We just hit over 300 reviews on Thumbtack!! 📌 Thank you so much to everyone who has ever left a positive review for us on Thumbtack or any other website! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We really value your feedback and want to make sure we're providing 5-star service to every customer! 🙌

If you would like to leave your own positive review on Thumbtack, please do so here: https://bit.ly/4eXLqE7

At TRIO, we’re committed to positively impacting our society every step of the way. Until now, we have relied on gas-powered vans for our technicians, but now TRIO is proud to be one of the leading HVAC companies with an entire fleet of Tesla vehicles, including the new Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model X vehicles!⚡💯

Investing in an all-electric vehicle service fleet will allow us to align with our mission of positively impacting the environment, along with our mission to plant a tree for every job we complete. 💪

Insulation can keep your home comfortably cool in summer and warm in winter, but insulation installation services come at a cost. Many factors determine the expense. The insulation material, its location, and labor are just a few. However, the potential for energy savings can make the cost of insulating your home worthwhile.

Cost of Insulation Installation Services

According to Forbes, the average cost to install insulation in a 2,000-square-foot home is $3,000 to $10,000 (in 2024 dollars). Insulation generally costs $1.50 to $5.00 per square foot. If the project is done while your home is being built, the insulation installation cost is on the low end of the scale. 

That’s because the walls and ceilings of a home under construction aren’t finished. Insulating an existing home is more expensive because drywall and ceiling materials must be removed and repaired. Plus, old insulation must be removed, which can cost $1 to $3 per square foot. The size of the area to insulate is a major cost factor.

How the Cost of Insulation Can Pay for Itself

High-quality insulation can help lower your electricity bills. The difference in utility costs can make up for installation expenses, meaning you can recoup the cost over a few years. But exactly how much you save on energy depends on many variables. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs and 11% overall on energy costs with proper insulation and air sealing.

Factors that Determine the Cost of Insulation

When installing insulation in your home, its cost is determined by many variables. Here are some factors that a professional installer will consider when providing a price quote.

Insulating Material

A wide range of materials are used for residential insulation. Each has its advantages and disadvantages and is suited for use in specific areas or applications. The following are the most common materials, their cost per square foot, and uses plus their R-value (which reflects how well an insulator resists the movement of heat): 

• Fiberglass ($0.40 to $1.50): Fiberglass is among the most common materials used by insulation installation service companies. Available as batts, rolls, or loose-fill insulation, it’s a more affordable option and easy to install. The material is used during new construction and renovations. Batts and rolls have an R-value of about 2.5, depending on their thickness.
• Cellulose ($0.60 to $2.30): A loose-fill material, cellulose insulation is often blown into wall cavities. It’s sometimes available as a damp spray foam. Special equipment is needed to blow it into place, where the material settles and sticks together. Loose cellulose has an R-value of about 3.5 per inch of material.
• Polystyrene ($1.00 to $15.00): Polystyrene is available as foam board to cover a building exterior or can be placed under siding or roof shingles. Spray foam polystyrene can fill wall cavities or the space under attic floors. Extruded polystyrene tends to be more expensive than expanded polystyrene. Generally, polystyrene has an R-value of 3.2 to 3.8 per inch.
• Rockwool ($1.40 to $4): Spun into a fibrous material from recycled furnace slag, mineral wool insulation is more resistant to heat transfer than fiberglass. It contains a fair amount of silica, so safety precautions are required during installation. Rockwool has an R-value of about 3.4.
• Wood Fiber ($4.25 to $6.75): Wood fiber insulation consists of large, rigid boards. They are installed on flat surfaces to supplement existing insulation in ceilings or interior walls. The boards are made from recycled wood, so they are sustainable. An R-value of 3.8 makes wood fiber an efficient insulator that also dampens noise.
• Blue Jean Insulation ($1.50 to $1.75): Denim is an effective insulator and a great alternative to fiberglass batting. It’s also a safe DIY option, as it doesn’t have small glass particles. Made of recycled blue jeans, it can have an R-value of 5 or higher.

