Duct-Sealing Strategies That Will Help Keep You Warm This Winter
You can lose up to 20 percent of the conditioned air generated by your system well before it ever reaches its destination. This may happen because of poor duct sealing that leads to leaks and gaps in your ductwork. This is air you are paying for that gets wasted in areas like crawlspaces or your attic. Duct-sealing strategies will help you regain this lost air.
Forced-air systems use your ductwork to distribute air throughout your house. But when the connections that join the network of ducts are loose or cracked, the air escapes. If you are losing enough air, your house takes a long time to reach the desired temperature. This requires more energy to power your air system, meaning higher utility bills. It may also lead you to turn the temperature even higher when you’re cold, creating even more strain on your system.
A professional HVAC specialist can help you with your duct sealing. First they locate problem areas in your ducts. They can often do this by running their hand along the ducts while the system is on and feeling for loose air. A duct sealant can be used to patch up any holes or cracks. This sealant is a putty-like material that is spread onto the ducts and then hardens.
These simple changes will make a noticeable difference in the comfort you feel inside your home as well as your utility bill. Warm or cool patches that you may have felt throughout your home will disappear as air is distributed more efficiently.
Insulating ducts that pass through unheated or un-cooled areas, along with sealing them, can also help with your comfort levels. It prevents heat/cold from transferring in or out of the ducts as the air travels through. This is especially helpful during the most extreme months of winter and summer.
For more information on how duct sealing can save you money each month, call Climatic Today!
