Seal Your Ducted Return For Air Tightness

Ducted heating/cooling returns have been covered in previous videos. This video shows the attention to detail that should be expected when sealing up a return. It demonstrates products that can be used and indicates that the work does not need to be pretty, as the ducted heating return is a concealed compartment hidden behind a grill.

A ducted heating return plenum is a critical part of a central heating system that collects heated air from the living spaces in your home and cycles it back to the furnace to be reheated. When the plenum has leaks, it can create several issues, including inefficiency and safety concerns.

1. The most significant issue is the health of the occupants. Sucking unfiltered air from the roof can push poor-quality air throughout a home, aggravating asthma sufferers and inducing respiratory problems.
Introducing Contaminants: Leaky return plenums can pull in dust, insulation particles, and other contaminants from the attic, basement, or crawl spaces where the ductwork is usually located. These particles can pollute indoor air, potentially triggering allergies or other health issues.

2. Energy Efficiency Loss: The second most significant problem is the loss of energy efficiency. Leaky ducts can cause up to a 20-30% loss of heated air, which means more energy is used to heat your home, causing a spike in your energy bills.

3. Reduced Comfort: When heated air escapes from leaky ducts, it leads to uneven heating across your house, causing the HVAC system to overwork to maintain the set temperature, thus reducing the overall comfort level in your home.

4. Safety Concerns: If the leaks are significant, they can lead to the risk of back-drafting. This is when gases from combustion appliances like furnaces or water heaters are drawn back into the living space rather than exiting through the vent, which can be harmful.

5. Decreased HVAC System Life: Overworked heating systems due to leaky ducts have a shortened lifespan and may require frequent repairs or replacements.

Regular inspection and maintenance of your ducted heating system are crucial in response to these issues. Engaging a professional to repair any leaks and confirm the system functions efficiently is advisable.

Видео Seal Your Ducted Return For Air Tightness канала Efficiency Matrix