Protect Yourself Against These Air Duct Cleaning Scams

Emily Fazio
·3 min read

Professional air duct cleaning and HVAC companies hold a large stake in the home improvement industry. System maintenance is often overlooked as a DIY chore, especially when it comes to cleaning the inside of a home's air ducts. Unfortunately, air duct cleaning scams are increasingly prevalent. As homeowners look to improve indoor air quality and maintain energy-efficient HVAC systems, some air duct cleaning companies take advantage of this demand by employing deceptive practices that can leave customers out of pocket and dissatisfied. These scams often involve:

  • overcharging for services

  • using high-pressure sales tactics to upsell unnecessary upgrades

  • failing to deliver quoted results

To avoid falling victim to these scams, homeowners should be mindful of the risks of hiring the wrong company, and take the time to speak with reputable members of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association. It also helps to get multiple quotes, research pricing, ask questions, and require proof of work following the air duct cleaning process.

1. Overcharging for Air Duct Services and Maintenance

Air duct cleaning services may overestimate or overcharge for their services. This tactic simply advantage of customers' lack of knowledge about the process. Learning about your home system and the overall process is the best way to protect yourself:

  • Get multiple quotes. Obtain quotes from several quality air duct cleaning companies. Speak with the foreman, contractor, or technician (whoever they send) to understand what's included so you can accurately compare costs.

  • Ask for a detailed estimate, too. Make sure they itemize what your air duct cleaning needs, and list the scope of work, materials for the job, and any additional fees or charges.

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2. High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Unfortunately, it isn't uncommon for air duct cleaning technicians to use high-pressure sales tactics. Instilling fear is one common way they pressure customers into unnecessary services or upgrades. If you feel pressured to make a decision about professional services on the spot, remember:

  • Take your time making a decision. Your system will be okay for one more day. Rarely is a cleaning, repair, or upgrade so necessary that you should feel pressured to agree to an air duct cleaning cost or recommendation on the spot. It's important to review the proposed services and consider your options.

  • Ask questions. Ask the technician questions, including why they're necessary and how they will benefit your HVAC system.

  • Get a second opinion. If you're unsure about the recommended services, get a second opinion from another air duct cleaning company or HVAC professional.

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3. Failing to Deliver a Complete and Thorough Cleaning

In some cases, air duct cleaning companies may fail to deliver altogether, leaving customers with little to no improvement in their home's air quality or HVAC system performance. Protect yourself by considering the following:

  • Ask for references before the job starts. If they're willing to share references, call those individuals before you agree to hire. A company that delivers excellent service will have legitimate customers.

  • Request proof of work. Request before-and-after photos or videos of the air ducts to verify that the cleaning was completed as promised.

  • Monitor air quality. Keep an eye on your home's air quality after the cleaning to see if there's any noticeable improvement in dust levels or indoor air freshness. Using an IAQ monitor can help, but also track other changes in your health. If allergies were an issue before, make a case if they haven't cleared.

  • Document problems. If you're unsatisfied with the results, take note of any issues and contact the air duct cleaning company. You can request a resolution, or, if necessary, a refund.