Why Duct Tape Should Never be Used on Ducts

Have you ever looked at that heavy roll of silver tape and thought, “I wonder if this stuff actually lives up to its name?” From wrapping cords to wart removal, duct tape can be used for so many things. Ironically, one of the things you can’t use duct tape for is sealing or fixing air ducts.

We receive many questions about duct tape and its potential uses in HVAC. But just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Here’s why duct tape should never be used on ducts.

Duct Tape Can’t Handle the Heat

Duct tape can withstand many things. It’s no secret that duct tape can bring together even the toughest of surfaces. The one thing it can’t withstand though is heat and extreme temperature changes. This is one of the many reasons why duct tape should never be used on ducts.

Long periods of heat cycling can cause the adhesive in duct tape to break down over time. This leads to the duct tape falling off or getting into the ductwork itself. Also, condensation from so many temperature changes can make duct tape weaken and fall right off.

Duct Tape Can Cost You Money

Leaky ductwork can make your energy bills go up. When treated air is lost through cracks and holes in a home’s ductwork, it forces the HVAC system to work twice as hard to produce the same amount of air.

If you “fix” your ducts with duct tape, there may be a drop in your energy bills; but this drop is temporary. When the duct tape falls off or wears down, your bill will go up again. The best way to avoid this headache is to use a material that actually works with ducts or call an HVAC professional.

What You Can Actually Use on Your Ductwork

Don’t be discouraged! There are types of tape you can use to patch tiny holes and cracks in your ductwork. Some of the best options are:

• Duct Putty – Sometimes called duct mastic, this pliable substance can be used to seal duct joints and large holes. But first you need to cover the hole or joint with a fiberglass mesh tape, then paint over that with the duct putty.
• Foil Tape – Instead of duct tape, reach for the foil tape! This tape uses an adhesive that won’t dry out with extreme temperature changes. The aluminum on the back of the tape can also withstand any temperature changes without falling off the way duct tape can.

Need Duct Repair? Call Service Champions!

Are you ready to resort to duct tape? Don’t go down that road, call Service Champions instead. Our air experts are on hand and ready to help with any issue you may have. We are the only Diamond Certified plumbing and HVAC company in Southern California. If you live in Los Angeles, Riverside, Or Orange county, schedule an appointment today. Simply call the number at the top of the screen or click here to book online.