[Greenbuilding] Heat loss monitoring

[George J. Nesbitt]

    I have sealed many duct systems by removing the grills/registers and 
using UL-181 duct mastic on all the joints I can reach. I then seal 
everything accessible at the furnace that is accessible. Most of the 
time I get to below 6% (California code for new ducts) without touching 
anything else. If I don't get below 6% then I go to the duct runs that 
are accessible. Only very large duct systems, and those with ducts 
buried I can't get below 6%, but I'm usually close.
    I know the person who developed aroseal, you have to do some manual 
work anyway with larger holes (grills/registers ?) and you will only get 
as tight as the operator has time to sit around pumping more sealant 
into the ducts. It is a great process for inaccessible duct systems that 
can't be sealed otherwise.


Marilyn wrote:

> /./
> />     I collect the following information typically; one year of 
> utility /
> /> bills, blower door building shell air leakage, duct blaster duct /
> /> leakage, all equipment, appliance, lighting information, water use 
> (qty, /
> /> type, watts, model, serial numbers, energy factors, AFUE's, etc.), /
> /
> /
> Is there any way to solve the problem of leaky ducts without ripping 
> your walls out?
>
> I know it's a big problem in my house, but haven't a clue it there's 
> anything I can afford to do about it.
>
> Thanks,
> ~marilyn
>