Troubleshooting Foil Tape Challenges: Common Issues for HVAC Installers and How to Solve Them
Foil tapes play an important part in ductwork and HVAC efficiency
When industry pros discuss HVAC system efficiency, they frequently focus on SEER or AFUE ratings, insulating the environment and overall system design. But the performance of the system also relies on the physical characteristics and details of the installation: connecting and sealing joints, seams, plenum boxes and other components. So it’s important to consider the materials used to complete these tasks.
Foil tapes play an important part in ductwork and HVAC efficiency. And, just as a furnace has to be properly sized for the space, foil tape must also be matched to the conditions to perform at its best.
To fully appreciate the value of foil tape in the efficiency and long-term performance of HVAC systems, consider these three common installation issues and what the right type of foil tape can do to solve them.
1. Air leaks
The primary purpose of sealing duct joints and other HVAC components using foil tape is to prevent air leaks and create optimal airflow. Air loss caused by failed tape seals is a major contributor to poor system efficiency, causing the system to run longer and work harder to achieve the set temperature.
When an HVAC system is sealed with a well-matched, high-quality foil tape, it can produce the desired temperature faster while using less energy. A properly sealed system also ensures the maximum volume of conditioned air is delivered into the environment with fewer heating or cooling cycles and less wear and tear on components over time.
To prevent air leaks and support airflow optimization under normal heating and cooling conditions, opt for a foil tape that is UL 181A-P or UL 181B-FX Listed, like Shurtape’s AF 099 Aluminum Foil Tape. These tapes form airtight bonds on joints and seams in temperature ranges from -20 F to 260 F and are a versatile choice for joints, connections and seams on rigid fiberglass ductboard and flexible air ducts.
2. Heat transfer
In excessively hot or cold temperatures, heat transfer between the foil tape on the ducts and the environment can negatively impact the temperature of the conditioned air and reduce system efficiency. Foil tape that minimizes heat transfer ensures that conditioned air remains at the desired temperature. Like sealing air leaks and optimizing airflow, preventing heat transfer also has a positive effect on system efficiency and equipment life.
To minimize heat transfer under extreme conditions, choose a foil tape that’s designed to perform within the expected temperature range. Shurtape’s AF 914CT Cold Temperature Aluminum Foil Tape, for example, features an acrylic-based adhesive that adheres to stainless steel ductwork and sheet metal in temperatures as low as -20 F.
3. Condensation
When condensation forms around low-quality foil tape seals, it creates conditions inside the ductwork that can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. Moisture inside ductwork also reduces system efficiency and makes the conditioned air and surrounding environment feel less comfortable, so choosing a foil tape that protects ductwork in damp or humid conditions is critical.
To control condensation in indoor and outdoor applications, select a water-resistant tape like Shurtape’s SF 686 ShurMASTIC® Butyl Foil Tape. UL 181B-FX Listed, this tape creates airtight and moisture-free seals on Class 1 Flex Duct, sheet metal and duct wrap vapor barriers and performs in temperatures from -20 F to 200 F.
The Right Foil Tape Makes Ductwork Shine
As a producer of high-quality sheet metal work, you want to see your work perform at its best after installation. To improve ductwork performance and increase its impact on HVAC system efficiency, first, consider what your foil tape will be expected to do. Then, choose your tape accordingly to seal with confidence.
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