Plan How to Upgrade Your Duct System Project Carefully
GreenHomes recommends ALL ductwork contain proper sealing because a complete seal means ductwork remains as leak free as possible. To best accomplish proper sealing, homeowners must know about the various types of sealants. These sealants include:
- tapes (but not duct tape).
- mastic sealer.
- caulks.
- spray foams.
- gaskets.
Homeowners must also understand their entire home contains ductwork. For example ductwork moves throughout your home in hard to reach places. Therefore, working with an experienced contractor offers a wise choice. Learn more about how a duct system upgrade makes a difference in your home comfort.
In addition, heating and cooling ducts in unconditioned attics, garages, crawl spaces and basements require insulation. GreenHomes recommends ducts maintain a minimum of R-8 insulation in all unconditioned spaces or where condensation possibly occurs. Once again, since ductwork is located throughout your home in hard to reach places, working with an experienced contractor to properly insulate and air seal the ducts in your home is sensible.
Duct System Testing
It is possible for duct systems to be tested for leaks. However, duct testing is not always easy. Therefore, a trained and certified professional must conduct a thorough and proper test. Also of note, typically newer homes require duct testing vs older homes. But, any home with a duct system may be tested.
During duct testing, technicians use a ductblaster (a small fan), which connects to the ductwork and pressurizes the ducts. Under pressure, the extent of any air leaks shows, which enables an accurate measurement. Duct testing readings capture cubic feet per minute of air at a pressure difference of 25 pascals (CF25). It is also possible to measure the percentage of total duct leakage to the outside of the home versus the inside. Duct testing provides an effective way of measuring the level of leaks within your duct system. Additionally, tests determine the location of any leaks.
Frequently, duct leaks increase the heating and cooling costs for your home. Additionally, leaks create very uncomfortable conditions in your home. As a result, it only makes good common sense to seal duct systems and then insulate them properly.