Air Duct & HVAC Cleaning

Clean air ducts, vents, and HVAC systems in residential and commercial buildings

Startup Cost
$20,000-$50,000
Difficulty
Intermediate
Time to Profit
6-12 months
Profit Potential
$5,000-$25,000/month

Overview

Air duct and HVAC cleaning services remove dust, allergens, and debris from heating and cooling systems improving air quality and system efficiency.

You invest in specialized vacuum equipment, cameras for inspection, cleaning tools, and truck, then market and deliver services.

Pricing typically charges per vent ($25-40) or whole-house flat rates ($300-600).

Success requires proper technique (avoiding duct damage), sales skills (convincing skeptical homeowners), and professional presentation.

Startup costs are significant - commercial duct cleaning equipment runs $10,000-30,000 plus truck and insurance.

The service is legitimate but industry has reputation challenges from scam operators offering too-good prices and upselling unnecessary services.

Honest operators differentiate through NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) certification, before/after camera footage, and education-based marketing.

Revenue comes from residential services, commercial buildings (larger projects), and post-construction cleaning.

Marketing works through direct mail, HVAC contractor partnerships, Google Ads, and seasonal campaigns (spring allergies, new homes).

Additional services include dryer vent cleaning, HVAC filter replacement programs, and mold remediation (requiring additional certification).

Challenges include equipment costs, market skepticism, and seasonal fluctuations.

Success requires professional presentation, transparent pricing, and excellent results.

Required Skills

  • HVAC Knowledge
  • Equipment Operation
  • Sales
  • Customer Education
  • Professionalism

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • High ticket services ($300-600 per house)
  • Growing awareness of air quality importance
  • Commercial buildings provide large projects
  • NADCA certification creates credibility
  • Can add complementary services

Cons

  • High equipment investment ($10K-30K)
  • Industry reputation challenges
  • Customer skepticism about value
  • Seasonal demand fluctuations
  • Competitive market

How to Get Started

  1. Get NADCA certification for credibility
  2. Purchase commercial duct cleaning equipment
  3. Invest in camera system for before/after documentation
  4. Get business insurance and required licenses
  5. Partner with HVAC contractors for referrals
  6. Market through direct mail and Google Ads
  7. Educate customers about legitimate service benefits

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