How Much Does Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost In 2025?

Ever noticed your dryer taking longer to dry clothes getting hotter than usual?

This might not be your dryer’s fault, but your dryer vent crying out for a clean.

You see, dryer vent cleaning isn’t something most of us think about often. But this is one job that makes a huge difference. 

So much so that it helps your dryer run better, lowers your energy bill, and even prevents fire hazards in your home.

But how much does dryer vent cleaning cost, you might ask?

The short answer is, it depends. 

Most people in the country pay between $100 and $150. However, the price can go higher if the vent is on the roof or needs extra work. 

Talking about New Jersey, you might find some great flat-rate deals here which can be a huge saver. 

In this guide, I break it all down, including:

• What you can expect to pay
• What makes the price go up or down
• Whether DIY is worth it or not
• What homeowners out there are actually paying 
• And how to avoid getting ripped off

So, let’s get started. 

Key takeaways

• Dryer vent cleaning usually costs $100-$150 nationwide. New Jersey professionals offer flat rates starting around $89 for simple jobs.
  
• Vents on the roof or second floor cost more due to safety and equipment needs.
  
• Heavy lint buildup or bird nests can add $100-$200 extra.
  
• DIY is cheaper for easy, short vents; but professionals are better for long, roof, or clogged vents.
  
• Base price covers lint removal, vent cap check, and airflow test; but extras like nest removal or duct repair cost more.
  
• Clean your dryer vent annually, or more often if you do heavy laundry or notice slow drying.

How much does dryer vent cleaning cost? (national average)

The average cost of dryer vent cleaning is between $100 and $150 across the country. But depending on your setup, it could be less or a lot more.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Let’s have a closer look at these prices. 

1. Basic ground-level vent: $75 – $130

If your dryer vent is on the first floor and easy to reach from outside, you’re likely to spend the least. That’s because this is the most straightforward job that requires no ladders and or working in tight corners. 

Here, most professionals charge a flat rate in the range of $75 – $130 because it’s quick and low-risk.

You’re essentially paying for the technician’s time, tools, and the peace of mind that your dryer is running safely and efficiently again.

2. Second-story or hard-to-reach vent: $130 – $200

Let’s say your vent runs through a wall and exits on the second floor. Or maybe it is behind heavy appliances or tight spaces.

Now, in these cases you can expect to pay a bit more. After all, thorough cleaning might require longer hoses, extra time, or even partial disassembly of parts to reach the vent. 

Still, for under $200, it’s a smart investment to prevent potential fire hazards or dryer damage from poor airflow.

3. Roof-mounted vent (needs ladders and safety equipment): $150 – $250+

When your vent exits through the roof, the job becomes more complicated. Here, the cleaner needs to climb up, bring safety gear, and sometimes even deal with steep angles or slippery shingles. 

This is riskier and more time-consuming, which is why the price jumps here. Also, roof jobs can take longer because the technician has to clean both ends of the duct thoroughly from inside and on the roof.

4. Severe clogs or bird nest removal: Additional $100 – $200

If your vent hasn’t been cleaned in years or if birds, squirrels, or debris have made a home there, you can expect extra charges in the range of $100 – $200. 

Removing a nest, hardened lint, or even dead critters takes special tools and more labor. Also, it might require a second visit or disassembling parts of the vent. 

These situations pose serious fire risks, so although the cost is higher, it’s 100% worth fixing right away.

Important note: Although cleaning companies charge a flat rate for standard jobs, the price usually goes up if:

• The vent is hard to reach (like on the roof or behind walls)
• The duct is extra long or has lots of turns
• There’s a lot of buildup or a nest inside the vent

Did you know?

Some companies offer discounts when you bundle dryer vent cleaning with full duct or HVAC system cleaning. So, for a price range of $300-$800, you get what usually costs upward of $100. 

How much does dryer vent cleaning cost in New Jersey?

If you live in New Jersey, the average cost of dryer vent cleaning will likely fall in the $100 to $150 range for a standard setup. 

That said, some companies offer flat-rate pricing as low as $89, especially for basic, ground-level vents.