Type of Insulation

Aside from the material, the form of insulation affects its cost. The most common types of home insulation and their costs per square foot include the following:

• Batts and Rolls ($0.65 to $2.00): These are easy to install and fit between wall studs, rafters, and joists. They can be made of fiberglass, mineral wool, cotton, or plastic.
• Blown-In ($1.65 to $3.80): Blown-in insulation can be made of recycled cardboard, newspaper, fiberglass, or rock wool. A machine blows it into the space to be insulated, where it conforms to the area in which it’s applied.
• Foam Board ($2.40 to $3.75): Rigid foam board insulation is best for residential exterior applications. It’s most often used under siding but can also insulate basement floors. Accounting for thickness, it’s one of the most efficient insulators.
• Spray Foam ($3.15 to $7.50): Made of liquid polyurethane, this insulation is sprayed into wall cavities, where it expands and hardens into a solid foam. Closed-cell foam is thicker and more effective at trapping heat than open-cell foam (and more expensive). Both are well-suited for use in finished areas and hard-to-reach spaces.
• Radiant Barrier Insulation ($0.10 to $0.95): Radiant insulation reflects heat instead of absorbing it. This makes it suited for use as attic roof insulation. Although not the most expensive material, it can cost $30 to $80 per hour to install, according to Angi.

Location 

The cost of an insulation installation service also depends on the part of your home being insulated. A two-car garage, excluding the garage door, costs an average of $0.50 to $1.25 per square foot to insulate. Insulation is more often installed in a finished garage or if there’s a living space above it. Basements usually don’t require as much insulation and cost $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot to insulate. Wall insulation can cost from $1 to $4 per square foot.

However, other insulation installation projects require more extensive work. An attic, the most important area to insulate, needs twice as much insulation to counter the effects of rising heat. The average cost of an attic insulation installation service is $1,500 to $6,000. If you’re converting your attic into a living space, you may also want to insulate the roof, which costs $1,500 to $4,500.

Labor

The cost of labor depends on the insulation type, the equipment used, and the installation method. An installer also factors in the accessibility of areas to insulate. Labor is usually costlier with spray foam, which requires special equipment and protective gear. The labor cost for insulating a home can add from $0.25 to $2.50 per square foot, or anywhere from $40 to $80 per hour.

Site Prep

Site prep can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of the project. An insulation installation service may also require drywall to be demolished and repaired. Other aspects of site prep may include the following:

• Cover windows, doors, surfaces, and valuables
• Removal of old, moldy insulation/mold abatement
• Discarding old insulation and debris
• Verify walls are properly framed and enclosed
• Inspect electrical wiring for installation or repair issues

Air Sealing

If your home isn’t air sealed, conditioned air will escape and no amount of insulation will maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency. Therefore, check to see if parts of your home need air sealing before adding insulation. This can cost as little as $0.30 to $0.50 per square foot for a vapor barrier, about $6 per linear foot for caulk, or $7 for a 10-foot roll of weatherstripping. Some forms of air sealing are simple and affordable but can significantly improve efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know I Need New Insulation?

The signs you should consider replacing insulation in your home include the following:

• Uneven Temperatures: Gaps in insulation can mean heat is escaping (making a room colder) or getting through space so one area is warmer than another.
• Leaks/Condensation: Dripping water on a wall, water stains on walls or ceilings, or condensation on windows can mean moisture is seeping in due to poor insulation.
• High Energy Bills: If your utility costs have been increasing despite no change in energy usage, you may need new insulation to help your HVAC system run more efficiently.
• Drafts: Feeling drafts in parts of your home can mean that air is passing through gaps or missing insulation.
• Frozen Pipes: Poor insulation or a lack of insulation can leave parts of your home exposed to freezing temperatures, causing pipes to freeze and possibly burst.

What Are the Benefits of Insulation Installation Services?

Professional installation has many benefits. A qualified technician ensures the materials are properly installed and can take steps to avoid damage and protect your home. Improving home insulation can result in lower energy bills, more effective temperature control, and better soundproofing.

How Long Does It Take to Install Insulation?

