Key Takeaways

Points	Information
Average Replacement Cost	$1,400 – $5,600
Cost per Duct Run (Replacement)	$270 – $500
Cost per Linear Foot (Replacement)	$25 – $55
National Average Cost	$3,500

Replacing or installing new ductwork in a home is an important investment to ensure the efficient operation of your HVAC system. The associated costs can vary significantly depending on several factors such as the size of your home, the type of ductwork, and the complexity of the installation. Here, we delve into these costs in detail.

Cost to Replace Ductwork

The cost to replace ductwork varies widely, primarily based on the size of the home.

Home Size (Square Feet)	Average Cost
1,000 – 1,500	$1,400 – $3,400
1,500 – 2,000	$2,100 – $4,500
2,000 – 2,500	$2,800 – $5,600
2,500 – 3,000	$3,500 – $6,700
3,000 – 3,500	$4,200 – $7,800
3,500 – 4,000	$4,900 – $9,000

Ductwork Cost Calculator

To better understand what you might expect to pay, here’s a quick cost breakdown:

National Average Cost	$3,500
Minimum Cost	$1,000
Maximum Cost	$8,000
Average Range	$1,400 to $5,600

New Ductwork Installation Cost

The cost of installing new ductwork varies depending on whether you are replacing existing ducts or installing new ones.

Install Type	Cost per Linear Foot	Average Cost
Ductwork Replacement	$25 – $55	$1,400 – $5,600
New Duct Installation / Retrofit	$40 – $65	$2,400 – $6,600

Commercial Ductwork Cost Per Square Foot

Installing ductwork in commercial buildings often incurs higher costs due to the complexity and scale of the project. Typical costs range from $3 to $7 per square foot for commercial properties.

Air Duct Replacement Cost

Air duct replacement costs significantly depend on the location within the home.

Interior Location	Average Cost
Crawl Space	$3,000 – $7,300
Attic	$2,200 – $5,600
Basement	$1,800 – $3,100
Mobile Home	$1,000 – $3,300

Cost to Replace Ductwork in a Crawl Space

Replacing ductwork in a crawl space can be quite costly due to accessibility issues. You might expect to pay between $3,000 and $7,300.

Cost to Replace Air Ducts in an Attic

Installing or replacing ducts in an attic ranges from $2,200 to $5,600 due to the challenges involved in navigating tight spaces and ensuring proper insulation.

Cost to Replace Ductwork in Basement

Basements are relatively easier for air duct replacement, typically costing between $1,800 and $3,100.

Exposed Ductwork Cost

Exposed ductwork, often found in loft-style spaces, may have lower installation costs due to ease of access but can vary based on design and material preferences.

Mobile Home Ductwork Cost

Mobile homes often have simpler ductwork systems, with replacement costs ranging from $1,000 to $3,300.

Cost Factors to Replace Ductwork in a House

Several factors can influence the total cost of ductwork replacement in a home.

Service	Average Cost
Home Energy Audit	$200 – $500
Adding a Vent to Existing Ductwork	$250 – $500
Duct Insulation	$800 – $2,000
Asbestos Inspection & Testing	$250 – $700
Asbestos Removal	$700 – $2,200
Mold Inspection & Testing	$200 – $650
Mold Remediation	$450 – $6,000
Permits	$50 – $250

Cost to Add a Vent to Existing Ductwork

Adding a new vent to an existing duct system can be necessary for improved airflow or to service new areas, costing between $250 and $500.

Ductwork Material Costs

Different duct materials come with varying costs and suitability for specific applications.

Duct Type	Material Cost per Linear Foot	Facts
Flexible Non-Insulated	$1 – $3	May have wire reinforcement Often covered with plastic or aluminum Lightweight and easy to install Great for tight spaces and complex layouts Prone to tears, pest infestations, & moisture damage Reduced airflow without proper installation Creates fire hazards in high-heat areas Shortest lifespan of all types
Flexible Insulated	$2 – $4	For unconditioned spaces Lightweight Can breed mold & suffer moisture damage
Fiberglass / Fiberboard	$4 – $6	Requires less supports than metal ducts Doesn’t tolerate moisture Doesn’t need additional insulation Ideal for long, straight duct lines
Sheet Metal	$7 – $13	Rigid in shape Made from galvanized steel or aluminum Best for straight duct-run lines or exposed ducts Available with fiberglass lining for insulation Mold-resistant Long lifespan Best with external duct insulation

Cost to Insulate Ductwork

Proper insulation of ductwork is vital to ensure energy efficiency and prevent heat loss.

