Sealing air ducts is an essential part of many home improvement projects, as it can make or break the efficiency of air conditioning systems. When hot or cold air escapes through the ducts, especially in the basement and attic, the boiler or air conditioner has to run longer (and consume more fuel) for the living room of the house to reach the desired temperature. Poorly sealed duct systems have been reported to lose about 40 percent of heating or cooling energy, and also allow contaminated air to enter the system, decreasing air quality.Butyl adhesive tape and oriented polypropylene (OPP) tape are good options for sealing air ducts, as they can create a surprisingly good seal around duct joints and offer a high level of durability. Adhesive tape should only be used as a temporary solution, as condensation caused by temperature fluctuations will weaken the tape and cause it to break.
A well-designed and properly sealed ductwork system can make your home more comfortable, energy efficient, and safe. In homes with forced-air heating and cooling systems, ducts are used to distribute air conditioning throughout the house. You can further improve indoor air quality with an air filter, which you won't have to change very often because there won't be as much dust or dirt to clean. Some people argue that the air that comes out of the duct is still in the house, so energy isn't really lost. You can apply high-quality adhesive tape (the old fashioned way), putty or Aeroseal sealant for best results. A convenient option is to take a gallon bucket full of duct sealant and apply it directly with the help of a brush.
Despite its name, duct sealant isn't approved for sealing air ducts and doesn't hold up well in the long term. However, in a typical home, 20 to 30 percent of the air that passes through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts. Sealing these gaps with an appropriate material can help reduce energy consumption and improve indoor air quality.
