Definition
The system of metal or flexible plastic tubes distributing heated or cooled air from your HVAC system to rooms throughout the home. Duct quality and sealing affect system efficiency.
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Ductwork carries conditioned air to registers in each room and returns cool air back to the furnace or heat pump for reconditioning. Poorly sealed ducts lose significant heated or cooled air before reaching living spaces, reducing efficiency and increasing costs. Common problems include leaks, disconnections, crushed sections, and improper sizing. Inspectors assess visible ductwork for leaks, damage, and adequate insulation. Duct sealing and insulation can improve efficiency by 10-20%.
Pro Tip
Seal ductwork leaks by having ducts sealed and insulated. This improves comfort and reduces energy bills.
Example
An energy audit identified significant ductwork leaks in the attic reducing heating/cooling efficiency by 25%. Sealing ducts with mastic and wrapping with insulation improved comfort and reduced energy bills by $40/month.