Here’s what I found after researching local businesses and reading homeowner experiences across NJ:

1. Flat-rate deals (starting at $89 – $99)

Some companies in South Jersey advertise flat pricing for homes with easy-to-access dryer vents. These services usually include:

• Interior and exterior vent cleaning
• Airflow check
• Lint removal
• Photo proof (before and after)

2. Average range for most homes is $100 – $150

Most homeowners in NJ report paying in the range of  $100 – $150, especially if your vent is on the first floor or back wall. 

Also, many companies stick to a simple pricing model, which makes comparison-shopping easy.

You’ll often see this range from local service providers in:

• Bergen County
• Middlesex
• Camden
• Monmouth
• Ocean County

3. Higher-end jobs (roof vents, nests, or long runs) cost $175 – $250+

If your vent exits through the roof, or if there’s a bird’s nest or severe lint buildup, expect the cost to go up. 

Roof access in NJ winters can also lead to higher seasonal pricing due to slippery conditions and added safety measures.

Quick tip:

Some companies also give discounts for senior citizens, veterans, or when you combine with other services (like HVAC cleaning or dryer duct repair). 

It never hurts to ask!

What’s covered in dryer vent cleaning prices and what’s not?

So you’ve got a quote for $120 or $200, but what exactly are you paying for?

This is one question I am often asked as a professional vent cleaner. 

Here’s what’s typically included in standard dryer vent cleaning, and what might cost more.

Usually included in the base price:

1. Full lint removal

The technician will use special brushes, vacuums, or even a spinning rod attached to a drill to remove lint from the vent line. This includes cleaning the duct from both the dryer side and the outside vent opening.

2. Vent cap check

They’ll inspect the vent hood (where the vent blows air outside) to make sure it opens and closes properly and isn’t blocked by debris or stuck shut.

3. Airflow test

Many professionals will also check how well the air is moving after the cleaning, just to confirm everything is flowing like it should.

4. Before and after photos

Some companies will show you pictures of your vent before and after cleaning. This is especially helpful if you weren’t home during the service.

Not included in the base price (extra charges possible):

1. Bird nest or animal removal

If birds or squirrels have set up camp inside your vent (which happens a lot), it usually costs extra to remove the nest and sanitize the area. This can add between $100 and $200+.

2. Roof access or high-up vents

If the vent exits through the roof or is on a second or third floor, most companies charge more for the added time, ladder work, and safety risks.

3. Dryer duct replacement or repairs

If your duct is damaged, crushed, or disconnected, the technician might recommend replacing it. Replacement is not included in a cleaning job and might cost extra $50 – $150+ depending on materials and labor.

4. Video camera inspection

Some companies offer camera inspections for long or complex ducts. This can add another $50 – $100, but it’s not always necessary unless there’s a suspected blockage.

Pro tip: Always ask what’s included upfront. A good company will tell you:

• What they clean
• How long it takes
• What’s extra
• And whether they guarantee the work

What determines your total dryer vent cleaning cost?

You might wonder why one person pays $90 and someone else pays $250 for the same cleaning job.

Let me tell you it’s not random since a few key things can seriously affect how much you’ll be charged for dryer vent cleaning.

Here are some of these important factors: 

1. Where your vent is located

Your dryer vent’s location makes a big difference. That’s because a first-floor vent is easy to clean, but if it’s on the roof, it needs ladders and safety gear. 

This extra effort means higher cost since it takes more time and special equipment.

2. How long and twisty the vent is

Short and straight vents are quick to clean. But vents that twist, turn, or run long distances take more work. 

Cleaning these tricky ducts needs more time and skill, which adds to the overall price you pay for the service.

3. Lint buildup or blockages

A little lint is simple to clear. However, if the vent has heavy buildup or something like a bird’s nest, it becomes harder. 

Removing thick clogs or nests can add extra cost, sometimes $100 or more, because it takes special tools and extra time.

4. Type of property

Cleaning vents in houses is usually straightforward. But apartments or condos may have tight spaces or shared vents, which makes the job harder. 

Limited access or complex layouts can increase the difficulty and, thus, the higher cost of cleaning your dryer vent.

5. Local labor costs

The cost of cleaning also depends on where you live. 

