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Hennemuth Metal Fabricators

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Return Air Ducts

October 27, 2021 by Hilary Barker

Return air ducts are a vital part of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. They bring indoor air back to the furnace or air conditioner to be cooled or heated again, filtered and redistributed. This process balances the airflow in an HVAC system, allowing it to function properly.

An improperly sealed return air duct can cause ductwork leakage and other issues. Conversely, properly sealed ducts can maximize comfort and safety while lowering energy bills.

Table of Contents

  • The Importance of Sealing Air Ducts
  • Symptoms of Not Enough Return Air
  • How to Seal Return Air Ducts

The Importance of Sealing Air Ducts

Sealing the air ducts can provide numerous benefits if you own or work on a residential or commercial property in the Pittsburgh area.

Cost Savings

Sealing the air ducts can prevent leaks that allow cooled or heated air to escape and force the HVAC unit to work harder. The HVAC system will operate more efficiently, which can reduce energy costs by hundreds of dollars per year.

Enhanced Comfort

A leak-free return air duct makes it easier to maintain a consistent air temperature in a room or work area. Occupants won’t need to make frequent thermostat adjustments to stay comfortable.

Better Air Quality

Correctly sealed air ducts prevent pollutants and other contaminants from entering the ductwork and circulating throughout the property. As a result, occupants will have healthier air to breathe, and the system will require less frequent cleaning.

No Back Drafting

Back drafting occurs when gas appliances release combustible gases through the ventilation system instead of expelling them outside. Sealing the air ducts can prevent leaks that may result in back drafting.

Longer HVAC System Lifespan

Sealing the air ducts can help the unit last longer and extend the time between expensive system replacements by reducing the strain on the HVAC equipment.

Call Us About Custom Ductwork and Sealing Solutions

Symptoms of Not Enough Return Air

These signs can indicate that a leak, an issue with the return air plenum box — the collection point for heated, cooled or used HVAC system air — or another problem is creating a lack of sufficient return air:

  • Uneven room temperatures
  • Pressure imbalances
  • High energy bills
  • Weak airflow from vents
  • Worsened allergy symptoms
  • Warm air coming from the air conditioning unit

How to Seal Return Air Ducts

Sealing return air ducts consists of these steps:

  • Inspecting the ducts for holes, gaps or disconnected sections
  • Cleaning the surfaces to remove dust, dirt and debris
  • Sealing the joints and seams with HVAC foil tape or mastic sealant
  • Testing the repairs by turning the system on and using a smoke pencil to detect air movement around the sealed area

Get a Professional Duct Design

Contact Hennemuth Metal Fabricators for Custom Ductwork

At Hennemuth Metal Fabricators, we focus on return air duct design, fabrication and distribution for residential and commercial HVAC contractors in Pittsburgh and the surrounding tristate area. We fabricate ductwork in custom sizes to meet the requirements of any installation or repair project. Our team uses a return air duct size chart along with our unparalleled industry and expertise to help HVAC contractors make the best choices when providing high-quality ductwork service for their customers.

Get in touch with us today to get more information about our services and benefit from our expert guidance. 

Filed Under: Air Ducts

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