Ant exterminator costs depend on the ants’ location, the size of the infestation, and the type of pest. This guide breaks down what you need to know to budget for an exterminator.
Who Should You Call If There’s an Animal in Your Air Vent?
Call an air duct specialist first for rodents, and consider wildlife removal or pest control based on the animal and whether relocation rules apply
Photo: Getty Images / iStockphoto
Photo: Getty Images / iStockphoto
Highlights
Animals in vents create noise, health risks, and can damage insulation and wiring, so address the problem promptly to limit contamination and avoid additional repairs.
Your first call is usually an air duct specialist for rats or mice—wildlife removal is better for birds, bats, raccoons, or when the species is unknown.
On average, wildlife removal costs $400, while rat exterminator service visits cost $175 to $550 for rodent-focused solutions inside ductwork.
After removal, pros clean and disinfect vents, seal entry points, and advise on follow-up—schedule at least annual HVAC inspections to prevent future issues.
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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
If you are unsure who to call for an animal in an air vent, start with an air duct specialist for rodents and use wildlife removal for unknown or protected species. DIY removal risks exposure to droppings and urine and can violate state rules about trapping and release.
Pros also disinfect the ductwork and inspect your system during the visit, offering a clear, efficient path that protects your home and health.
Benefits of Hiring an Air Duct Specialist for Animal Removal
An air duct specialist is often the best first call when rats or mice get into your vents. These HVAC-focused pros work carefully inside ductwork, so they remove animals without damaging components. They also look for other system issues while they work and clean ducts with a powerful disinfectant after removal. This mix of safe removal, system know-how, and thorough cleaning reduces health risks, helps you avoid future repair costs, and provides other advantages:
Deep familiarity with vents and HVAC systems
Avoid tearing or duct damage
Removes carcasses, droppings, nesting materials, and debris
Cleans duct interiors with a powerful disinfectant
Flags other HVAC issues during the same visit
Seals likely entry points after removal is complete
Efficient, cost-aware option for rats and mice
Uses specialized tools to reach awkward duct sections
Shuts down the system to control spread and safety
If you’re dealing with persistent odors, noises, or visible animal activity in your ductwork, you might want to consider a pest control pro near you to ensure the job is done safely and thoroughly.
Can I Hire a Wildlife Removal Specialist or Pest Control Company?
Hire wildlife removal if the animal is unknown or you have raccoons, birds, or bats. Wildlife specialists can cost more than HVAC pros but are necessary for bats or other protected species that require specific relocation. For rodents, a pest control company is a budget-friendly option that runs slightly less than hiring an HVAC pro. Ensure pest pros understand they are working in ductwork and choose methods and products safe for HVAC systems.
How Do Pros Remove Animals From Vents?
Pros follow these steps to remove animals from vents:
Inspect the vents to identify the species and pinpoint location using specialized equipment.
Shut down the HVAC system.
Access ductwork and remove carcasses, droppings, and debris.
For live animals, use enticement to draw them out safely.
Wildlife specialists capture and relocate when required, using traps, cages, or chemical immobilization.
Seal entry points.
Clean ducts with a powerful disinfectant to reduce health risks.
How Much Does Removing Animals From Vents Cost?
Expect average wildlife removal to cost $400. For rodents, a rat exterminator service visit costs $175 to $550. Wildlife removal specialists may cost more than HVAC pros, and some animals, like skunks, are much more expensive to remove than rats or mice. Final pricing depends on species, the pro you choose, and any post-removal cleaning and disinfection needed.
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