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duct tape HVAC ducts

Why Duct Tape Doesn’t Work for HVAC Ducts, Part 2

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the major problems with using duct tape to seal or repair HVAC ducts. While the term is understandably confusing and based on some historical misconceptions about what duct tape is, it’s unfortunately become a common source of home HVAC issues among those who attempt to use it for purposes it isn’t meant for.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we’re happy to help with a variety of air conditioner or furnace repair needs, including assistance with air flow or duct issues taking place in your HVAC system. In today’s part two of our series, we’ll go over some other reasons why duct tape and other forms of low-quality HVAC tape are not recommended for themes like sealing or securing air ducts, plus the proper method for carrying out such services.

Dust and Debris

Most basic tape will stick to just about anything, and this becomes an issue fairly quickly when dealing with ducts. These areas will build up dust and other bits of debris over time as part of their natural operations, especially in older homes or those with unfinished basements.

And in these cases, duct tape and other forms of HVAC tape will not be sticking to the ducts themselves – they’ll be sticking to the outer layer of dust. This means the seal won’t be as good and can break easily, for one. For another, this raises the chances of airborne contaminants making it into your breathing air, as these particles will have a better chance of slipping in underneath this imperfectly-sealed tape.

Proper Duct Sealing Materials

So if your ducts are having sealing or leak issues, what should be done about it? There are actually certain forms of tape that are meant for this process, namely professional-grade tapes that are both metallized and have cloth as part of their materials. These are meant to provide improved adhesion and strength compared to options like duct tape, removing the concerns we’ve gone over to this point.

Professional Service

On top of using the right products, however, we strongly recommend you leave any significant duct sealing or repair job to our HVAC technicians. Not only do we maintain a stock of all the best sealing materials, our pros also have the expertise to locate leaks and assess related concerns that might be taking place, such as strange sounds or other signs of HVAC problems that a homeowner likely won’t identify on their own. You’ll find both improved convenience and a lighter impact on your bank account by relying on our team for these kinds of professional repairs.

For more on the issues with duct tape and other HVAC tape for duct repairs, or to learn about any of our HVAC services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric today.