How To Improve Duct Efficiency
It makes sense that so many homeowners choose to invest in new HVAC systems. Repeatedly paying high monthly bills due to old and outdated HVAC appliances can be frustrating, to say the least. If you are finally going to invest in your HVAC system, you first should think about ways that you can make it more efficient without buying brand new air conditioners or furnaces.
That is, investing in such large appliances can be very costly, and it is hard to justify the price tag. It could take decades actually to earn your money back. On top of this, there is a good chance that your existing system can be dramatically improved by just fixing a few components. This article explains one way you can improve the efficiency of your heating system by taping the ducts and wrapping them in insulation.
Taping the Duct Seams That You Can Reach
A lot of heat can be lost through the air ducts. Even though most of the air ducts are inside your walls, there are usually shorter sections outside of your wall. Also, many of these sections are in basement or garages. These are rooms that don't have temperature control. So, they are more greatly affected by the temperature. For instance, air traveling through your basement ducts can lose a lot of heat if they are not insulated. It is worthwhile to tape and insulate all of the duct seams that you can reach yourself. That is, if you can see a duct seam, you should try to tape it.
It is best if you do this job while your heat is actually running. This way you can feel air flows and tape the seams make sure the tape is strong enough. Something seams might require several layers of tape, simply because the connection is looser.
Adding Insulation
Once all of your seems are taped with aluminum duct tape, you can go ahead with adding the insulation. Continuous rolls of fiberglass insulation are the cheapest and most convenient solution. They can be taped and wrapped around the ducts very easily. It can be a little awkward when it comes to wrapping the insulation around the ducts and in the small spaces between the wall. Also, fiberglass can be itchy when it comes in contact with your skin, so wear a long sleeve shirt, gloves, and protective glasses.
You might be surprised how this simple project can actually greatly improve the efficiency of your heater. Contact a company like J & M Appliance for more information and assistance.
