According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Star program, leaky ducts in attics or crawlspaces can account for 20 percent or more of a home’s heating and cooling energy losses. This results in higher utility bills for you and difficulty keeping your house comfortable.
A few signs you may have leaky ducts are if you have:
- High utility bills in summer and winter
- Difficult-to-heat-and-cool rooms
- Stuffy rooms that never seem to feel comfortable
- Attic, crawlspace, or garage ducts
- Tangled or kinked flexible ducts in your system
What Can You Do About Leaky Ducts?
Run your system, and check all the ducts and joints you can access. You can seal these yourself with mastic or foil-backed tape. You should also seal around where the duct meets the wall. Duct tape is actually not recommended for ductwork, and any fabric-backed tape will deteriorate over time. If you have questions about appropriate tape call us at 814-838-3600 or talk to a representative at your local hardware store.
The following maintenance will require an HVAC professional:
Air Duct Insulation
We recommend insulating your ducts. This ensures that the air maintains the correct temperature as it travels to the living spaces in your home.
Air Duct Testing
You can have your ducts tested. One of our certified technicians will take a reading of the air pressure in your ducts and can analyze how much air you lose. From there we can make suggestions about how to improve efficiency.
Air Duct Replacement
When your ductwork can no longer be repaired of its leaks, it’s time for a replacement. Or if you are upgrading or retrofitting your HVAC system, you may need replacement ducts. They are such an important part of your heating and cooling system as well as your indoor air quality. Be sure you talk to our experts so you are ensured of a job well done.
Indoor Air Quality
Indoor Air Quality, or IAQ, is very important to the health and well-being of you and your family.
To learn more about maintenance for your ducts, or if you have questions about your leaky ducts, call us today at 814-838-3600 or request service online .
