Scheduling a commercial duct cleaning or residential HVAC cleaning service every few years is a smart way to maintain low energy levels and great indoor air quality. However, duct cleaning scams continue to rise, with fake companies posing as certified duct cleaning services and offering lower-than-normal prices to attract customers.
There are numerous duct cleaning scams on the market today, particularly in Florida. If you don’t know how to spot them, you could end up losing a lot of money and compromising the integrity of your HVAC systems.
In this post, we will expose some of the most common duct cleaning scams to avoid and direct you to the right resources for professional duct cleaning services in Florida.
5 Air Duct Cleaning Scams and How to Avoid Them
Air duct cleaning is a valuable service that can improve your indoor air quality, reduce allergens, and boost HVAC efficiency. However, the industry has its share of shady operators seeking to make a quick profit.
To protect your home or business, it’s essential to recognize the signs of scams and learn how to avoid them.
Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals
You see an ad online or in the mail: “Whole-house air duct cleaning for $49!” It sounds like a steal, until the technician shows up. They’ll either do a rushed 10-minute “cleaning” (just vacuuming visible vents) or begin aggressively upselling you services like mold removal, sanitizer treatments, or dryer vent cleaning, claiming they’re necessary.
How to Avoid It:
- Understand that the cost of legitimate duct cleaning depends on the size of your home or business. Costs are usually tailored to your specific situation and not a one-size-fits-all.
- Get multiple quotes to understand the average market rate.
- Ask about what’s included in the advertised price; if it’s just a “basic cleaning,” that’s a sure red flag.
Fake Certifications and Industry Affiliations
The company website features impressive-looking logos and badges, often claiming affiliation with HVAC organizations you may not have heard of. These credentials are either completely fake or irrelevant. Some even forge NADCA certificates.
How to Avoid It:
- Only trust companies certified like Ties360 that are certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).
- Visit nadca.com and use their directory to confirm a company’s membership.
- Request proof of certification and verify that the names, logos, and credentials match.
Full Payment Demands Before the Work Begins
Fake technicians may ask you to pay the entire cost before the service even starts. Once payment is made, the technician may rush through the job, leave it incomplete, or, worse, fail to show up at all.
How to Avoid It:
- Reputable companies may require a small deposit, but never full payment upfront.
- Always pay using traceable methods, such as a credit card, not cash, Venmo, or wire transfer.
- Read the contract or service agreement carefully before signing or making a payment.
Scare Tactics and High-Pressure Sales
A fake technician may try to scare you into parting with more money by fabricating lies about the state of your vents. Once in your home or office, the technician insists they’ve found dangerous contaminants, such as “toxic mold,” “dead rodents,” or “hazardous buildup.” They will then encourage you to pay for immediate upgrades, claiming that your health is at risk if you delay.
How to Avoid It:
- Don’t panic. Instead, ask for visual proof, such as photos or video from inside the ducts.
- Legitimate mold remediation requires lab testing and professional handling, not a fogging spray.
- Take your time. A reputable provider will provide you with the facts and allow you to make an informed decision. You can also seek a second or third opinion to be certain.
Sudden Price Increases Due to “Unforeseen Problems”
Some scam technicians will provide you with a fair quote over the phone. But once the tech begins work, they “discover” damaged ductwork, blockages, or contamination, sometimes fabricated and dramatically increase the price before continuing.
How to Avoid It:
- Request a written estimate before any work commences.
- If a technician identifies a legitimate issue, they should pause the job and walk you through the problem, using pictures or video.
- Don’t approve extra charges unless you understand and agree to them in writing.
Signs of a Reputable Duct Cleaning Service
Here are some telltale signs you’re dealing with a reputable and authentic air duct cleaning service.
- NADCA Certification
Certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), ensuring the company follows strict industry standards.
- Proper Equipment and Tools
Uses commercial-grade vacuums, rotary brushes, and HEPA filtration systems, not basic shop vacs.
- Before-and-After Photos
Provides visual proof of the work completed, showing duct conditions before and after cleaning.
- Clear and Transparent Pricing
Offers detailed, written estimates upfront with no hidden fees or surprise charges.
- Responsive and Professional Communication
Answers questions clearly, shows up on time, and maintains a professional demeanor throughout the service.
- Detailed Service Report
Delivers a written summary of the work performed, including findings and any recommendations for maintenance.
- No High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Doesn’t use scare tactics or push you into unnecessary services or upgrades.
- Includes a Full System Cleaning
Cleans the entire duct system, including vents, returns, grilles, and (if requested) HVAC components, not just surface-level work.
- Positive Reviews and Verified References
Backed by consistently high ratings, genuine testimonials, and a strong reputation in the community.
Avoid Duct Cleaning Scams and Get Free Duct Inspections for Scam Victims
At Ties360, we bring decades of proven expertise in commercial air duct cleaning for businesses, hospitals, schools, and public facilities across Florida. Our team of NADCA-certified technicians is trained to deliver high-quality results using state-of-the-art equipment and industry-leading techniques.
Whether you’re managing a large facility or a small office, we tailor every service to your specific needs, ensuring cleaner air, improved system efficiency, and full compliance with health standards.
Been a victim of an air duct cleaning scam? We’re here to help. Ties360 proudly offers free inspections for Florida residents and businesses who suspect they’ve been misled by dishonest providers. We’ll assess your system honestly and recommend only what you truly need.
Schedule a quick consultation today and get the expert support your commercial property deserves.