Air ducts are the hidden corridors that silently circulate freshly heated or cooled air throughout your home. While air duct cleaning and repair lengthens its life span, ductwork typically needs major replacement every 15 years to work properly. The national average cost for full ductwork replacement is $1,450–$8,000; however, the cost can range anywhere from $250–$12,000 depending on home size, system accessibility, and materials used. We explain air duct replacement cost factors and offer saving tips below.

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What Factors Affect Air Duct Replacement Cost?

Ductwork installation costs can run from $250 per duct all the way to $550 per duct. On top of labor costs, many contractors charge additional fees to remove the existing system, install new vents and registers, seal system leaks, add insulation, or make sheet metal repairs. 

Consider these other cost factors:

• Material: HVAC professionals often use aluminum, galvanized steel, or fiberglass ductwork. Generally, steel costs the most, and aluminum the least.
• Location: Hard-to-access home ductwork in a crawl space, attic, or ceiling may increase the project’s total cost. 
• House size: The larger your home, the more expensive your air duct replacement project will be. Larger homes with multiple floors also cost more to service than single-story homes.

Cost by Material

The type of ductwork material you choose affects your overall cost.

Cost by Location

Where you need to install HVAC ductwork actually influences the project’s price.

Mobile Home

It costs between $1,000 and $2,900 to install ductwork in a mobile home. Small mobile homes may cost even less. The low price is due to the ductwork’s relatively easy access. However, a mobile home’s ductwork must be insulated carefully, which could increase your bottom line.

Crawl Space

The crawl space is often cramped and difficult to access. Contractors may need special tools to work in this area. Consequently, ductwork in this area can run $2,200–$6,000. Cleaning the crawl space before your contractor comes can save you money.

Attic

An organized, easy-to-access attic is most contractors’ dream location for an HVAC ductwork job. The extra space—along with those handy, pull-down stairs—makes the work easier on the technicians. Because attics are not usually climate-controlled, the ductwork may require heavy insulation, which increases overall project costs to $1,450–$4,650.

Basement

An unfinished basement is one of the cheapest places to replace ductwork, at a low of just $1,300. However, your costs could go up to $4,500 or more if your basement is essentially a finished lower floor.

Wall

Cutting into a finished wall to get at the existing ductwork is expensive. Not only do the technicians have to do the work, but they also have to repair the damaged drywall. If they need to cut extra holes for vents, expect to spend $4,000 or more.

Cost by House Size

Homes with greater square footage require more linear feet of ductwork. Here’s how that breaks down.

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What Are Additional Air Duct Replacement Costs?

Air duct replacement can include more than the material and installation costs. You may also pay for new insulation, vent installation, and mold remediation if necessary. 

Depending on your location, a permit may be required to replace your home’s air ducts. This can cost a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Installing Vents

Vents are the outlets that circulate air throughout a home. You need enough vents to keep airflow equal throughout the house. Vent cost varies depending on its type and size. They average $200–$250 each, but some specialty vents can cost up to $500 each.

Insulation

Insulation helps keep air at a constant temperature while in transit and prevents it from escaping into areas that can cause energy loss. Insulation is also essential to reduce noise coming from the HVAC system. 

The cost of insulating your ductwork depends on material type and ductwork size, but expect basic insulation to add $1–$6 per linear foot to your total project. Costs may partly depend on whether you use fiberglass insulation, preformed duct insulation, or blown-in insulation.

Mold Remediation

Mold in the air ducts can lead to additional costs beyond the air duct replacement. If your home has a history of water damage or other moisture problems, you should test for mold prior to installing new ductwork.

Testing for mold usually costs $250–$700, while removal and remediation can cost $975–$4,250 or more. The cost of mold remediation depends on the infestation severity, how long it has been present, and how much work is required to address the issue.

Permits

Replacing air ducts is usually considered a major home improvement project and may require permits to ensure the work is completed properly and meets local building codes. Permit cost varies by location.

Repairs

Additional repairs may be needed before or after the air duct installation—either to the actual ductwork or other things related to the installation.