An insulation installation service can take as little as two hours. However, larger projects can take as long as two days. Professional installers are equipped and trained to work more quickly than, for example, a DIYer or handyman.

How Long Can New Insulation Last?

Cellulose insulation is the least durable. It lasts 20 to 30 years but can start to deteriorate after about 15 years. Spray foam insulation lasts up to 30 years when installed under a roof deck; in most areas, it can last up to 80 years. However, fiberglass insulation can last up to 100 years but must be inspected every 15 to 20 years to ensure it’s code-compliant.

Do I Need a Professional to Install Insulation?

Certain types of insulation can be installed without a professional. For example, many homeowners can install batting and blown-in insulation (with the proper equipment and safety gear). However, foam board and spray insulation require professional expertise.

How much you can save is hard to estimate, as there are many cost factors. In many cases, it pays to hire a contractor; insulating a home can involve a lot of time and labor, especially if it requires access to hard-to-reach areas. Hiring a professional is often more convenient than paying for materials, tools, and equipment and doing your research and preparation. 

Contact Us for Insulation Installation Services

TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing installs home attic, crawl space, and other insulation per California’s latest requirements and recommendations. Our trained technicians also remove old, damaged insulation. They perform inspections as well to determine if your insulation needs to be replaced or if there’s any air leakage to fix. We’re committed to high-quality installation and meeting the highest standards of service. To request insulation installation services in Santa Clara County and San Mateo County, call (415) 223-1647 today. 

Mistakes in AC repair and maintenance can damage the system in addition to normal wear and tear. One error or misjudgment can lead to costly problems or an early system replacement. Therefore, a qualified professional must handle any air conditioning repair (aside from changing the air filter or simple cleaning). Not calling for help when necessary, mishandling the system, or improperly maintaining it can lead to substantial damage. 

• Forgetting to Change the Filter
• Installing the Wrong Filter
• Diagnosing a Problem Incorrectly
• Ignoring Noises Your AC Shouldn’t Be Making
• Handling Electrical Parts Incorrectly
• Cutting an Electrical Wire
• Installing the Wrong Parts
• Keeping the Outdoor Unit Covered
• Waiting Too Long to Call for Help
• Not Following Safety Precautions
• Attempting a DIY AC Repair
• Not Scheduling Annual Maintenance

Avoiding these common mistakes can protect your AC system and household budget:

1. Forgetting to Change the Filter

Changing the filter regularly is the golden rule of air conditioner maintenance. Replacing it every three months or more frequently can prevent costly AC repairs. Set reminders to check the filter. If it becomes clogged with dirt, your entire HVAC system works harder to achieve the desired air temperature, increasing utility costs and straining already hard-working components.

2. Installing the Wrong Filter

As every AC professional agrees, replacing the air filter is the easiest and most important way to care for your air conditioner. However, the filter must be the right type and size for your system. Its length and width must fit the space exactly; for some units, the thickness of the filter must meet exact specifications. Otherwise, it may decrease performance or cause permanent damage.

3. Diagnosing a Problem Incorrectly

No matter who services your air conditioner, the underlying problem must be properly identified before it’s repaired. Experienced professionals have the tools to diagnose a wide range of issues. For example, leak detectors can identify damage to a coil, while voltage testers can help find a faulty electrical component. Attempting repairs without a proper diagnosis can result in overlooking the root cause of the problem. Or, the repair may ultimately be ineffective. In either case, there’s a high risk of additional damage.

4. Ignoring Noises Your AC Shouldn’t Be Making

Loud noises don’t just happen normally as your AC is running. You or anyone servicing the unit must take these seriously. Unusual noises are a telltale sign of a problem. Ignoring them can allow an issue to escalate until there’s major damage, such as a failed blower or a burnt-out compressor. Safety hazards such as a refrigerant leak or a short circuit are also possible. 

