How much does Air duct repair cost?

Homes with central air conditioning or heating systems use a network of air ducts to circulate conditioned air to rooms. This HVAC ductwork connects the heating and AC unit to vents and grilles in room walls, ceilings, or floors to deliver warm or cold air throughout the house. 

The most common types of ductwork are flexible—or “flex duct”—and rigid metal, a rectangular or round metal tube measuring 4- to 12-inches in diameter, often wrapped in insulation. Lengths of ductwork range from 5–25 feet long. Flexible ducts are less durable than rigid metal types.

Ductwork is often damaged over time. It can become brittle from constant expansion and contraction caused by heating and cooling, eventually breaking down or pulling apart at the joints between ducts—and spewing expensive conditioned air into unoccupied spaces. 

Because ducts are often located in crawl spaces or the attic, they can also be bent or damaged by stored boxes or materials. And animals can burrow in or nest on them when seeking warmth during winter cold. All of these things can cause ducts to become bent, blocked, dislodged, or leaky.

When a branch of duct material becomes damaged or leaky, the system’s energy efficiency and ability to maintain airflow are reduced, resulting in inefficient heating and cooling and higher utility bills. 

Damage can also affect your indoor air quality, as pollutants from crawl spaces, attics, and other unfinished parts of the house can enter into the indoor air stream. (See How much does air duct cleaning cost?) 

For these reasons, homeowners should promptly repair a damaged duct system. Air duct repair and replacement is a difficult job that’s best left to an air duct repair professional. 

The following are national average costs to diagnose, repair, or replace damaged ductwork:

Duct leakage testing. This may be required to locate leaky or damaged areas in ducts. This service costs $250–425 and is only offered by some HVAC contractors. The technician will seal the entire ductwork system, then pressurize it. Air that escapes from the system indicates a leak or damage of some kind. 

Ductwork repairs. HVAC contractors are the best pros for ductwork system repair. However, an experienced handyperson may be able to apply simple fixes, like using duct tape or duct mastic (a waterborne sealant) to fill seams and stop leaks in ductwork.

The national average cost of air duct repairs ranges from $125–350, including materials and labor costs. Some easy repairs may be even cheaper. An easy-to-access duct patched by a handyperson could cost $75–150.

Ductwork replacement. Metal ductwork is installed in sections. If several feet of a ductwork “run”—or length—has been crumpled or badly damaged, consider having it replaced by a section of new ductwork instead of trying to repair the damage. An HVAC contractor can cut out the damage and splice a new section of ductwork onto old ducts. This is not a DIY project as it requires special skills and tools. 

The average cost of air duct replacement runs in the $350–800 range for a “branch” of flex duct. Duct replacement costs can rise to $800–2,000+ when multiple rigid metal ductwork sections need replacement, or if the main “trunkline” (the largest central run) of existing ductwork is damaged.

If you plan to replace most of your home’s ductwork, installation costs can range from $1,500–5,000+. When priced by the linear foot, expect to pay $6–23 per linear foot, depending on the type of duct and ease of access. 

Mold inspections and removal. If you suspect mold inside your home’s ductwork because of a mildew-like odor in several rooms—or because household members seem to have perpetually irritated noses and throats—you should have it addressed immediately. Mold inspections usually cost $100–350, and remediation (removal) ranges from $1,200–6,000+, depending on the extent of the mold growth and whether it’s limited to the ductwork. 

A few factors can contribute to the overall cost of duct system repair. 

Here are some ways to save money on air duct repairs. 

How much does it cost to repair home ductwork?

Minor damage to home ductwork can be repaired for an average of $125–350. In many cases, one or more ducts might need to be replaced. Duct installation (with parts and labor) can cost $350–800 for a 10- to 15-foot “branch” for flex duct, or up to $800–2,000 for the replacement of multiple, rigid metal ducts. 

Can I replace ductwork myself?

While it’s possible for homeowners to perform this repair, it can be a difficult job that will test your resolve. In most cases, hiring a qualified HVAC pro is the right choice. They’ll be able to quote ductwork costs, determine where leakage is occurring, and perform top-quality repairs or a new ductwork installation, if necessary. 

How often should ductwork be replaced?

The ductwork for most heating and cooling systems may require replacement every 10–15 years, but wait until its condition demands replacement. Some homes can go longer, with the upper limit of ductwork lifespan typically reaching the 20–25 year range. 

Find an air duct cleaning professional in your area.