How Much Does Duct Replacement Cost? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

Duct replacement cost averages $1,251 nationwide, with most homeowners spending between $453 to $2,184. Prices vary based on the size of your duct system, material choice, and labor rates. Expect to pay $10 to $25 per linear foot for new ductwork, including removal and installation.

Duct replacement matters because it restores your HVAC system’s efficiency, improves comfort, and protects your indoor air quality. In this guide, we’ll break down every cost factor so you know what to expect before starting your project.

Duct Replacement Installation Cost Factors

Several factors come together to determine your final duct replacement cost.

Project Size

Replacing ducts means swapping out the entire network that distributes heated or cooled air throughout your home. The total size of your ductwork has a significant impact on your replacement cost.

The more square footage your home has, the more ductwork you’ll need. Most residential homes have between 150 and 350 linear feet of ductwork, with larger or multi-story homes requiring more. Duct size should match your HVAC system’s capacity to ensure even airflow and efficiency. If your home is 1,000 square feet or less, you’ll pay much less than if you have a sprawling 3,000 square foot house.

Home layout, the number of rooms, and how many HVAC zones you have all affect how much ductwork you’ll need. Adding rooms or finishing a basement will increase the amount of ductwork required. If you remove walls or combine spaces, your duct needs may decrease, but modifications can still drive up costs due to reconfiguration.

Duct Type

The type of duct you choose influences your cost, system performance, and long-term durability. Let’s explore the common duct types and their impact on your budget.

Flexible ducts, sheet metal ducts, fiberglass, and fiberboard are the most common options. Each material varies in cost, installation complexity, durability, and energy efficiency. Flexible ducts are easier and less expensive to install, while sheet metal offers superior longevity and airflow.

Custom ductwork is sometimes needed in historic homes, homes with unique layouts, or when matching nonstandard existing ducts. Custom fabrication increases both material and labor costs. Expect to pay up to 50% more for specialty ductwork due to extra design, ordering, and installation steps.

Insulated ducts cost more upfront but improve energy efficiency and comfort by reducing heat loss or gain. Insulation can add $2 to $4 per linear foot. In colder or hotter climates, this upgrade pays off with lower energy bills and better temperature control.

Location

Where you live—and where your ducts are inside your home—plays a big role in total replacement cost. Duct replacement cost varies based on labor rates, material prices, and climate. Urban areas and regions with high labor demand, like the Northeast or coastal California, tend to cost more. Material availability and local codes also affect pricing.

In-Home Location

Ducts in attics, crawl spaces, or behind finished walls are harder to access, which increases labor costs. Multi-story homes or homes with ducts running through tight spaces require more time and specialized equipment, adding to the total price. Accessibility can make a straightforward job more complex if significant demolition or repairs are needed.

Labor

HVAC professionals charge $50 to $150 per hour, depending on region and experience. Labor may also be billed per linear foot, with rates of $5 to $10 per foot for installation alone. Larger homes, complex layouts, and hard-to-reach ducts increase labor hours and total cost. Urban areas and high-demand seasons push rates higher.

Most duct replacement projects require a licensed HVAC contractor. For complex jobs, you may also need a general contractor, carpenter, or electrician—especially if ducts pass through structural walls or near electrical wiring.

Permits

Many municipalities require permits for duct replacement, particularly if the work involves structural changes or new HVAC equipment. Permit fees range from $50 to $400, depending on your location. Inspections are often needed to ensure code compliance. Skipping permits can result in fines and problems when selling your home.

Additional Features

Some homeowners use duct replacement as an opportunity to add zoning systems, install smart vents, or upgrade to allergen-reducing materials. Sealing and insulating new ducts further boosts performance. Adding new registers or grilles can improve airflow and appearance but increases cost.

Project Complexity

Duct systems with multiple zones, custom layouts, or hard-to-reach sections take more time and labor to replace. Removing and disposing of old ducts, especially if they contain asbestos or mold, adds to the total cost. Accessing ducts behind walls, floors, or ceilings may require costly repairs.

Accessibility

Ducts in tight crawl spaces, finished basements, or attics are more labor-intensive to replace. Obstacles like plumbing, wiring, or limited headroom often require extra charges.

