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Home » Energy Savings at Home » Heating & Cooling » Duct Sealing » Work with a Professional Contractor for Duct Improvement Projects

Energy Savings at Home

Advice, tools, resources and inspiration to help you save energy

Work with a Professional Contractor for Duct Improvement Projects

Many homeowners choose to work with a professional contractor for duct improvement projects. Most heating and cooling equipment contractors also repair ductwork. Look for a contractor that will:

  • Inspect the whole duct system, including attic and crawlspaces.
  • Evaluate the system's supply and return air balance. Many systems have air return ducts that are too small.
  • Repair damaged and disconnected ducts and straighten out flexible ducts that are tangled or crushed.
  • Seal all leaks and connections with mastic, metal tape, or an aerosol-based sealant.
  • Seal all registers and grills tightly to the ducts.
  • Insulate ducts in unconditioned areas (like attics, crawlspaces, and garages) with duct insulation that carries an R-value of 6 or higher.
  • Include a new filter as part of any duct system improvement. The contractor should evaluate air flow after repairs are completed.
  • Ensure there is no backdrafting of gas or oil-burning appliances, and conduct a combustion safety test after ducts are sealed.

View our Duct Sealing Fact Sheet (PDF, 787 KB) to learn more.

View Frequently Asked Questions about Duct Sealing.

Heating & Cooling

  • 10 Tips for Hiring a Heating and Cooling Contractor
  • Maintenance Checklist
  • When is it time to replace?
  • Duct Sealing
    • Benefits of Duct Sealing
    • Work with a Professional Contractor for Duct Improvement Projects
  • ENERGY STAR Verified HVAC Installation (ESVI)
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