Air Duct Cleaning Cost in California

Professional air duct cleaning including supply ducts, return ducts, registers, and optional sanitizing treatment. In California, homeowners can expect to pay between $210 and $1,050, with the average duct cleaning costing around $394. California's mixed climate requires both heating and cooling to perform reliably year-round.

Air Duct Cleaning Price Breakdown

Repair Type	Low Estimate	High Estimate
Standard home (under 2,000 sq ft)	$210	$473
Large home (2,000-3,500 sq ft)	$368	$735
Very large home (3,500+ sq ft)	$525	$1,050
Dryer vent cleaning (add-on)	$79	$210
Sanitizing treatment (add-on)	$53	$158
Mold remediation in ducts	$525	$3,150

Factors That Affect Duct Cleaning Cost in California

1. System size and type: Larger systems and more complex equipment cost more to repair. A 5-ton system will cost more than a 2-ton unit.
2. Electricity rates: California's average electricity rate of 31.6¢/kWh affects long-term operating costs. Higher-than-average rates make efficiency upgrades more worthwhile.
3. Regional labor costs: West region costs are near the national average (+5%).
4. Climate demands: California's Climate Zone 3B (Warm-Dry) requires moderate performance from both heating and cooling.
5. Equipment age: Older systems (10+ years) may require costlier repairs due to discontinued parts. Consider our Repair or Replace Calculator to evaluate whether repair or replacement is the better investment.
6. Time of year: Best done in spring or fall when HVAC system use is lowest.

How to Save Money on Air Duct Cleaning

• Get multiple quotes: Always get 2-3 estimates from licensed contractors in California
• Schedule during off-season: Non-emergency repairs during mild weather often cost less
• Ask about rebates: Federal tax credits and California utility rebates can offset costs significantly
• Maintain regularly: Annual maintenance prevents costly breakdowns and extends equipment life
• Know when to replace: If repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost, consider upgrading. Use our Repair or Replace Calculator

California HVAC Energy Data

Metric	California	National Average
Electricity Rate	31.6¢/kWh	18.1¢/kWh
Heating Degree Days	2,500	4,000
Cooling Degree Days	1,200	1,200
Annual Heating Cost	$680	$950
Annual Cooling Cost	$420	$265
Primary Heating Fuel	Natural Gas	Natural Gas

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does duct cleaning typically cost in California?

The average cost for duct cleaning in California is $394, with most homeowners paying between $210 and $1,050 depending on the specific repair needed and parts required.

Is duct cleaning more expensive in California than other states?

West region pricing is close to the national average. Major factors include local labor rates, cost of living, and seasonal demand patterns.

When is the best time to schedule duct cleaning in California?

Best done in spring or fall when HVAC system use is lowest. Non-emergency repairs scheduled during mild weather typically cost less due to lower demand.

How can I find a reliable HVAC contractor in California?

Look for contractors who are licensed in California, insured, and have positive reviews. Get 2-3 written estimates, verify their license, and ask for references from recent jobs. Avoid contractors who give quotes without inspecting your system.

Pricing data compiled from Angi, HomeGuide, This Old House, Forbes Home, and Thumbtack (2025-2026). Energy data from U.S. Energy Information Administration. Costs are estimates and may vary by specific equipment, home conditions, and contractor. Last updated February 2026.