As an expert in the HVAC industry, I'm often asked about the cost of installing new ductwork. It's a common question among homeowners who are looking to upgrade their heating and cooling systems or those who are building a new home. And it's no surprise, as ductwork is an essential component of any HVAC system.So, what is ductwork? It's a network of pipes or channels that distribute heated or cooled air throughout a building. It's responsible for delivering the air from your HVAC system to each room in your home.
There are two types of ductwork: supply and return. Supply ducts carry conditioned air from the HVAC system to the rooms, while return ducts bring back the air to be heated or cooled again. Both types work together to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.Now, let's get to the main question: how much does it cost to run new ductwork? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. There are several factors that can affect the cost, including the size of your home, the type of ductwork, the complexity of the installation, the accessibility of your home, and the condition of your current ductwork.According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of installing new ductwork ranges from $1,500 to $3,000.
However, this is just an estimate and can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. On the lower end, you can expect to pay around $800, while on the higher end, it can go up to $5,000. It's important to note that this cost only includes the installation of new ductwork and does not include the cost of the HVAC system itself. The total cost will also depend on the type and size of your HVAC system.Let's break down the average cost of installing new ductwork into different components: labor costs can range from $50 to $70 per hour for a professional HVAC technician; there are different types of ductwork materials such as sheet metal ($10-$20 per linear foot), flexible plastic ($1-$5 per linear foot), and fiberglass ($1-$5 per linear foot); additional materials such as screws, tape, and insulation; and permits and inspections (which can add a few hundred dollars).Aside from the cost of installation, there are other factors to consider when installing new ductwork.
These include the energy efficiency of your HVAC system (a more efficient system may cost more upfront but can save you money in the long run on your energy bills), the quality of the installation (it's crucial to hire a reputable and experienced HVAC technician), and maintenance (cleaning and inspecting every few years).In conclusion, the cost of installing new ductwork can vary depending on several factors but on average you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000. It's important to consider all factors mentioned above and work with a reputable HVAC technician to ensure a quality installation. Remember that investing in a high-quality HVAC system and proper maintenance can save you money in the long run.