Maintaining a well-functioning HVAC system is crucial for keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient, especially in a climate like Houston, TX. One often overlooked yet vital aspect of HVAC maintenance is duct sealing. Properly sealed ducts ensure that conditioned air is efficiently distributed throughout your home, reducing energy waste and improving indoor air quality. However, there are common mistakes homeowners and even some professionals make when sealing ducts. In this blog, we’ll explore the top five duct sealing mistakes to avoid in 2024, with insights from the experts at KAC Express, your trusted Houston, TX duct sealing service.

1. Using the Wrong Materials

One of the most common mistakes in duct sealing is using the wrong materials. Homeowners often resort to using duct tape, thinking it is suitable for sealing ducts. However, standard duct tape is not designed for long-term duct sealing and tends to degrade quickly when exposed to heat and air pressure changes.

What to Use Instead:

– Mastic Sealant: This thick, gooey substance is specifically designed for sealing ductwork. It remains flexible and durable, providing a long-lasting seal.

– Foil-Backed Tape: Unlike standard duct tape, foil-backed tape is designed for HVAC applications and can withstand high temperatures and pressures.

Tip from KAC Express:

Ensure that any sealant or tape used is UL 181 rated, indicating it meets industry standards for duct sealing.

2. Ignoring the Importance of Proper Cleaning

Another common mistake is sealing ducts without proper cleaning. Dust, debris, and even mold can accumulate inside your ductwork. Sealing over this buildup can prevent a secure seal and potentially lead to indoor air quality issues.

Why Cleaning is Crucial:

– Better Adhesion: Clean surfaces allow sealants to adhere better, ensuring a more effective seal.

– Improved Air Quality: Removing dust and debris prevents contaminants from circulating through your home.

– Energy Efficiency: Clean ducts reduce the strain on your HVAC system, improving overall efficiency.

Tip from KAC Express:

Schedule a professional duct cleaning before sealing to ensure the best results. Our team can handle both cleaning and sealing, providing a comprehensive service.

3. Overlooking Leaks in Hidden Areas

Many homeowners focus only on accessible ductwork, overlooking leaks in hidden or hard-to-reach areas. This oversight can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your sealing efforts.

Common Overlooked Areas:

– Basements and Attics: Ducts in these areas are often neglected but can be significant sources of air leaks.

– Behind Walls: Leaks in ducts that run through walls can be challenging to detect without specialized equipment.

– Joins and Connections: These are common leak points that require careful attention.

Tip from KAC Express:

Professional duct sealing services use advanced diagnostic tools to detect leaks throughout your entire system, ensuring no area is overlooked.

4. Inadequate Sealing of Joints and Connections

Simply sealing visible holes and gaps is not enough. Joints and connections between duct sections are prime locations for air leaks and must be adequately sealed.

Steps for Proper Sealing:

1. Identify All Joints and Connections: Ensure every joint, connection, and seam is identified.

2. Apply Sealant Generously: Use mastic sealant or foil-backed tape to cover these areas thoroughly.

3. Smooth and Secure: Smooth out the sealant for even coverage and ensure the tape is firmly pressed in place.

Tip from KAC Express:

Our experienced technicians meticulously seal every joint and connection, ensuring a comprehensive seal that stands the test of time.

5. Neglecting to Test the Sealed Ducts

After sealing, it’s crucial to test the ductwork to ensure the effectiveness of the seal. Many homeowners skip this step, assuming that visual inspection is enough.

Importance of Testing:

– Verifies Effectiveness: Testing confirms that all leaks have been sealed and that the duct system is functioning efficiently.

– Identifies Remaining Leaks: Even with careful sealing, small leaks can remain. Testing helps identify and address these.

– Ensures Performance: Properly sealed and tested ducts improve HVAC performance and energy efficiency.

Tip from KAC Express:

We use advanced testing methods, such as duct blaster tests, to measure the airtightness of your duct system and ensure maximum efficiency.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common duct sealing mistakes can significantly improve the performance and efficiency of your HVAC system. Proper duct sealing not only enhances comfort and air quality but also reduces energy costs. Trust the experts at KAC Express in Houston, TX, to provide professional duct sealing services that address these mistakes and ensure your ducts are sealed correctly.

Our team is committed to delivering top-quality service, from using the right materials and thorough cleaning to sealing hidden leaks and conducting comprehensive testing. Contact KAC Express today to schedule your duct sealing service and experience the difference professional expertise can make. Don’t let common duct sealing mistakes compromise your comfort and efficiency—let us help you get it right the first time!

For more information or to schedule a service, visit our website or give us a call. Keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient with KAC Express.