If you're doing HVAC work at home, aluminum tape should be your go-to option. Aluminum tape is fire resistant, withstands extreme temperatures and adheres strongly when there is high humidity. Both putty sealant and aluminum foil tape are good options for sealing air ducts. Despite the name “dust tape”, never seal air ducts with adhesive tape.
It just doesn't hold up. Most HVAC applications require a tape with an aluminum or film backing, although there are some adhesive cloth tapes that are robust enough to be used in HVAC applications. Your technician will be able to seal all leaks in your duct system (even unreachable sections), but he will also be able to clean and isolate them to increase efficiency and improve indoor air quality. Increase energy efficiency and reduce the amount of allergens and air pollutants in your home by investing in sealing, insulation, and duct cleaning from a professional HVAC company. As an expert in the field of HVAC, I can confidently say that UL-certified aluminum tapes are the best option for sealing air ducts.
These tapes have undergone rigorous testing to determine their resistance to flame, mold and moisture formation, static load, impact, pressure, collapse, tension, and more. Regardless of the HVAC tape chosen for the project, when it receives UL certification, the tape is guaranteed to have adequate adhesion and exceptional cut resistance to remain in place for the entire life of the system. Film tapes allow maximum surface contact with the adhesive, as they adapt easily to rough and uneven surfaces, making them an excellent choice for sealing flexible ducts and reflective insulators. Aluminum foil tape (also known as “plenum on a roll”) is easier and less dirty than other options, but it tends to fail faster due to delamination and dirt and grease in the ducts. To reduce air loss and increase energy efficiency, it is recommended to seal all joints and add insulation around ducts, especially in unconditioned spaces.
The tape usually works better on round ducts than on the sharp, uneven corners of rectangular ducts. Although you can attempt to seal your air ducts yourself, it's best to contact a professional HVAC technician for a complete seal. A professional will be able to ensure that all leaks are sealed properly and that your duct system is clean and isolated for maximum efficiency and improved indoor air quality. In conclusion, UL-certified aluminum tapes are the most reliable option for sealing air ducts. They have been tested for their resistance to flame, mold formation, static load, impact pressure, collapse tension and more. Aluminum foil tapes are easier to use but tend to fail faster due to delamination and dirt buildup.
It's best to contact a professional HVAC technician for a complete seal of your air ducts.
