Best Way To Insulate Heating Ducts In Attic

How to insulate the ductwork.

Best way to insulate heating ducts in attic.

Determining the right r value. The unconditioned space also houses his hvac system. Insulation is rated in terms of its thermal resistance. Duct board much like the duct liner is also a fiberglass product.

The 1 800 square foot brick ranch in climate zone 4 dates from the 1960s but the previous owner installed both a furnace and ductwork in the attic just four years ago. Don t use standard cloth duct tape on hvac ductwork since the adhesive won t hold up to extreme temperatures. When insulating hvac ductwork use a foil faced fiberglass insulation with an r 6 or higher r value. Before insulating seal any air leaks and make roof and other necessary repairs.

To install preformed duct insulation start by disconnecting an elbow to expose the end of the duct. Our heating and ac ducts are 100 within the thermal envelope in the floor trusses above our insulated basement. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. Secure the insulation with short strips of foil tape.

For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. Apply a long strip of foil tape along the seam in the insulation. Made from 1 to 2 inch thick sheets of rigid glass fiber and coated with an aluminum laminate for a moisture air barrier duct board comes in. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.

Use the type of. Duct liner isn t generally a diy installation and if your ducts already have liner you don t need to insulate the exterior. Wrap the insulation around the duct and then pinch the seam closed. If it is located in a conditioned part of the house also remember to insulate and air seal your attic access.

Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Insulate and air seal any knee walls vertical walls with attic space directly behind them in your home as well. It is best to work with an hvac professional who can make sure you are choosing the right insulation and installing it properly. Repeat to insulate the remaining ducts.

There are a couple of steps to insulating ductwork. The reflective roof already relieves a considerable heat load off the existing ducts so air sealing and better insulation will be icing on the cake for them. My next effort with those ducts is to air seal them the best i can and replace the 56 year old insulation with r6 or better. Ted has more than a few cobwebs in his attic.