When you think about ways to lower your energy bill, the state of your ductwork probably doesn't make the list. Items that top the list are insulation, windows, or a more efficient HVAC system. While all those things will help, you will still pay more than you should in energy costs if you have leaky ducts. While we hear a lot about air duct cleaning, air duct sealing often gets neglected, but not by Atlantic Bay Contracting!
What is Air Duct Sealing?
Air duct sealing refers to sealing leaks, gaps, and other openings in the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system's air ducts. These openings allow air to escape and reduce the system's efficiency, increasing energy bills and decreasing indoor air quality. Sealing air ducts can help improve the overall performance of the HVAC system by preventing air loss and increasing airflow. This results in lower energy bills, improved comfort, and better air quality.
Here's how HVAC air duct sealing can help make your property energy efficient
Identify the leaks.
Before we get into the benefits of having a professional seal your air ducts, let's look at how you know your ducts are leaky.
Take a look. Much of your ductwork is hidden from view, but you can visually inspect the areas that are easily accessible. Check the seams and joints for gaps.
Feel the air. While the HVAC system is one, go to the accessible areas. If you can feel air coming from the joints or seams, you need to seal the ducts.
Call a pro. Professionals have methods to check for leaks in ductwork that are more accurate than what you can do yourself. They have tools to measure the airflow and seal off the ducts, forcing air out of any leaks.
Save energy, save money.
HVAC systems heat and cool a building by directing air through the ducts to the rooms that require temperature control. When there are leaks in the ductwork, the climate control system has to send more air through the ducts to compensate for the air escaping. According to Energy Star, leaky ducts can make your HVAC system up to 20% less efficient. That drop in efficiency can increase your energy costs but up to 30%. That's a significant impact and a jump in your heating and cooling costs that you will notice.
What is the Difference Between Duct Cleaning and Duct Sealing?
Air duct cleaning and sealing are terms often interchangeably used or confused. Air duct cleaning involves removing dust, dirt, and other debris from the ductwork to improve indoor air quality and prevent the spread of contaminants. On the other hand, duct sealing involves sealing any leaks or gaps in the ductwork to prevent air leaks and improve energy efficiency. While air duct cleaning and sealing enhance the performance of HVAC systems, they address different problems and require other techniques.
How to Seal Air Ducts?
The best way to seal air ducts is letting be handled by an expert company to ensure the best results. Atlantic Bay Contracting undergoes a comprehensive process to seal air ducts properly.
Step 1: Inspection
We will inspect your ductwork using specialized tools such as a duct blaster or a thermal imaging camera to detect leaks or gaps.
Step 2: Cleaning
Then, we will clean the ducts using a specialized vacuum and other cleaning tools to remove any dust, debris, or contaminants that may be present in the ducts.
Step 3: Sealing
After cleaning, the ducts will be sealed using materials such as mastic duct sealant or metal tape to fill any gaps or leaks detected during inspection. The sealing materials are applied to the ducts by hand and must be spread evenly to ensure a tight seal.
Step 4: Testing
Lastly, we will perform a post-sealing test to ensure all leaks have been properly sealed and the ducts are now airtight.
How Much Does it Cost to Seal Air Ducts?
The cost to seal air ducts will depend on your home's size, the complexity of your ductwork, and the extent of the sealing needed. Atlantic Bay Contracting offers personalized pricing packages matching each client's needs. Don't consider it an expense but an investment that will pay off in the long run by reducing energy costs and improving indoor air quality.
Added Benefits of Duct Sealing
Improved energy efficiency
Sealing air duct leaks can prevent up to 30% of energy loss, improving the efficiency of your heating and cooling system and reducing your energy bills considerably.
Better indoor air quality
Sealing duct leaks prevents contaminants such as dust, pollen, and mold from entering your home, improving indoor air quality and reducing allergy symptoms.
Enhanced comfort
Duct sealing can reduce temperature inconsistencies and drafty areas, providing more even heating and cooling throughout your home.
Extended HVAC lifespan
An HVAC system running efficiently and without strain will likely have a longer lifespan. You won't have to invest in another system for a long time.
Reduced carbon footprint
Reducing energy usage through duct system sealing can diminish your carbon footprint and make your home more environmentally friendly.
Should air ducts be sealed?
Yes, air ducts should be sealed, as leaky ductwork can cause more problems than increased energy costs. Leaks in the ducts can also cause mold and poor air quality. When air of different temperatures and humidity levels comes into contact, it causes condensation.
That added moisture allows mold to grow in areas you are unlikely to notice for a while.
Gaps and leaks in the ducts can also allow the particles the HVAC system is supposed to filter out to escape into living and working spaces, causing health problems for occupants. Sealing the ducts with materials such as mastic or metal tape can prevent these problems and improve the performance of HVAC systems.
Contact Atlantic Bay Contracting and Start Saving on your Energy Bill!
You can trust that Atlantic Bay Contracting is a reliable and experienced provider for your duct sealing needs. Our team of experts will assess your property and provide a customized solution to help you start saving on energy costs. Don't wait any longer. Take the first step toward energy efficiency!
For more information on air duct sealing and other HVAC repair and maintenance services, contact Atlantic Bay Contracting today and get a quote!
FAQs
Can you seal air ducts yourself?
While it is technically possible to seal air ducts yourself, it is generally not recommended. Properly sealing air ducts requires specialized equipment and experience to ensure the work is done correctly. Improper sealing can result in leaks, which can decrease the efficiency of your HVAC system and increase your energy bills. Additionally, sealing ducts may require working in tight or awkward spaces, which can be challenging and potentially dangerous for someone without experience.