Energy Smart Design

Duct Sealing

It is important to have well-designed and appropriately-sealed ducts system so your home becomes safer, more energy efficient as well as more comfortable.

Safety

As part of normal operation of household appliances like furnaces, clothes dryers and water heater; exhaust gases (e.g. carbon monoxide) will be invariably produced.  Duct sealing that is less than adequate may release these gases back into the household through leakages (a situation known as backdrafting), instead of these gases being led outside the house.

Indoor Air Quality

More than just exhaust gases, foreign objects like dusts, insulation particles, chemicals and fumes are carried through the ducts network. If it is not properly sealed, the leakages can inflict health-related problems such as asthma and allergy. Proper duct-sealing makes sure of pollutant free environments and improved indoor air quality.

Save Utility Bill

Leaky ducts can mean a 20% reduction in your heating/cooling system's efficiency. Make sure your duct system is well-sealed to ensure optimal efficiency to prevent unnecessary energy loss; in fact, whatever amount you spent would be more than compensated by the energy saving. In addition to a lower bill, well-designed and well-sealed ducts system allow you to switch to a smaller capacity (less expensive) heating/cooling system, while keeping the comfort level. This translates to better dehumidification as well.

Save the Earth

Our primary energy source happens to be fossil fuel -- which produces everything that is not eco-friendly as by-products and contributes to global warming. While waiting for the next viable and renewable energy source, we will do well not to squander on this precarious resource. The better sealed our ducts network is, the better efficiency our heating/cooling systems are going to become, thus minimizing daily energy used while doing our bit to preserve the earth.

Comfort

Proper (or leak-free) duct sealing ensures that your rooms get to keep warm in the winter and stay cool throughout the summer.

Improving your Ducts Network

While a certain portion of ducts are usually concealed in ceilings, walls, basement and attics, which are all difficult to reach, there are areas inside the house that you can fix.

If you plan to take on this improvisation DIY style, then start from the ducts that are reachable. Use metal tape or mastic sealant for the insulation, instead of duct tape which are known to be not durable. Additionally, pay attention to all joints and connections/extensions make sure they are well insulated as these are highly susceptible to leakages and you may also find interrupted ductwork there. Alternatively, get a qualified contractor to help you on this task. Most systems contractors also provide assistance in this area of work.