It sounded simple enough. “Free estimate.” That’s what the advertisement promised. But when the duct cleaning company showed up at this homeowner’s door, she quickly discovered that “free” didn’t mean what she thought it did.
She had responded to a $99 duct cleaning special that also advertised free estimates.
Once the technicians arrived, she learned:
- The $99 price was per room, not for the entire house
- The total cost would have been thousands of dollars
- When she declined the service, they attempted to charge her for the estimate
- She was told the estimate was only free if she hired them
That’s not a free estimate.
That’s conditional pricing — and it leaves homeowners feeling frustrated and misled.
What a Real Free Estimate Should Mean
A legitimate free estimate should include:
- No charge for the visit
- No obligation to hire
- No surprise fees
- No pressure tactics
If you owe money simply because a technician showed up — even after declining service — that’s not free.
Homeowners deserve transparency before deciding on their HVAC system.
The $99 Deal That Isn’t Really $99
Low introductory pricing is one of the most common tactics in this industry.
Here’s how it typically works:
- An ad promotes $49 or $99 duct cleaning
- The fine print reveals it’s per vent or per room
- Additional fees apply for returns, trunk lines, or sanitizing
- The final price climbs far beyond the advertised special
What appears to be a bargain can quickly turn into thousands of dollars.
Quality duct cleaning requires professional equipment, trained technicians, and the time to clean the entire HVAC system properly. If the advertised price seems too low to be realistic, it’s worth asking questions.
Why Transparency Matters in Duct Cleaning
Your HVAC system circulates the air your family breathes every day.
When choosing a duct cleaning company, you’re inviting technicians into your home and trusting them to handle a critical part of your air system.
That trust should start with honest pricing.
Companies that rely on confusion, vague advertising, or conditional “free” offers often create unnecessary stress for homeowners.
Clear pricing builds confidence. Confusion creates doubt.
How Mr. Duct Cleaner Does It Differently
At Mr. Duct Cleaner, when we say “Free Estimate,” we mean:
- We come out
- We inspect your system
- We explain what needs to be done
- We provide clear, upfront pricing
- We provide photos and sometimes video of YOUR system
- You decide
No obligation. No invoice if you say no. No hidden conditions.
Just straightforward answers and professional service.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring Any Duct Cleaning Company
Before scheduling service, ask:
- Is the estimate truly free with no obligation?
- Is the advertised price for the entire home?
- Does the price include supply and return ducts?
- Are trunk lines included?
- Will I owe anything if I choose not to proceed?
If the answers aren’t clear and direct, that’s a red flag.
Get a Truly Free Estimate — No Gimmicks
If you’re considering air duct cleaning, make sure you’re working with a company that stands behind what they advertise.
At Mr. Duct Cleaner, when we say “Free Estimate,” we mean it. No hidden conditions. No surprise invoices. No pressure tactics.
Just honest answers and straightforward pricing.
For a free estimate, contact Mr. Duct Cleaner at 844-444-DUCT or visit mrductcleaner.com.
Clean air shouldn’t come with fine print.