Are you aware that you might be losing up to one fifth of the air flowing through your heating and/or air conditioning system? Proper duct sealing and maintenance is an easy way to cut down on energy bills, increase comfort and breathe healthier air. Ducts are all too often out of sight and out of mind. Because Western Colorado is an area of fluctuating winter and summer temperatures, here are three steps you should be thinking about:
- Inspect
The whole system should be inspected including basement, garage, attic and crawlspace. Some homeowners are not even aware of all the ducts they have in their house. A professional will be certain to locate all the duct runs and make sure they are not twisted, broken or improperly sealed. This includes confirming that the proper size ducts are installed and checking both the supply and return lines.
- Repair
Because ducts are hidden, accessing and repairing them can be difficult. Start by sealing all the cracks and gaps you see with metal tape or a mastic sealant. Do not use duct tape. It is not strong or durable enough. A duct sealing professional will have the tools and knowledge to repair the entire system and ultimately save you money. A common area for leaks are the vents and registers at the walls and ceilings.
- Evaluate
After the repairs are made, evaluate the duct sealing. Make sure the airflow is strong and not leaking. Don’t forget to change the HVAC filter regularly. For safety, make sure that there is no “backdrafting” from appliances that emit carbon monoxide or combustible gasses. A combustible safety test is recommended. A licensed professional will have the knowledge and equipment to make sure your system is operating efficiently and safely.
Contact Climate Control Company for more information on the cost savings and health benefits of proper duct sealing. We’ve been providing indoor comfort for homeowners in Western Colorado for over 50 years.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about duct sealing and other HVAC topics, please visit our website.
Climate Control Company services Aspen, Vail and the surrounding Western slope communities in Colorado.
