The filter port, taped

Here are two photos of the taping job I did on my furnace in the basement. I’m sorry I don’t have the brand of tape that I used; I can get that later for those interested. But it is NOT plastic/vinyl duct tape. It IS metal tape; that is, it’s made of thin metal, probably aluminum, backed by a strong adhesive. It’s heavy-duty stuff and I would not recommend classic duct tape for ducting! The heating and cooling effects will wear down the adhesives and tape material, rendering it useless in short order. We’ve all seen old duct tape dropping off surfaces in brittle ribbons. Be sure to clean the surfaces where the metal tape will be applied– dust will prevent adhesion. I used a dust rag followed by a damp sponge.

I was not alone in this work. Another resident in my building helped me start work on what has proven a more substantial project than we’d first thought. The building has a few years on it and some of the galvanized ducting joints have come loose. Either they were only fitted, but never screwed, together, or screws have come loose. Some of the joints were covered in a white fabric tape that my neighbor seems to think is asbestos-based. Danger, Will Robinson! Please recognize that asbestos (no longer available) poses a serious health hazard and should be dealt with by professionals.

First two joints, taped

My neighbor and I reattached a few ducts, cleaned and taped quite a few joints, tightened hanger wires as needed, and even used a can of spray foam insulation to seal some joints. There’s more yet to be done, but I expect that, in the case of my own apartment, we’ve reduced heat loss by, say, 5-10%, maybe more.

This sort of work is an easy way to make a difference in your home energy consumption. You’ll lower your bills and reduce your carbon footprint. The cost for the metal tape is minimal (I just saw a roll online for under $3) and the time required is not substantial for a few joints.