This is a common question for those who are looking to improve the efficiency of their air conditioning system. The answer is yes, an existing sealant can be removed from an air duct before resealing it. As an expert in the field of air conditioning systems, I can confirm that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA), and the National Association of Metal Plate Contractors and Air Conditioning (SMACNA) all agree that sealing ducts is beneficial in extreme weather conditions. This helps to prevent air from escaping the ducts and potentially contaminated air from entering them.
In some cases, air duct cleaning service providers may suggest applying a chemical biocide to the inside of the ducts in order to kill bacteria, germs, and mold and prevent future biological growth. An evaluator will visually verify that all joints and connections are sealed with putty or metal tape and that all duct covers are sealed to the floor, wall, or ceiling with putty, foam, or adhesive tape. Manufacturers of products marketed to coat and encapsulate duct surfaces claim that these sealants prevent dust and dirt particles inside air ducts from being released into the air. This helps air conditioning get where it's needed, at the right temperature, without absorbing contaminants from mezzanines and attics.
When it comes to duct cleaning methods, there are various approaches that industry associations that deal with air duct cleaning have established standards for. However, these practices have not yet been thoroughly investigated, so it's important to be well informed before deciding to allow the use of biocides or chemical treatments in your air ducts. The most effective way to avoid contamination is to prevent water and dirt from entering the system.
Sealing the air conditioning ducts properly
is essential to ensure that all air is supplied from the house's central air conditioning system to the terminations of the supply grid without any air leaks.Controlling humidity is also an effective way to prevent biological growth in all types of air ducts.
