Residential HVAC ductwork is more prone to air leaks than most people realize. For many homeowners, it seems like no big deal, but leaky ducts are a serious problem. Up to 30% of the air in your home may be lost due to holes, cracks, and poor connections, according to Energy Star. Duct sealing is extremely important. These seven benefits demonstrate why.
1. Comfort
Sealed ducts allow for more consistent temperatures from room to room. Leakage can cause a room to be too warm or too cold, depending on the season. If your ductwork is in poor condition, it can be nearly impossible to get comfortable, whether you’re working in the kitchen, watching TV, or trying to sleep.
2. Clean Air
If there is a leak in a return duct, dirty air can contaminate your HVAC system. This air is then circulated back into your home, along with particulates, pollen, dust, or even disease-causing substances. Bacteria, mold, and even rodents and other pests can thrive inside a duct that is leaky. Our repair professionals can clean and seal your ducts so that allergies, asthma, and other health issues can be better managed.
3. Safety
If there’s AC ductwork that runs near appliances, a leak can allow in combustion gases, which then circulate throughout your entire ventilation system. These gases can be dangerous when present in a home. Some are combustible and can cause sudden fires and explosions. Others can cause serious health issues and even death. Carbon monoxide, a gas you can’t see or smell, is deadly, so a combination of leaky ducts and a furnace problem can lead to serious dangers.
4. Efficiency
A lot of energy is wasted when conditioned air leaks from ductwork. Increased energy consumption can strain your HVAC system and is harmful to the environment. After all, fossil fuels are used to supply homes with energy. Duct sealing ensures your air conditioning system is efficient and eco-friendly.
5. Savings
Your utility bills will go down when you’re not wasting so much energy. The amount you save on electricity may cover the cost of having your ducts sealed. If you’re considering a heating/cooling system upgrade, sealing or even re-designing your ductwork may support a smaller HVAC system that costs less and provides the comfort you need.
6. Maintenance
When dirt collects on the evaporator coil, moisture can condense, providing a favorable environment for microbes. This can make the air smelly and unhealthy. Good air filters aren’t always enough. It’s important to check whether ductwork needs to be sealed. Our sealing techniques can reduce air leakage in your ducts to 2%. We’ll also coat duct surfaces with an antimicrobial compound and check for other problems such as bent, sagging, or damaged ducts; poor insulation; and undersized return or supply plenums.
7. Longevity
Sealed ductwork reduces the work your HVAC system must do. This can reduce wear and tear and prevent major repairs. The system can also last longer because it isn’t straining to maintain the temperature in your home, which leads to long-term savings.
Feel the Difference
The Sky Seal service uses advanced technology to measure energy savings, air quality improvements, and other benefits of sealing your ductwork. Our expertise eliminates all inefficiencies and problems associated with leaky ducts, and we’re the only HVAC company in the region to use antimicrobial blue ductwork. To learn more or schedule service, call Sky Heating and Air Conditioning at (503) 235-9083.