Tightly sealed, well-engineered ductwork is one mark of a quality home. Many comfort complaints, such as not receiving enough warm air in a room in the winter, are the result of leaky ducts or improperly sized ductwork. In addition to having detrimental effects on air-distribution system efficiency, duct leakage reduces the heating and cooling capacity of the home since each system will have to operate longer in order to make up for the air-delivery shortcoming. Properly sealing ducts can save money and improve customer relations, resulting in more referrals and a better company reputation.
However, the most important reason for sealing ducts is homeowner health and safety. Since most ducts are located in the attic, crawlspace, or basement, a leaky return duct can draw in air that is contaminated with dust, mold, excess humidity and potential toxins such as pesticides, combustion gases and radon. This contaminated air can be transferred throughout the house. Moreover, leaky supply ducts lower the pressure inside the house, which means that contaminants from outside can enter the house more easily.
In hot, humid climates, houses typically do not have basements and as a result, ductwork is often placed in vented attics. Since these attics contain hot, humid air for extended periods, it is important that this air not be drawn into the duct system by leaky return air ducts. Otherwise, the hot, humid air will likely increase the temperature and moisture level of the air that reaches the homeowner, resulting in a comfort complaint.
Installing all ductwork within the conditioned space of the home helps to reduce nearly all of the problems associated with duct leakage. When the ductwork is within conditioned space, leaks are drawing in only conditioned air, which virtually eliminates the risk of drawing in dangerous toxins and contaminants. It also saves energy, because the air handler unit doesn’t have to work as hard as it would if the air leaks were drawing in unconditioned air. In a hot humid climate, installing ductwork in a sealed, unvented attic improves air quality and comfort.
But even if the ductwork is contained within the conditioned space, it is important to seal the connections to ensure that air gets delivered to its intended destination, thereby promoting optimal energy efficiency and comfort. Following best practices when sealing ductwork will lead to satisfied homeowners and a better company reputation.
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