Your HVAC ducts are probably tucked away somewhere so that you never have to see them. Most likely, they’re in the attic or the basement, or perhaps even some type of dropped ceiling or chase. But the fact that they are never seen doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give them some thought, particularly if you start encountering larger bills this winter when trying to heat your home. Read on to learn why you should invest in duct sealing in winter.
What Can Happen to Your Ducts
It seems like your ducts should last forever, with nothing happening to them, particularly if they never see the light of day and are never disturbed, but that’s not the case. Ducts expand and contract as the system continuously distributes heated or cooled air through them. Over time, the connections that keep the segments together can crack and deteriorate, causing the segments to come apart.
The duct material can also crack or develop holes.
When the integrity of the ducts is compromised, they leak conditioned air into unconditioned spaces. In the winter, that means you’re heating the attic or basement. Another problem is that humidity, dust, and other pollutants may be sucked into the ducts. When the system delivers air through the HVAC, your home’s indoor air quality will be adversely affected.
Sealing Your Ducts
For some homeowners, sealing HVAC ducts is not a difficult task. It requires some metal tape, metal screws, and mastic sealant. Do not use duct tape; despite its name, it is not an effective means of sealing the segments and will come loose.
In addition to reconnecting loose segments and patching holes and cracks in ducts, you can also check vent and register connections, making sure they are well sealed where they meet walls, the ceiling, and floors.
When sealing the ducts, it’s also a good time to insulate them.
If you’re not used to doing this kind of work, it’s probably better to hire a contractor to get a professional-quality job.
For more on how to duct seal for the winter, contact Energy 1 Heating and Air Conditioning of Lorain.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area