Therefore, call a local HVAC contractor if you hear the following from your AC:

• Rattling
• Squealing
• Shrieking
• Banging
• Hissing
• Whistling
• Bubbling
• Grinding
• Humming

5. Handling Electrical Parts Incorrectly

Working with an AC’s electrical components requires extensive knowledge and training. Not every AC repair technician is equipped to handle electrical issues. Attempting an electrical repair without expertise is highly dangerous. Aside from the potential for a shock, burn, or electrocution, it also risks causing extensive damage to your air conditioning system. For example, a mistake fixing faulty wiring or a capacitor can trigger a surge that shorts out major components. It can also lead to an electrical fire.

6. Cutting an Electrical Wire

Touching a live electrical part without protection, not turning off the system, or installing an electrical component incorrectly is bad enough. However, a far too common issue is cutting an electrical wire. This may seem appropriate if something isn’t working; just cut a wire, splice it back together, or replace it. 

But it’s not this simple. Your AC system has many wires and connections. Whether you cut one during repairs or by accident while trimming hedges or mowing your lawn, the results can be bad. The effects can range from reduced cooling capacity to your AC being unable to turn on. Hiring a professional is the best way to avoid wiring mistakes. They can also install and wrap wires to ensure they’re stable, protected, and unlikely to be accidentally cut.

7. Installing the Wrong Parts

Every part installed or replaced in your AC is specific to the make and model. If the wrong part is installed, it may be incompatible with the system. Your AC may not work at all, be damaged in the process, or wear out at an increased rate. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for selecting parts and hire a professional familiar with your type of system. Some ACs may also require specific tools to complete certain repair tasks.

8. Keeping the Outdoor Unit Covered

Some people cover their outdoor condenser unit to protect it and avoid repairs. However, this can have the opposite effect. Outdoor units are typically built to withstand extreme temperatures and inclement weather. Don’t cover the entire unit while it’s running. The covering can disrupt airflow, overworking the unit. Or, its materials may be sucked into the machine, so you may need a major AC repair before you know it.

9. Waiting Too Long to Call for Help

Call a professional as soon as your AC:

• Doesn’t provide as much cooling
• Fails to provide consistent temperatures
• Makes strange noises it never did before
• Emits unusual odors
• Blows less air from the vents
• Has increased condensation or a small leak

Homeowners often wait too long once they notice these symptoms. But the longer you wait, the more damage can occur. Your safety may also be at risk. Therefore, call an HVAC technician as soon as possible to diagnose and resolve the issue before it gets worse.

10. Not Following Safety Precautions

An AC repair comes with many hazards. One reason to call a professional is that they know the risks and how to mitigate them. They wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and insulated shoes to protect themselves from harm. Other safety precautions include turning off the power while working on a system and following industry guidelines for handling, charging, and disposing of refrigerant.

11. Attempting a DIY AC Repair

Never attempt to fix your air conditioning system yourself. Other than changing filters and cleaning the outside of units, DIY repairs are far too risky. Aside from the safety hazards, there’s the chance of causing damage that requires expensive repairs. You’ll pay out-of-pocket for these if a DIY repair voids the warranty. Therefore, always call a licensed professional to diagnose and repair your AC System.

12. Not Scheduling Annual Maintenance

Another big AC repair mistake is neglecting to schedule regular maintenance. It can lead to reduced cooling performance, higher energy bills, and safety hazards. Basic professional maintenance tasks like cleaning coils, lubricating moving parts, tightening electrical connections, and measuring refrigerant levels can make a big difference. During annual maintenance, a technician can also make minor repairs to prevent larger problems that may shorten your air conditioner’s lifespan.

Call TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing for AC Repair and Maintenance

TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing provides top-notch HVAC services in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Committed to customer satisfaction, we provide any type of AC repair and ensure you have cool air during the warmer months. Our team gets the job done right, whether it involves a simple tune-up or replacing a major component. To schedule air conditioning services in your home, call (415) 223-1647 today.