For instance, some places have lower prices or flat rates around $89. However, in cities with higher wages and insurance costs, the same job can easily cost $150 or more. 

6. Emergency or same-day service

If you need your vent cleaned urgently, like on the same day or weekend, expect to pay extra.

Rush services often charge fees because they drop other work to fit you in quickly. So, if you’re in a hurry, I suggest you ask your cleaning professional about emergency fees before booking.

DIY dryer vent cleaning: Is it cheaper?

The short answer is yes, it’s cheaper. 

But is it always a good idea? 

That depends.

Let’s look at both sides so you can decide what’s right for your dryer.

The DIY option 

You can buy a dryer vent cleaning kit online or at a hardware store for as little as $15 to $40.

These kits usually come with a long flexible brush that attaches to a power drill. All you’ve got to do is run it through your vent and pull out the lint. 

Simple enough for DIY dryer vent cleaning, right?

But there’s more to it. 

Here’s when DIY works fine:

• The vent is short and straight (like right through the wall)
• You can reach both ends of the duct easily
• You’re comfortable using a drill and cleaning tools

Here’s when DIY might not be enough:

• The vent goes through the roof or a second story
• The duct is long or has lots of bends
• There’s a nest or serious blockage inside
• You haven’t cleaned it in several years

What a professional does differently

Cleaning professionals use high-powered vacuums, spinning brushes, long rods, and sometimes even cameras. They clean both the inside and outside of the vent thoroughly, check the airflow, and spot any issues you might not notice like loose connections, leaks, or damaged vent hood.

So while DIY saves you money upfront, it might miss deeper problems that could cause fires or dryer damage down the road.

Frequently asked questions

Is dryer vent cleaning really necessary every year?

Yes it is, and even if your dryer seems fine. 

You see, lint builds up over time, and once the vent clogs, it can become a fire hazard. So, annual cleaning keeps things safe, efficient, and saves money in the long run.

How often should you clean your dryer vent?

Here’s how often you should do vent cleaning based on how often you do laundry:

Some signs that it’s time to clean your vent:

• Clothes take longer than usual to dry
• Dryer feels hot to the touch after a cycle
• You smell burning or musty odors near the dryer
• Lint is building up around the vent opening
• It’s been over a year since your last cleaning

Why is it important to clean the dryer vent?

Cleaning is important because, it:

1. Prevents house fires by removing flammable lint buildup.
2. Saves energy and lowers your utility bills.
3. Helps clothes dry faster and more evenly.
4. Extends your dryer’s lifespan by avoiding overheating.
5. Keeps pests and moisture from invading your home

Can I clean my dryer vent myself?

Yes, you can, especially if the vent is short and easy to reach. 

In fact, DIY kits cost just around $20 – 40. 

But for roof vents, long ducts, or severe buildup, it’s best to call a professional. 

What’s the difference between dryer vent and air duct cleaning?

Dryer vent cleaning removes lint and buildup from the small exhaust pipe behind your dryer. 

Air duct cleaning, on the other hand, involves cleaning the heating and cooling system ducts throughout your whole house. This is a much bigger and more expensive job.

How long does a professional dryer vent cleaning take?

Most standard jobs take 30 to 60 minutes. But roof vents or clogged lines can take longer.

Can a clogged dryer vent damage my dryer?

Yes.

Poor airflow can cause overheating, wear out heating elements, damage sensors, and force your dryer to work harder than it should. 

Will my dryer work better after a vent cleaning?

Definitely. 

You’ll usually notice faster drying times, less heat buildup, and lower energy bills right away.

Conclusion

Dryer vent cleaning isn’t the most exciting home task, but it’s one of the smartest. That’s because for $100 to $150, you’re protecting your home from fires, helping your dryer run like new, and saving real money on energy bills.

And if you’re in a place like New Jersey, you might even find reliable pros offering flat rates under $100.

So, no matter whether you go DIY or hire a professional, just don’t ignore it. 

Got more questions or want a full dryer vent cleaning in NJ?

You can get in touch with us! At Clean Air Technologies, we are professional dryer duct cleaners servicing Bergen County, Essex County, Hudson County, and more. And we’ve got all your cleaning requirements covered on a budget.