How Is the Air Duct Replacement Cost Calculated?

Many factors determine the air duct replacement cost. It’s usually a solid investment because if your ductwork is in good shape, your air conditioning system should be functional and efficient. In addition, AC duct replacement helps you get the most out of our indoor air quality services. To help you plan for improving your home ventilation system, the cost to replace ductwork (according to Angi) looks like this:

• Average Cost: $3,500
• Low-End Cost: $1,000
• High-End Cost: $9,000
• Typical Cost Range: $1,400 to $5,600

Factors That Determine the Cost of AC Duct Replacement

An HVAC contractor uses many variables to calculate the cost of a duct replacement project. The initial home evaluation is an important part of the planning process. It is when installers consider the following factors:

Size of Your Home (In Square Feet)

Although it’s not the only important factor, your home’s size is one of the first considerations. The larger your home, the more ductwork it likely needs and the more materials and labor required. Here’s a look at square footage vs. ductwork replacement costs:

• 1,000 to 2,000 Square Feet: $1,400 to $4,500
• 2,000 to 3,000 Square Feet: $2,800 to $6,700
• 3,000 to 4,000 Square Feet: $4,200 to $9,000

Amount of Ductwork You’re Replacing

The length and number of ducts to replace add to the total cost. Air ducts average $25 to $55 per linear foot. If you’re replacing multiple ducts, the installer may offer a bulk discount rather than add up every linear foot of duct. However, that depends on material and labor expenses. Large homes can require an extensive network of ducts, which requires more materials and time to install.

Placement of Ducts

Some parts of your home may be harder to access than others. For this reason, AC duct replacement can vary significantly in cost depending on the location of old ductwork. Exposed ducts generally cost less to replace than those in areas such as the following:

• Walls/Ceilings: $1,000 to $4,000
• Basements: $1,800 to $3,100
• Attics: $2,200 to $5,600
• Crawl Spaces: $3,000 to $7,300

What Your Ducts Are Made Of

Various ductwork materials are available. Some are more durable and expensive than others. Flexible ducts are the least costly, while sheet metal ducts are the most expensive. The costs of the most common duct material options are as follows:

• Flexible: Non-insulated ducts cost $1 to $3 per linear foot, while insulated ones cost $2 to $4 per linear foot. Flex ducts are generally easy to install but less efficient and heat tolerant. Insulated ones have a higher energy efficiency.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass ducts cost $4 to $6 per linear foot and are more durable. They’re less likely to tear than flexible ducts and don’t require as much support. However, they’re not suited for tight spaces or complex ductwork layouts.
• Sheet Metal: Highly durable and long-lasting, sheet metal ducts cost $7 to $13 per linear foot. They also last the longest. Nonetheless, the installation process can be complicated by the need for additional structural support.

Cost of Insulation

The price of insulation is also factored into the air duct replacement cost. Depending on the insulating material, you may pay $1 to $8 per square foot. But materials aren’t the only cost factor here; installing insulation requires labor, so the total cost of air duct insulation can be from $800 to $2,000. Flexible fiberglass insulation is the cheapest, at $1 to $4 per square foot. Flexible mineral wool ranges from $2 to $4 and rigid or foam board fiberglass insulation is $4 to $8 per square foot.

Labor

As with any HVAC project, labor makes up a large percentage of the cost of AC duct replacement. A contractor can have a set rate per hour. Or, labor fees may be determined by the type of duct, accessibility, materials, and other factors. You may also pay to have old equipment removed and for ductwork planning and design.

Cost of Ductwork Add-Ons

Installing ductwork often involves additional modifications. Depending on the job requirements and your home’s layout, the cost to replace ductwork may be increased by the following:

• Vents: If you add vents, expect to pay $250 to $500 for each. The number of vents needed depends on your home’s size and layout. Adding vents can improve circulation but lower the overall efficiency of your HVAC system.
• Sealing: Duct sealing, depending on whether each air leak is sealed manually or the system is treated with a powdered sealant, can range from $400 to $2,700.
• Lining: A durable protective lining called duct armor can add $5,000 to $30,000 to the air duct replacement cost.

Other Costs

Replacing ductwork can be complicated. You may pay other costs aside from installing air ducts. Those that may factor into your overall project budget include:

• Permits: Major home improvements like air duct replacement often require a permit. Depending on your municipality, obtaining a permit can cost $250 to $1,500.
• Ceiling/Drywall Repair: Breaking through walls and ceilings takes time and effort as does repairing and repainting them. Drywall repair can add over $300 to the cost of the project and ceiling repairs can cost as much as $1,200.
• Asbestos or Mold Abatement: Asbestos or mold testing can cost several hundred dollars each. If any of these problems are found, asbestos removal can add up to $2,200 and mold remediation can add up to $6,000 to the cost of AC duct replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Install Ductwork Myself?

Even if you’re good at home DIY projects, duct replacement is better left to a professional. It not only requires precise measurements and cutting. You could violate building codes and local laws, not to mention cause issues such as air leaks, reduced energy efficiency, and damage to your heating and cooling system. Trying to cut costs with DIY duct replacement can also affect your homeowner’s insurance and void the warranty on your entire HVAC system.

What Are the Alternatives to a Complete Ductwork Replacement?

If leaks or other issues are isolated to a specific duct, you can replace only the worn or damaged components. This is a cost-effective way to restore your ductwork. We can work with you to make specific improvements or replace ducts in a room or area being remodeled.

A thorough cleaning can also be an effective duct replacement alternative. If the main issue is debris, dust, or mold, a contractor can address it and the cause. A professional duct cleaning can have many benefits, including restoring optimal airflow and reducing energy bills. In addition, isolated leaks and loose connections can be sealed to address various problems.

How Can I Reduce the Air Duct Replacement Cost?

Air duct replacement can be a costly home improvement project. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities to save. You can cut costs or get more out of your investment by doing the following:

• Invest in insulated ducts to achieve long-term energy savings.
• Compare multiple quotes from reputable HVAC contractors.
• Bundle duct replacement with AC installation and other home services.

You can also reduce costs by maintaining your existing ducts, which may increase the time before air duct replacement is needed. Sealing air leaks when you discover them can limit energy loss and thus keep expenses down.

Call Trio Heating & Air Today

We provide high-quality air duct cleaning, duct sealing, and other services that can put off the cost of AC duct replacement. Our fully trained HVAC technicians also install attic and crawl space insulation, air scrubbers, and whole-house purification systems. Homeowners throughout the San Francisco Bay Area depend on us to ensure they have clean, healthy air to breathe. From air filter replacement to setting up more advanced indoor air quality equipment, our team can deliver personalized solutions to meet your needs. Call (415) 234-4728 to learn more.