foot, with base rates starting at $499 for homes under 1,000 square feet. Get your instant online estimate and book your service today!
