If you’re like many Chicago-area homeowners, the status of your ductwork doesn’t cross your mind often. But just like your attic or basement, your HVAC ducts can benefit from proper insulation. In fact, duct insulation plays a key role in your home’s energy efficiency, indoor comfort, and heating and cooling costs. This guide will answer all your top questions, including:
- What is duct insulation?
- Do you really need it?
- What are the benefits?
- How do you know if your ducts need insulation?
As a leading local Chicagoland insulation company, ARC Insulation is here to help you understand your options and make the smartest choice for your home.
What Is Duct Insulation?
Duct insulation involves wrapping the HVAC ductwork in your home with spray foam insulation or cellulose insulation designed to reduce heat loss or gain as air travels through them.
Ducts are typically located in unconditioned or semi-conditioned areas of the home, such as:
-
Attics
-
Unfinished basements
-
Crawl spaces
-
Garages
Duct Sealing
When it comes to insulating a home, we almost never talk about insulating without air sealing. And the same is true for ductwork; if we are going to insulate, we also want to air seal! We utilize a process called Aeroseal, which is sprayed into the ductwork and sucked into the holes and gaps, where it permanently seals them. This eliminates all air loss, improving energy efficiency and comfort alongside ductwork insulation.
Why Is Duct Insulation Important in Chicago Homes?
Chicago winters can be brutally cold, and summers are increasingly humid. That means your HVAC system works overtime to keep your home comfortable. If your ductwork isn’t properly insulated, your HVAC has to work even harder to deliver that conditioned air to your rooms.
Here’s why duct insulation matters in Chicagoland:
Improved Comfort
Insulated ducts keep warm air warm and cool air cool as it moves through your home. This leads to more even room temperatures and fewer hot or cold spots.
Lower Energy Bills
Preventing energy loss in your ductwork means your furnace and AC don’t have to run as long, reducing your utility costs.
Less Wear on HVAC Systems
When ducts are insulated, your HVAC doesn’t have to compensate for temperature losses. That can extend the life of your system.
Better Air Quality
Insulated ducts are less likely to form condensation, which helps prevent mold and mildew.
Signs Your Ducts May Need Insulation
Here are a few signs that it might be time to call in the pros to add insulation to your ductwork:
- Inconsistent room-to-room temperatures
- A steady increase in energy bills without drastic changes in settings
- Visible metal ductwork in unconditioned spaces with no wrapping
- Ducts that feel hot in summer or cold in winter
- Excessive dust or humidity
- More frequent heating or AC breakdowns
If any of these apply, a professional inspection can help determine whether duct insulation is the missing piece.
Can You Insulate Ducts Yourself?
While some homeowners attempt to DIY duct insulation, professional installation ensures long-term performance and code compliance. A misstep could lead to restricted airflow or insufficient coverage.
Work With a Trusted Local Insulation Company
ARC Insulation has helped thousands of homeowners in the Chicago area improve their home efficiency with smart, effective upgrades. As a leading local insulation company, we specialize in duct insulation, air sealing, attic insulation, and more.
We start every job with a home energy assessment to determine where your home is losing energy and how we can help you save. We’ll help you understand your home’s energy performance and recommend upgrades that deliver year-round comfort and savings.
