To ensure optimal airflow, how should duct joints be maintained?

Maintaining duct joints as well sealed is crucial for ensuring optimal airflow within an HVAC system. Proper sealing prevents air leaks that can reduce system efficiency and increase energy costs. When ductwork joints are not sealed, conditioned air can escape into unconditioned spaces, leading to the system working harder to maintain desired temperatures, ultimately causing wear and tear on the equipment and inefficiency in operation.

Additionally, well-sealed joints help to maintain the system's pressure balance and improve overall indoor air quality by minimizing the introduction of contaminants from unconditioned areas. Sealing methods can include the use of mastic sealants, foil tape, or gasket materials designed specifically for duct sealant applications. Employing these techniques ensures a continuous pathway for air, which enhances the system's overall performance and longevity. This focus on proper sealing is essential for both energy efficiency and effective climate control in a building space.