I had a coupon from America's Finest Duct Cleaning for $34.99 for unlimited air duct cleaning, to include one main duct, one return, one "access panel, " amd HVAC evaluation. Additionally, the coupon included a chimney cleaning special for $24.99 for first six feet. I thought duct cleaning sounded good, and although I've only used chimney sweeps in other places, thought I'd try this company out. After looking at my ventilation system (1700 s.Q. Ft house, 17 yrs old), they said that they would need to cut two "access panels" to do the cleaning (yikes!), plus maintained that I had several return, main ducts, etc.
Charges for this alone suddently went from $34.99 to $255. But the most egregious was the chimney cleaning - I have a two story house with a standard WBFP. They said it was 32 feet (which they guesstimated by having a six foot worker stand by the house) which they said would cost - no kidding! -$385 to clean! Seriously! So, total suddenly went from ~$110 to $640 (before tax). Luckily, I knew from past experience that I usually paid between 80-90 to a chimney sweep in another state, so told them I needed to check around before having ANY work done. Sure enough, called a real chimney sweep today who quoted $89 - he was absolutely floored at the first estimate, which I told him I have in writing and would be glad to show him when he comes. Haven't done any further on duct cleaning, but safe to say it shouldn't cost $255! Buyer beware!
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