Important Steps to Take When Sealing HVAC Ducts

A leaky duct system can deliver the biggest hit to your home’s energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you could lose as much as 30 percent of your home’s conditioned air to leaks and cracks within the ductwork.

Chances are your HVAC contractor will be tasked with sealing ducts throughout your home. When dealing with ductwork, your contractor should take these important steps to insure the best energy efficiency and comfort for your home:

• Search for duct leaks. Your HVAC contractor should be busy inspecting the ductwork, marking problem areas (such as sagging sections and loose connections) as the inspection progresses. Observation is the key when it comes to sealing HVAC ductwork.
• Watch out for dirt and dust. Prior to duct sealing, he should make sure to clean all joint surfaces of any dust, dirt or other contaminants that could keep the sealants from sticking properly.
• Use the right sealants for the job. Seams and joints should be connected and covered with a combination of fiberglass mesh reinforcing tape and mastic, a sticky sealant that prevents air leaks. Under no circumstance should duct tape be used, as it’ll dry out, crack and eventually fail over time.
• Leave room for support. Support straps should be added to areas where sections of ductwork might sag under their own weight. Said straps should be attached to supporting structures such as joists and wood framing.
• Don’t forget to insulate. Sealing HVAC ducts should always be followed up with insulation whenever possible. The proper duct insulation can help curb energy losses, increasing your comfort while lowering energy costs.

When it comes to sealing HVAC ducts, the pros at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning are always willing to lend an expert hand. Contact us to schedule an appointment in the Lorain area today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC ducts and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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