Duct insulation may seem like a daunting task, but whether you tackle it on your own or hire an HVAC contractor to help you get the job done, insulating your ducts will save you money on heating and cooling bills. It will also make your home more comfortable, improve air quality and protect the environment.
Most people think of pink puffy rolls when they visualize insulation, but duct insulation comes in several forms, including foam and flexible tubes. These flexible tubes are often used for insulating ducts in attics. They are usually made of fiberglass or polyethylene and are coated in a foil to hold the insulation in place.
Insulated ducts keep the cold air in your house and warm air out, which reduces energy bills during Delaware’s snowy winters and hot summers. They can also prevent contaminants from getting circulated throughout the house and improve indoor air quality by keeping irritants such as dust, dirt and mold in a storage area.
When installing insulated ductwork, it’s important to follow the 2015 IECC code requirements for climate zones and building construction types. The insulated ducts should be well sealed and insulated at all joints, as well as where elbows connect to straight runs of duct.
Before you apply the duct insulation, remove all the old duct wrap and fiberglass insulation. Clean the surface of the duct with a damp cloth and inspect it for corrosion or moisture. If it’s contaminated, throw it away and start fresh with new duct insulation. When handling fiberglass, be sure to wear long sleeves, gloves, goggles and a mask. insulation duct