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Seal ducts to save money, improve air quality

Some of the most cost-effective, sensible home improvements are also the least interesting. Sealing and insulating ductwork is a good example.

However, leaky, uninsulated ducts can lose a huge amount of energy through visible and not so visible tears and unsealed joints. And that costs you money as your heating and air conditioning systems work overtime. And as though that isn't bad enough, ducts can pull contaminated, dusty air loaded with mold spores into your living areas from attics, basements, and crawl spaces. This can result in severely compromised indoor air quality and can translate into higher health care costs for you and your family.

Start by checking air pressure. This will provide a baseline and give you and your ventilation contractor some idea of how extensive the leakage is.

Before signing the agreement, though, ask the contractor for proof of all current, state-required licensing and insurance. Read the contract carefully and ask any questions now that you might have about terms, conditions, scope of work, warranties, and maintenance.

Last but not least, call your electric or natural gas company and find out if they offer rebates or incentives for having ductwork sealed and insulated. Don't overlook local city or state sponsored energy programs either. Taken together, ductwork may not be interesting, but you could be a little warmer, healthier, and richer at the end of the year.

Verify contractor licensing in your city.