How to Seal Your Ductwork – Winter HVAC Tips
Your home is a valuable investment that requires regular maintenance tasks to keep it in the best condition. Regular upkeep is also necessary to ensure your comfort systems function at their best and highest efficiency.
One annual task Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing always stresses is the importance of heating system maintenance. The importance of this undertaking can’t be overemphasized. Many homeowners find it easy to understand that a furnace or heating pump needs yearly inspections and cleanings for optimal performance of the heating system.
But did you realize that if your home has central heating and utilizes ducts to transfer heated air, it’s invaluable to have your ductwork checked as well? Inspecting your ductwork for leaks is very important. When air is escaping through the ducts into attics, crawlspaces or any other non-living area, the amount of heated air actually warming the home decreases. Energy is wasted, and utility costs rise.
Taking care of leaking ducts isn’t a maintenance task, however. Duct sealing is a repair done to increase comfort and to promote energy savings during the winter.
Signs Your Ductwork May Be Leaking
Increased humidity in living areas
Rattling sounds in the ducts when the heat comes on
Musty odors coming from the vents
Uneven heating – some rooms may be colder than usual
While these symptoms could mean other issues, the most common reason is leaking ductwork.
It’s Possible to Seal Your Own Ductwork
Sealing your own ductwork is not too difficult. It takes time and effort, but some homeowners do choose to take on this home project.
- First, seal air leaks with metal tape or mastic sealant. Duct tape doesn’t last long, so avoid using it.
- Insulate the ducts that are accessible, including the cold-air return.
Sometimes ill-suited ductwork causes lost energy, increasing home heating costs. The professionals at Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can evaluate your current system to discern any ductwork placement or sizing issues that should be addressed. If so, ductwork modifications can be done to ensure your entire system is working together to its maximum efficiency.