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DIY vs. Professional Air Duct Replacement

You can hire a professional to replace your air ducts or decide to go the do-it-yourself (DIY) route. The cost of each approach depends on your air duct’s type and size and the job’s complexity. Both options have pros and cons. Do your research and consider all factors before deciding which is best for your home.

Professional Air Duct Replacement

If you decide to hire a professional for your air duct replacement project, it’s important to choose an experienced contractor who is qualified and certified. A professional air duct replacement service should include the following: 

• Evaluation of your existing air ducts, including an inspection of their condition and the material types used. 
• Removal of any existing materials, including insulation, vents, and old ductwork. 
• Installation of new ducts, along with new vents and insulation where needed. 

Using a professional ensures that the job will be done right, saving you time and money in the long run. Professional installation can also help reduce energy costs by ensuring that the air duct system is properly sealed and insulated. 

The downside of hiring a professional is the cost. Professional services can range anywhere from $17.50 to nearly $32 per linear foot, depending on the job’s complexity and the amount of material being replaced. Get quotes from multiple contractors to ensure you’re getting the best price. 

DIY Air Duct Replacement

In many states, it’s illegal to replace your air ducts unless you’re an HVAC contractor with the proper license. 

If you are licensed for the job, replacing air ducts yourself is a great way to save money—as long as you have the proper tools and knowledge. Replacing air ducts is a complex and potentially dangerous job, so it’s best to hire somebody if you’re not confident in your abilities.

To replace air ducts yourself, you’ll need sheet metal, hangers and straps, vent boots, duct sealant, insulation, and duct tape. You’ll also need basic tools such as a saw, hammer, drill, screwdriver, and level. You may also need specialized tools depending on the type of ducts being replaced.

The biggest disadvantage of replacing air ducts yourself is that it’s a labor-intensive and difficult task. Additionally, a job that’s done improperly can cause air leaks, air pressure issues, or even health risks from mold growth or poor insulation. 

If you choose to replace the air ducts yourself it’s critical to research the process thoroughly and have a good understanding of what you’re doing before getting started.

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How To Hire a Professional To Replace Your Air Ducts

Finding a reliable professional to replace your air ducts is essential. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision: 

• Research contractors in your area to find one that is certified and experienced.
• Get multiple quotes from different companies before making a decision.
• Read online reviews and ask friends and family for referrals.
• Make sure that the contractor you choose has the right licenses and insurance.
• Ask questions to get a better understanding of the project’s scope, timeline, and required materials.
• Make sure the contractor provides an estimate before starting the project and confirm the timeline and cost before proceeding. 
• Consider signing a contract to protect yourself from any potential issues or disagreements.

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Our Conclusion

Replacing your air ducts is a great way to improve indoor air quality and lower utility bills. Air duct replacement cost depends on factors such as location, home size, and building material. Additional factors, such as installing vents or insulation, can also add to the bottom line. Depending on the job’s scope, replacing air ducts may require permits and repairs that can boost the overall cost. 

If you’re properly qualified and hold a contractor’s license, air duct replacement can be done as a DIY project. Otherwise, you need to hire a professional. To save money, you’ll want to compare estimates from several experienced, licensed contractors. Replacing air ducts is worth the investment, as it can improve your home’s air quality and energy efficiency.

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FAQ About Air Duct Replacement

How often should air ducts be replaced?

Your home’s ductwork should last an average of 10–15 years before any significant problems arise. Homes can experience pest infestations, cracks, and collapsed ducts if repairs are not made on time.

How do I know if air ducts need to be replaced?

Whistling in your heating and cooling system indicates ductwork damage or vent clogging. Other common warning signs that it’s time to replace or repair the ducts include the following:

• Hot and cold spots in your home
• Extremely high energy bills
• Unpleasant odors wafting out of your dampers
• Pest infestation

What are the benefits of replacing air ducts?

Replacing air ducts provides many benefits. First, you reduce your carbon footprint and energy bills. Second, you improve your home’s air quality. Finally, you increase your own thermoregulation, possibly leading to a longer, healthier life for you and your family.

How long does it take to replace ductwork?

Replacing ductwork should take approximately two or three days (8–10 hours per day), which equals around 30 hours of labor. Expect your replacement or repair costs to encompass more than just labor fees once taxes, permits, and other expenditures are taken into account.

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