Do HVAC return ducts need to be insulated?

Return air ducts only need to be insulated if they pass through environments that adversely affect the return air temperature. Exhaust air ducts normally do not need insulation. Insulation prevents condensation and dripping from ducts.

Does ductwork have to be insulated?

The ductwork in unconditioned areas, such as basements, floors, and ceilings is where ductwork insulation is most necessary. Cool air passing through warm areas in your home can cause condensation in the ductwork. Proper insulation levels can actually prevent condensation form occurring in your ductwork.

Is it bad to block cold air return?

Consequences. Restricting the airflow in the air handler or blower contributes to premature system problems, which can be serious. In the heating cycle, blocked cold air returns can cause the heat exchanger inside the blower compartment to store too much heat and eventually crack.

How do you insulate an air return?

When insulating HVAC ductwork, use a foil, faced fiberglass insulation with an R-6 or higher R-value. Use the type of metallic foil duct tape recommended by the insulation manufacturer to seal and hold the insulation in place. Make sure the foil surface of the insulation is free of dust before applying the tape.

How much does it cost to re wrap ductwork?

The average duct insulation cost will be between $0.95 and $2.00 per sq. ft. installed, the cost will vary depending on a few factors which are discussed below, however r-values have the biggest impact and unsurprisingly insulation with r-values of r-3.5 are the cheaper, up to r-8.0 for the most costly.

Does every room need a cold air return?

Having several return vents (ideally one in every room, but even two or three is better than just one) creates consistent air pressure. If you have one return vent, your home is fine. Keep the doors to each room open so air can properly circulate.

What is the most energy efficient shape of duct and why?

For instance, round duct is the more efficient shape in terms of material use, resistance to airflow, and air leakage.

Is replacing ductwork worth it?

“If your ductwork is over 15 years old, you probably should replace it. Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years. By 15 years, however, it begins to deteriorate, significantly reducing your HVAC system’s efficiency, so replacement is the prudent option.”

When do return air ducts need to be insulated?

Ducts that are anticipated to be in spaces that are widely different in temperature from the air contained in the duct need to be insulated. This definitely includes all supply ducts. It also applies to return air ducts that are not run through the conditioned space.

Is it a good idea to insulate ducts?

This, of course, is a good thing! Duct insulation keeps air that’s supposed to be cool cool and air that’s supposed to be warm warm. If your ducts aren’t insulated, you’re probably paying way more than you should to cool and heat your home.

How to insulate return ducts in your basement?

That rim joist is where much of the cold air comes back in. Seal and insulate that space and then seal all holes in the floor leading up through the walls and your basement will get warmer. That will reduce the cool on your return duct and add heat and comfort to your floors.

Where do you put HVAC return ducts in Your House?

HVAC Return Air Ducting – You Better Have One in Many Rooms “An HVAC return air duct should be in every room except a bathroom and kitchen. They should be on interior walls across the room from the supply ducts that should be washing exterior walls with conditioned air.”