Many factors determine the air duct replacement cost. It’s usually a solid investment because if your ductwork is in good shape, your air conditioning system should be functional and efficient. In addition, AC duct replacement helps you get the most out of our indoor air quality services. To help you plan for improving your home ventilation system, the cost to replace ductwork (according to Angi) looks like this:

• Average Cost: $3,500
• Low-End Cost: $1,000
• High-End Cost: $9,000
• Typical Cost Range: $1,400 to $5,600

Factors That Determine the Cost of AC Duct Replacement

An HVAC contractor uses many variables to calculate the cost of a duct replacement project. The initial home evaluation is an important part of the planning process. It is when installers consider the following factors:

Size of Your Home (In Square Feet)

Although it’s not the only important factor, your home’s size is one of the first considerations. The larger your home, the more ductwork it likely needs and the more materials and labor required. Here’s a look at square footage vs. ductwork replacement costs:

• 1,000 to 2,000 Square Feet: $1,400 to $4,500
• 2,000 to 3,000 Square Feet: $2,800 to $6,700
• 3,000 to 4,000 Square Feet: $4,200 to $9,000

Amount of Ductwork You’re Replacing

The length and number of ducts to replace add to the total cost. Air ducts average $25 to $55 per linear foot. If you’re replacing multiple ducts, the installer may offer a bulk discount rather than add up every linear foot of duct. However, that depends on material and labor expenses. Large homes can require an extensive network of ducts, which requires more materials and time to install.

Placement of Ducts

Some parts of your home may be harder to access than others. For this reason, AC duct replacement can vary significantly in cost depending on the location of old ductwork. Exposed ducts generally cost less to replace than those in areas such as the following:

• Walls/Ceilings: $1,000 to $4,000
• Basements: $1,800 to $3,100
• Attics: $2,200 to $5,600
• Crawl Spaces: $3,000 to $7,300

What Your Ducts Are Made Of

Various ductwork materials are available. Some are more durable and expensive than others. Flexible ducts are the least costly, while sheet metal ducts are the most expensive. The costs of the most common duct material options are as follows:

• Flexible: Non-insulated ducts cost $1 to $3 per linear foot, while insulated ones cost $2 to $4 per linear foot. Flex ducts are generally easy to install but less efficient and heat tolerant. Insulated ones have a higher energy efficiency.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass ducts cost $4 to $6 per linear foot and are more durable. They’re less likely to tear than flexible ducts and don’t require as much support. However, they’re not suited for tight spaces or complex ductwork layouts.
• Sheet Metal: Highly durable and long-lasting, sheet metal ducts cost $7 to $13 per linear foot. They also last the longest. Nonetheless, the installation process can be complicated by the need for additional structural support.

Cost of Insulation

The price of insulation is also factored into the air duct replacement cost. Depending on the insulating material, you may pay $1 to $8 per square foot. But materials aren’t the only cost factor here; installing insulation requires labor, so the total cost of air duct insulation can be from $800 to $2,000. Flexible fiberglass insulation is the cheapest, at $1 to $4 per square foot. Flexible mineral wool ranges from $2 to $4 and rigid or foam board fiberglass insulation is $4 to $8 per square foot.

Labor

As with any HVAC project, labor makes up a large percentage of the cost of AC duct replacement. A contractor can have a set rate per hour. Or, labor fees may be determined by the type of duct, accessibility, materials, and other factors. You may also pay to have old equipment removed and for ductwork planning and design.

Cost of Ductwork Add-Ons

Installing ductwork often involves additional modifications. Depending on the job requirements and your home’s layout, the cost to replace ductwork may be increased by the following:

• Vents: If you add vents, expect to pay $250 to $500 for each. The number of vents needed depends on your home's size and layout. Adding vents can improve circulation but lower the overall efficiency of your HVAC system.
• Sealing: Duct sealing, depending on whether each air leak is sealed manually or the system is treated with a powdered sealant, can range from $400 to $2,700.
• Lining: A durable protective lining called duct armor can add $5,000 to $30,000 to the air duct replacement cost.

Other Costs

Replacing ductwork can be complicated. You may pay other costs aside from installing air ducts. Those that may factor into your overall project budget include:

• Permits: Major home improvements like air duct replacement often require a permit. Depending on your municipality, obtaining a permit can cost $250 to $1,500.
• Ceiling/Drywall Repair: Breaking through walls and ceilings takes time and effort as does repairing and repainting them. Drywall repair can add over $300 to the cost of the project and ceiling repairs can cost as much as $1,200.
• Asbestos or Mold Abatement: Asbestos or mold testing can cost several hundred dollars each. If any of these problems are found, asbestos removal can add up to $2,200 and mold remediation can add up to $6,000 to the cost of AC duct replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Install Ductwork Myself?

