Ductwork replacement cost
Replacing the ductwork in a house costs $1,400 to $5,600, about $3,500 on average, or $25 to $55 per linear foot. Installing ducts in a home that has none costs $2,400 to $6,600 ($40 to $65 per linear foot).
Quick answer
$1,400 – $5,600replace existing ductwork
Most duct replacements cost $1,400 to $5,600. Partial jobs start near $1,000; large homes with hard-to-reach crawl spaces reach $9,000.
Cost by home size
| Home size (sq ft) | 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 |
Cost by location
| Location | Cost |
|---|---|
| Basement | $1,800 – $3,100 |
| Attic | $2,200 – $5,600 |
| Crawl space | $3,000 – $7,300 |
| Mobile home | $1,000 – $3,300 |
Cost by material
| Material | Material cost per linear foot |
|---|---|
| Flexible, non-insulated | $1 – $3 |
| Flexible, insulated | $2 – $4 |
| Fiberglass duct board | $4 – $6 |
| Sheet metal (galvanized steel or aluminum) | $7 – $13 |
Related costs
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Minor duct repairs | $200 – $700 |
| Add a vent to existing ducts | $250 – $500 |
| Duct insulation | $800 – $2,000 |
| Duct sealing | $400 – $2,700 |
| Asbestos testing | $250 – $700 |
| Asbestos removal | $700 – $2,200 |
| Permits | $50 – $250 |
When ducts need replacing
- Ducts are 15 to 25 years old or flex duct is sagging, crushed or torn
- Some rooms are always too hot or cold, or airflow is weak
- Visible mold, pests or heavy dust that keeps coming back
- You're installing a new, larger or higher-efficiency system
The Department of Energy estimates a typical home loses about 20% to 30% of the air moving through its ducts to leaks and poor connections. Sealing may fix the problem without full replacement.
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace ductwork in a house?
About $1,400 to $5,600, with an average near $3,500, or $25 to $55 per linear foot.
How much does new ductwork cost in a house without ducts?
About $2,400 to $6,600, or $40 to $65 per linear foot, plus wall and ceiling repairs.
How long does ductwork last?
About 15 to 25 years for flex duct; well-sealed sheet metal can last longer.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.