Insulation Type	Total Cost Installed per Square Foot
Fiberglass (Flexible)	$1 – $4
Fiberglass (Rigid / Foam Board)	$4 – $8
Mineral Wool (Flexible)	$2 – $4

Cost to Move Ductwork

Moving ductwork involves labor and materials, generally costing between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the complexity of the project.

Asbestos and Mold in Air Ducts

If your home has older ductwork, it’s essential to check for hazardous materials like asbestos and mold.

Ductwork Permits and Regulations

Ensure to check local building codes and regulations before beginning any ductwork replacement or installation project. Permits can range from $50 to $250 depending on the region and scope of work.

HVAC Ductwork Installation Cost

Installing ductwork in conjunction with a new HVAC system can offer more cost efficiency.

HVAC Unit Type	HVAC Unit Cost Installed	HVAC Unit with Ductwork Cost
Central Air Conditioner	$3,300 – $5,900	$4,700 – $11,500
Furnace	$2,000 – $5,400	$3,400 – $11,000
Heat Pump	$3,800 – $8,200	$5,200 – $13,800
Geothermal Heat Pump	$15,000 – $35,000	$16,400 – $40,600

Adding Central Air Conditioning

Installation of central air conditioning ranges from $3,300 to $11,500, depending on the system’s capacity and the project’s scope.

Upgrading a Forced-Air Heating System

The costs for upgrading a forced-air heating system typically fall between $2,000 and $11,000.

Ductwork Repair Cost

Repairing existing ductwork can be a cost-effective alternative to replacement.

Repair	Average Cost
Minor Repairs	$200 – $700
Air Duct Cleaning	$300 – $700
Aeroseal Sealing	$1,300 – $2,700
Manual Sealing	$400 – $1,900
Duct Armor	$5,000 – $30,000

Air Duct Cleaning

Regular air duct cleaning can help maintain system efficiency and indoor air quality, generally costing between $300 and $700.

Duct Sealing Cost

Sealing leaks in ducts can improve efficiency and reduce energy costs.

Method	Average Cost	Features
Manual	$400 – $1,900	External Application Best for large holes or leaky connections May require cutting walls & ceilings Ideal for exposed & easy-access ducts
Aerosol	$1,300 – $2,700	Internal Application Seals cracks up to 5/8 inches wide Seals entire duct interior Best for hard-to-reach places

Duct Armor Cost

Duct Armor entails a specialized internal coating designed to restore and protect aging duct systems, typically ranging from $5,000 to $30,000.

Ductwork Replacement FAQs

What is Ductwork?

Ductwork refers to the system of ducts used for air distribution in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

How Long Does It Take to Replace Ductwork?

Replacing ductwork can take anywhere from a few days to over a week, depending on the project’s complexity and home size.

How Often Should Ductwork Be Replaced?

Ductwork generally needs replacement every 15 to 20 years, although this can vary based on material and usage.

Does Ductwork Need to Be Insulated?

Yes, duct insulation is critical to prevent heat loss during air distribution and improve energy efficiency.

Can You Use Flex Ducts in a Crawl Space?

Yes, flex ducts can be used in a crawl space, though proper installation and insulation are crucial to prevent damage and maintain efficiency.

Do You Need to Replace Ductwork When Replacing an AC Unit?

It is advisable to inspect and, if necessary, replace ductwork when installing a new AC unit to ensure the system’s overall efficiency.

Do Heat Pumps Require Ductwork?

Yes, traditional heat pumps require ductwork to distribute heat throughout the home. Ductless systems are also available.

Can I Install My Own Ductwork?

While homeowners can install their own ductwork, it is highly recommended to hire a professional due to the complexity and need for precise installation to ensure efficiency.

Hiring a Professional Duct Installer

Employing a professional to install or replace ductwork ensures the job is done correctly and complies with building codes.

Questions to Ask Duct Installers

When hiring a professional, consider asking the following questions:

• Are you licensed and insured?
• Can you provide references or testimonials?
• What is included in your estimate?
• How long will the project take?
• What materials will you use?
• Do you offer a warranty for your work?

With careful consideration and thorough planning, replacing or installing new ductwork can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency and indoor air quality.