Even if you’re good at home DIY projects, duct replacement is better left to a professional. It not only requires precise measurements and cutting. You could violate building codes and local laws, not to mention cause issues such as air leaks, reduced energy efficiency, and damage to your heating and cooling system. Trying to cut costs with DIY duct replacement can also affect your homeowner’s insurance and void the warranty on your entire HVAC system.

What Are the Alternatives to a Complete Ductwork Replacement?

If leaks or other issues are isolated to a specific duct, you can replace only the worn or damaged components. This is a cost-effective way to restore your ductwork. We can work with you to make specific improvements or replace ducts in a room or area being remodeled.

A thorough cleaning can also be an effective duct replacement alternative. If the main issue is debris, dust, or mold, a contractor can address it and the cause. A professional duct cleaning can have many benefits, including restoring optimal airflow and reducing energy bills. In addition, isolated leaks and loose connections can be sealed to address various problems.

How Can I Reduce the Air Duct Replacement Cost?

Air duct replacement can be a costly home improvement project. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities to save. You can cut costs or get more out of your investment by doing the following:

• Invest in insulated ducts to achieve long-term energy savings.
• Compare multiple quotes from reputable HVAC contractors.
• Bundle duct replacement with AC installation and other home services.

You can also reduce costs by maintaining your existing ducts, which may increase the time before air duct replacement is needed. Sealing air leaks when you discover them can limit energy loss and thus keep expenses down.

Call TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing Today

We provide high-quality air duct cleaning, duct sealing, and other services that can put off the cost of AC duct replacement. Our fully trained HVAC technicians also install attic and crawl space insulation, air scrubbers, and whole-house purification systems. Homeowners throughout the San Francisco Bay Area depend on us to ensure they have clean, healthy air to breathe. From air filter replacement to setting up more advanced indoor air quality equipment, our team can deliver personalized solutions to meet your needs. Call (415) 234-4728 to learn more.

Getting air duct installation right improves comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality (IAQ). Ventilation is one of the core components of any HVAC system. Your ductwork provides passages for conditioned air to flow to each room and return to the system to be heated or cooled again. It’s often the source of IAQ issues. Therefore, achieving improved indoor air quality in your home starts with proper air duct installation. 

The following tips for installing ductwork can help improve IAQ and make your indoor air healthier to breathe:

Place Ducts Within Conditioned Spaces

Contamination from the attic, basement, or crawlspace can compromise indoor air quality. It’s often caused by duct leakage in these unconditioned areas. Installing ductwork in conditioned spaces instead limits access to pollution, even if there is a leak. It also minimizes heat loss. To achieve these benefits:

• Install air ducts in a dropped ceiling or chase.
• Place under-floor ducts in open-web floor joists (in a multi-story home).
• Put the air handler in an interior utility closet.
• If installing an air handler in the garage, place it in an air-sealed closet.
• Ensure the attic or crawlspace is unvented, air-sealed, or insulated at the perimeter.

Enclose Attic Ducts In Insulation Wherever Possible

If you can’t install ducts within the building envelope, bury them as deep as possible in attic insulation. Using R-8 or higher insulation can prevent heat loss and condensation, especially when it’s hot and humid (or at least R-13 in climate zone 3a, which includes the Greater San Francisco Bay Area). 

This method is just as effective as installing ducts in a conditioned space. The International Residential Code (IRC) was updated in 2018 to reflect the benefits of buried ducts. It also requires ceiling insulation above and below them to be at least R-19.

Choose High-Quality Ductwork Materials

Subpar ductwork materials can affect IAQ, especially improper insulation. Poor insulation inside air ducts can cause temperature imbalances that lead to condensation and mold growth. Mold spores can then be released from the ductwork and spread throughout your home. Dust, pollen, and other external pollutants can also get into ducts that aren’t properly insulated.

