Q. I have the opportunity to start either a sealcoating business or buy a duct cleaning franchise. start up costs are pretty close. Which is the better industry to go into? Which is more profitable?

A. I would go into sealcoating, and here's why. Duct cleaning is still a fairly new business and a much tougher sell. People know very well that if their driveways are not maintained, they will deteriorate and have to be replaced a lot sooner, and that the expenditure of $60 - $75 (the average cost of a residential driveway in my suburban setting), is something not only needed, but quite affordable and a good value compared to the cost of doing it yourself. You, as a bulk buyer of sealcoat, can get if for far less per five gallons (the way it's sold to retail buyers). It would cost me around $30 to $35 to buy just the sealer (no brush or gloves) to do my small driveway that would cost $45 to pay someone, so to save $10, I'm going to do it myself? Not even in recessionary times when people are looking to cut back will they want to do all that work themselves, but they will still get their driveways done, because it's a lot more expensive to replace the driveway. Cleaning out your ducts, while it's very trendy at the moment - you rarely heard about this 10 years ago, and it was unheard of, residentially speaking, 20 years ago, is many times the cost of sealing a driveway. I've never priced it myself, but I believe it costs, for the average home, between $300 - $400. That is a lot of money and a tougher sell. Generations of people never had their ductwork touched their whole lives and suffered no demonstrable ill effects from it. Any studies that say otherwise may be biased to help sell the service. In recessionary times, this is one of the first things people will decide they can put off. As for how profitable each business is, I have no information. I find it hard to believe that starting up a sealcoating business will vcost more than buying an established franchise, though, and then, you have to pay ongoing royalty and other expenses associated with owning a franchise, expenses you won't have with sealcoating.

Q. How to find good duct cleaning company for dryer vent and air ducts and chimney. let me know asap good luck

A. Try a company called ARS (American Residential Services) in your area or Dial 1. These are national companies.

Q. I need to get an HVAC system cleaned. What is the difference between service from an air duct company that says they can also clean the main furnace or blower unit and fan and using an HVAC company to clean the system? My system is electric. It is 8 yrs old, has never been cleaned and apparently has never had the filter changed. Thanks!

A. Hvac will usually only service the units and not clean the ducts. They should vacuum off the coils and fans and apply a coil cleaner to help remove the dirt that has been sucked into the coils over the years. Sometimes they will want to remove the coil, which means they will remove the freon, take out the coil and chemically clean it. At 8 years old they may try to sell you a new unit, which you prabably do not need. If you want to find a service company and do not have a recommendation try http://www.servicemagic.com/ They will send your info out to qualified, reputable companies. Duct cleaners are not usually licensed ac repair men so be careful. You may get a good tech or you may end up with somebody just doing summer work. You can contact the same web site above for leads in this and all areas as well. Luck

Q. Can any body tell me Where can i find Air Duct Cleaning in Canada at low rates ? I live in Toronto. Thanks 416-915-9390 thanks herry!

A. Look in the Yellow Pages. Get quotes from various companies that do that kind of work.

Q. There was a coupon today in the Valpak for $59 air duct cleaning. Does it really make a difference when they clean them, or is it just a scam?

A. If anyone in the house has allergy issues, it is indeed very helpful. However, a reputable company cannot do a good job for $59.00. If you don't want to pay more then don't do it however you will get nothing worthwhile for $59.00. lp

Q. Is there anyone out there who has had their air ducts cleaned by a professional service? If so was it worth the money and what is the cost average?

A. The price is based on how many hot &cold regesters you have i live in northern ohio ,have mine done every 5-6 year's it is defenyley worth it i would call around for price's i think i paid 2.50 or 3.00 per. regester

Q. I have a small air duct cleaning business, actually it's just me am the president & the technician. I want to know if I need a license to do air duct cleaning in homes ONLY no commercials. I do have have a DBA as required by California. I have called the state but even they weren't sure. if I do need a license what name is it under?? thanks

A. Actually, I would form a limited liability company to limit your personal liability in case something goes wrong. Legally, there is no difference between you and your DBA. This site might help clarify licensing requirements http://www.cslb.ca.gov/

Q. I am starting an air duct cleaning business in colorado, do i need to be bonded?

A. It is not a requirement in Colorado.