How Much Does an Air Duct Inspection Cost? [2025 Data]

Air Duct Inspection Cost Factors 

The two largest determinants of cost for an air duct inspection are the type of test performed and the amount of time it takes to perform it. While you may think there's just a simple leak, a professional may diagnose a more complicated issue that requires additional testing. 

Types

A basic visual air duct test can cost less than $100. A more reputable test, which includes smoke testing for leaks and sampling for biological growth, can cost up to $500.

The cost to test air ducts for leaks will vary among professionals. A basic smoke pencil is often used, but tests can quickly become more complicated and involve calibrated fans and air pressure monitors.

Which test you use should be at the discretion of the HVAC professional. If they believe it’s worth it to check for mold growth inside the air ducts, you should trust their expertise. The last thing you want is to pair for an inspection, cut cost corners, and continue living in contaminated air or fail to fix a preventable issue and have to shoulder any air duct replacement costs.  

Size 

The cost of an air duct inspection increases the larger your home and the more complicated your ductwork. The larger the house, the more ductwork and the more time spent finding leaks or biological growth.

Labor

An HVAC pro will charge about $80 per hour plus any transportation costs. Your labor fees will go up if you have a particularly large house or unusual ductwork layout, as it will take the pro longer to examine it.

Location 

The location of the ducts in the house will impact the cost. For example, navigating air ducts hidden through floors and walls in a ranch home with only one story would require much less work than navigating air ducts hidden in a two- or three-story house.

Expect to pay 40% more of the cost for each additional story in your home. Additionally, older homes may require special equipment to safely access the ductwork.

How Often Should You Inspect Air Ducts?

You should inspect air ducts once every two years and clean them every three to five years. However, a house in a dusty area with plenty of HVAC usage will need cleaning and inspection far more than a house that barely uses its system and has no mold risk. 

DIY Inspecting Air Ducts vs. Hiring a Pro 

An average homeowner can visually inspect the easily accessible or exposed areas of ductwork, checking for damage or leaks. However, a thorough air duct inspection should be left to a professional.

If you were shown an MRI, chances are you’ll miss something because your eye isn’t trained to recognize what might become a serious issue. The same idea applies to air duct inspection—not all problems are ones you can see. Call a local ductwork professional to make sure your ducts stay in perfect shape.

Ways You Can Save Money Inspecting Air Ducts 

You can save money on air duct inspection by scheduling your inspection outside of any powerful weather events, especially heat waves or cold snaps. This is because the same professionals may be scrambling to fix broken heating or air conditioning systems. Even if you’re able to get an appointment, you’ll pay a premium.