The material a duct is made of matters as well. While easy to install and corrosion-resistant, aluminum ducts aren’t very strong. They’re also vulnerable to thermal expansion and prone to damage that can affect indoor air quality. Flexible ducts can also cause issues. They must be installed properly or else tearing, crimping, and sagging can cause airflow and IAQ issues. The more sustainable materials to consider for air duct installation include:

• Galvanized Steel: Sheet metal ducts are non-porous, reducing the risk of mold. They’re also strong, durable, and non-combustible. They are available as rectangular ducts that more easily fit in limited spaces and round ducts that maximize airflow capacity.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass insulation is often used in sheet metal ducts to prevent condensation. Fiberglass ducts are highly insulative, corrosion-resistant, and block sound from HVAC components and other sources.
• Fiberboard: Fiberboard ducts consist of resin-bonded fiberglass strands. A foil covers the exterior and provides an air and moisture barrier. While the interior isn’t smooth like metal, fiberboard is airtight so long as joints and seams are properly sealed.

Install a Filter at the Return Intake

Return air should be filtered at the last possible point before it reaches the fan. The ideal location is where the return duct connects to an HVAC unit’s intake. A filter here can capture particles from any source, ensuring clean air and protecting mechanical components.

Return grille filters are different. They cover vents that suck air from a room that’s pulled back into your HVAC system. However, they don’t protect against contamination from leaky ducts. Leaks in return ducts beyond the filtration point can pull air and pollutants from the basement, garage, attic, crawlspace, or outside. Properly installed ducts and a well-placed return filter prevent dirt, mold, asbestos, rodent feces, lead dust, and fumes from paints and solvents from getting pulled into the system.

Make Sure All Filters Are Properly Sized

People often think high-efficiency filters block airflow and cause pressure drops in their ductwork. However, a high-quality filter shouldn’t have much of an impact. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) measures how well a filter captures airborne particles and common pollutants. A MERV 13 filter is considered highly efficient. Despite a thicker filtration media, such a filter works best if it’s well-constructed and fits the filter area (so no air can get around it).

Use Mastic to Prevent Leaks

Mastic can be used during air duct installation to seal all joints and seams. It’s also easier to put on ducts during installation when you have full access to your ductwork. When properly applied, mastic can minimize air leakage over the long term, as it’s resistant to deterioration and doesn’t lose adhesion.

Install an In-Duct Air Purifier

In-duct air purifiers serve as whole-home air filtration systems. They include ultraviolet (UV) air purifiers that neutralize germs and odors in your home. Ionization air purifiers are also available. They electrically charge air molecules, causing dust, smoke, and other particles to bond with them and fall to surfaces where they can be wiped or vacuumed away. 

Installing an air purifier during air duct installation ensures you benefit from clean air right away. It can also prevent dirt from building up in ducts in the first place.

In addition to improving indoor air quality, an in-duct, whole-home purifier can have the following benefits:

• Increased Energy Efficiency: Fewer particles and buildup in your ductwork means air can flow more smoothly, allowing your HVAC system to work more efficiently.
• Fewer Repairs: Dust and debris in ducts can make their way into blowers, compressors, and other components; efficient removal can avoid damage and increase the system’s lifespan.
• Reduced Maintenance: Clean, properly installed ducts help reduce repair costs and the need for professional air duct cleaning, which averages a few hundred dollars.
• Smoke-Free Home: If your house has a chimney, smoke can get through air vents. An in-duct air purifier neutralizes smoke before it pollutes indoor air.
• Cleaner Air: High-quality air duct installation, along with a whole-home purifier, can mean bacteria, viruses, fungi, pollen, animal dander, and other contaminants are removed before they can cause allergy symptoms, respiratory problems, or illnesses.

Contact TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

Properly installed ductwork can improve indoor air quality. At TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing , we provide air sealing, insulation, and duct cleaning services in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Our experienced professionals also replace air duct filters and install whole-house purification systems. They also install air scrubbers in the ductwork. For more information about our HVAC, insulation, and air quality services and to request help, call (415) 234-4728 today.