How much does air conditioning duct cleaning cost? [2025]

Cleaning your air conditioning ducts might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you wake up, but it’s one of those home maintenance tasks that really makes a difference.

Air ducts are the pipes that channel air from your HVAC system to vents in your ceiling or floors, circulating cool or warm air throughout your home. Regular cleaning keeps your heating and cooling system running smoothly, improves the air quality in your home, and can even save you money in the long run.

In this guide, we’ll break down the benefits, costs, and why hiring a professional is the best option. Topics include:

• Why clean your air conditioning ducts?

• How much does air conditioning duct cleaning cost?

• What affects the cost of duct cleaning?

• When should you clean your ducts?

• Home duct cleaning vs. a professional air duct cleaning service

• Why hiring a professional duct cleaner is worth it

• Duct cleaning near me

Why clean your air conditioning ducts?

Cleaning your air conditioning ducts has multiple benefits on your health, wallet and comfort. These benefits include: 

• Improve air quality and air circulation: Over time, dust, allergens, and other contaminants build up inside your ducts. This accumulation restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder, and it can circulate harmful particles throughout your home

• Health benefits: A thorough cleaning removes dust and debris and contributes to a healthier living space. Cleaner ducts mean better air quality—something that’s great for everyone but especially for people with allergies, respiratory issues and asthma sufferer

• Save on energy costs: Cleaning your ducts also helps maintain the energy efficiency of your HVAC system. When ducts become clogged, your air conditioning unit has to work overtime to push air through, leading to higher energy bills. It can also shorten the lifespan of your system. Regular duct cleaning helps prevent this, saving you money on utility bills and avoiding costly duct repairs

• Mould removal and smells: A proper cleaning can also get rid of musty or unpleasant smells caused by stagnant air or mould, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean. it can also help stop bacteria growth

How much does air conditioning duct cleaning cost?

On average, cleaning the air conditioning ducts in a residential home can cost anywhere from $100 for a smaller system and up to $500+ for a system with 10-15 ducts. The total depends on various things including size of your system, location in Australia, access, and condition of the ducts (if it’s a basic clean or if there is mould or other issues).

Remember, to get the most accurate pricing for your area, it’s always best to contact local HVAC professionals and request quotes tailored to your specific needs. 

What affects the cost of duct cleaning?

Duct cleaning price can vary a lot depending on:

• Size of your duct system: Larger homes with more ducts require more time and effort to clean, which increases the cost

• Ductwork size: The length and size of the ducts themselves has an impact on residential duct cleaning cost

• Condition of the ducts: Ducts that haven't been cleaned for a while or are heavily soiled with dirt, dust, or mould will take more time to clean, driving up costs. Special treatments like mould remediation or sanitisation can quickly drive up the price 

• Accessibility: Ducts that are difficult to reach may require special equipment and more time to clean

• Location: Prices vary based on where you live. Urban areas with higher labour rates typically cost more. Plus, during peak seasons like summer or winter, when heating and cooling demand is high, prices might be higher 

When should you clean your ducts?

There are a few telltale signs it’s time to schedule a cleaning:

• Visible dust and debris: If you notice dust accumulating around vents or on furniture, it's time for a clean

• Worsening allergy symptoms: If your family is experiencing more allergy symptoms, it could mean your ducts are circulating allergens

• Renovations: If you’ve recently renovated your home, dust from construction can easily make its way into the ductwork

• System maintenance: Like many things in life, prevention is always better than cure. Book in for annual maintenance and cleaning to keep your air conditioning system in top notch condition

Read more: Air conditioning maintenance checklist 

Home duct cleaning vs. a professional air duct cleaning service

Cleaning your air ducts yourself is possible, but it’s messy, time-consuming, and only gets you so far without the right tools. You’ll need to unscrew vent covers, gently loosen the dust and debris inside, and vacuum what you can reach—but most household gear won’t get deep enough into long ductwork to do a thorough job.

That’s where professional ductwork cleaning comes in. The pros use high-powered vacuums and specialised equipment to clean the full length of your ducts safely and effectively, removing built-up dust, allergens, and even mould that DIY methods can miss.

Why hiring a professional duct cleaner is worth it

• Expertise and equipment: Trusted tradies use specialised tools and techniques for a thorough clean, meaning max airflow and efficiency

• Safety: Duct cleaning can be risky. Pros are trained to handle hazards like mould and tight spaces, keeping you and your property safe

• Quality assurance: Trusted tradies offer satisfaction guarantees and follow-up checks to make sure the job’s done right

Duct cleaning near me

Ready to call in the pros for your AC duct cleaning? Get free quotes here.