Insulation is crucial when discussing energy efficiency.
A well-insulated house will be able to retain heat better than a non-insulated
house, thereby lowering the need for costly energy. If there are leaks
in your exterior envelope (your walls, ceiling, etc), your house will
become uncomfortable in both winter and summer seasons.
A heating/cooling system that leaks air from the ducts
is not working to its optimum capacity and likely chipping away at your
energy bill. Ducts are usually hidden in walls, which makes them very
difficult to repair without a licensed contractor. However, systems
located in a crawl-space or attic can be fixed quickly and easily.
In some cases, it may be hard to determine if you’re
experiencing leaky air vents. Symptoms include:
• High energy bills in the summer and winter months
• Some rooms are more difficult to heat and cool than others
• Ducts that are located in an attic, crawlspace, or the garage;
because they’re often neglected, they aren’t properly
maintained
• Tangled or kinked ducts
In many cases, a leaky vent can be fixed by replacing
an undersized duct or repairing one that has disconnected. Using mastic
metal tape is required for sealing air leaks; never use duct tape to
fix vents because it won’t last and it’s susceptible to
deterioration. Never attempt to fix or seal an air leak if there are
signs of mold or water leaks in the area; in these cases, contact a
reputable contractor.