Tools and Materials
Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.
Identifying Leaks
Ductwork is the system in which conditioned air is transported to heat or cool your house. In an average home, up to 20 percent of that air is lost due to leaks, holes and faulty connections. Look for tiny holes in the tubing, gaps and branching lines of dust and dirt at duct connections. Most problems are found at the duct joints, duct connections and where ducts meet an air vent or floor register.
Below are signs your ductwork may need attention:
- High summer and winter utility bills
- Rooms that are difficult to heat and cool
- Stuffy rooms
- Poor air quality, such as excessive dust
Ductwork can be hard to access. If you don't feel comfortable making repairs, contact a professional.
Before You Shop for Materials
- Check to see how much of your ductwork is accessible from the basement, crawlspace or attic.
- Check whether ducts are made from sheet metal, fiberglass, flexible tubing or a combination of these. Tape works especially well on fiberglass and flexible ducts as well as flat metal ducts; liquid duct sealant provides a tight seal around odd-shaped metal joints.
Wear eye protection when sealing ductwork. You’ll be working in dusty conditions and, in the case of sealant, brushing on liquids overhead. Wear disposable latex or nitrile gloves when using liquid sealant.
Tape Ductwork
Instructions
Use Duct Sealant
Follow these steps to use duct sealant.
Instructions
Benefits of Sealing Ductwork
Ensuring your ductwork is properly sealed can:
- Save money on energy costs
- Make room temperatures more comfortable
- Improve indoor air quality
- Protect the environment by using less energy