Duct cleaning has never been shown to actually prevent health problems. Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts. This is because much of the dirt in air ducts adheres to duct surfaces and does not necessarily enter the living space.

Whether air duct cleaning is worth the cost depends on your specific situation. If you're noticing signs that your air quality could be better, or it's been a long time since the last cleaning, it might be a wise investment. Remember, keeping your air ducts clean is part of maintaining a healthy, efficient home.

An air duct cleaning company will most likely charge around $90 to $125 per hour. Most jobs take between three and eight hours. Some contractors also charge per vent, with the average cost being around $25 to $50 per vent. Anything that increases the job's time or difficulty may incur extra fees.

The cost of an air duct cleaning in Columbus varies and normally ranges anywhere from around $300 to over $1000 for an overall cleaning of the central air conditioner.