You may have seen advertisements claiming a full air duct cleaning for just $99. While this may seem like a great deal, the reality is far from it. In most cases, these companies use high-pressure sales tactics to convince homeowners to pay for additional services or, even worse, perform shoddy cleaning work that can cause more harm than good.
How the Scam Works
The “$99 Air Duct Cleaning” scam operates by publishing advertisements, attracting naive (or stingy) homeowners with its low $99 offer. When the so-called “technicians” arrive to provide the service, they inspect the air ducts. They often use scare tactics, such as showing homeowners supposed examples of mold or other contamination, to convince them to purchase additional services. These services can range from cleaning the furnace and air conditioner to sanitizing the entire ventilation system, and they range in cost from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
It’s difficult to say that all “$99 Air Duct Cleaning” offers are scams, as some companies may offer legitimate services at that price. However, we will use an example to show the inconsistency of providing quality air duct cleaning service for $99.
How to Avoid the Scam
Simple arithmetic:
The duration of a quality ductwork cleaning of a typical average 1800-3000 sq. ft. home, with two technicians working simultaneously, takes an average of 3 to 6 hours, depending on the number of supply and return ducts, the degree of contamination, and the design features of the ductwork and HVAC system.
- Calculate how much a company should pay one technician for 3 to 6 hours of work. Multiply by 2 (technicians);
- add consumables here (sanitizing, anti-mold solution, deodorant, gloves, protective masks);
- add the amortization deductions for the equipment;
- add transportation costs (gas, amortization);
- add payroll taxes;
- add the cost of advertising (one click on Google Ads can cost up to $50);
- add the organizational costs of the company;
How much did you end up with? Close to $99?!
What advice can we give? Don’t be naive – free cheese comes only in a mousetrap! A professional air duct cleaning should cost several hundred dollars, not just $99. Expect to pay between $250 and $1,000 for services, and more in some cases.
To avoid falling victim to the “$99 Air Duct Cleaning Scam”, it is essential to research and finds a reputable and trustworthy company.
At ProGeneralService, we are committed to providing our clients with high-quality and reliable air duct cleaning services. We never use high-pressure sales tactics or scare tactics, and our certified technicians use only the best equipment to ensure a thorough and effective cleaning.
This is why we are speaking out against the prevalent issue of air duct cleaning scams, particularly the “$99 Air Duct Cleaning Scam.”
Our company offers a free quote for your home. Unlike many companies, our technicians will honestly tell you whether your home’s ductwork needs cleaning. We’ll thoroughly inspect your ductwork and HVAC system and give you a free estimate.