Site Preparation and Cleanup

Preparing the site, protecting flooring, and cleaning up debris after installation are sometimes included in the quote, but not always. Expect to pay $150 to $500 for thorough cleanup and debris removal.

Design and Inspection Fees

If your project requires HVAC system redesign or airflow balancing, there may be design fees from $200 to $600. Post-installation inspections cost an additional $100 to $300 but ensure your system is safe and efficient.

Ongoing Duct Costs

When budgeting for duct replacement, keep these extra costs in mind.

Warranties

Manufacturer warranties cover defects in duct materials, while installer warranties cover workmanship. Extended warranties add to the upfront cost but provide peace of mind by covering repairs for several years. Always ask what’s included and how claims are handled.

Operating Costs

New ductwork reduces air leaks and improves airflow, which can lower your heating and cooling bills by 10% to 30%. Efficient ducts mean your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard, saving you money month after month.

Maintenance

Plan to have your ducts inspected and cleaned every three to five years. Annual maintenance costs range from $200 to $500. Well-maintained ducts last longer and help your HVAC system run efficiently.

Taxes

Sales tax may apply to both materials and labor, depending on your state or municipality. Rates and exemptions vary widely, so check with your installer or local tax authority to avoid surprises.

Insurance

Homeowners insurance may cover duct replacement if the damage is caused by a covered event, such as fire, water, or storms. To file a claim, document the damage and work with your insurer to understand your deductible and coverage limits.

DIY Duct Replacement vs. Hiring a Pro

You may consider replacing ducts yourself, but there are important trade-offs to weigh. DIY duct replacement costs less up front—just the price of materials ($10 to $25 per linear foot), tools, and disposal. However, you’ll need to rent or buy specialized equipment. Hiring a local ductwork pro costs more but includes labor, expertise, and warranty protection.

DIYers need strong mechanical skills, a thorough understanding of HVAC systems, and the ability to safely handle sheet metal, insulation, and sealants. Essential tools include tin snips, a drill, a saw, safety gear, and a duct crimper.

A professional team can replace ducts in one to three days. DIY projects often take longer, especially if you encounter surprises behind walls or in tight spaces. Improper installation can cause air leaks, code violations, and reduced system performance.

DIY work may void manufacturer or installer warranties and fail inspections. For most homeowners, it’s best to hire a licensed HVAC professional to ensure safety, efficiency, and lasting results.

Duct Replacement vs. Repair

Deciding between repairing and replacing your ducts depends on the extent of damage and the age of your system. Repair is an option for minor leaks, small holes, or isolated damage. If your ducts are rusted, collapsed, moldy, or made of hazardous materials like asbestos, full replacement is the safest and most effective choice.

Duct repair costs $300 to $1,000. If repair costs approach 50% of the price of full replacement, or if your system is old and inefficient, replacement is the better investment.

Consider the age of your ductwork, warranty status, and whether your HVAC system is compatible with newer, more efficient ducts. Replacement delivers long-term benefits like energy savings, better airflow, and improved air quality.

Does Duct Replacement Add Value to Your Home?

Upgrading your ducts can pay off in multiple ways. Duct replacement projects have a typical ROI of 50% to 70%. New ducts increase your home’s value and appeal to buyers seeking energy-efficient, healthy homes.

Replacing leaky or poorly insulated ducts can lower heating and cooling costs by up to 30%. You’ll notice more consistent temperatures and cleaner air.

New ducts eliminate hazards like mold, asbestos, or collapsing sections. Your HVAC system will function better and be ready for future upgrades, while hidden or streamlined ducts can improve your home’s aesthetics.

Tips to Reduce Cost While Replacing Ducts

There are several ways to keep your dishwater repair project budget-friendly without sacrificing quality or safety. Taking these steps can help you save money:

• Obtain multiple quotes from ductwork pros to compare pricing and services.

• Schedule duct replacement during off-peak seasons for better rates

• Choose wallet-friendly materials with proven durability.

• Prepare for replacement yourself, such as clearing old ductwork if possible, to reduce overall project cost.

• Bundle duct replacement with other HVAC upgrades to take advantage of package discounts.

• Schedule regular maintenance to avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your ductwork.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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