When winter settles in across Vermont and upstate New York, homeowners rely heavily on their furnaces and heat pumps to stay warm and comfortable. What many don’t realize is that a significant amount of the air they’re paying to heat is leaking out through gaps and cracks in their ductwork. If you’re noticing inconsistent temperatures or unusually high utility bills, duct sealing could be the missing piece to a more comfortable and energy-efficient home. Many of our service calls involve heating in Burlington, where older duct systems lose conditioned air long before it reaches the rooms that need it.
Why Duct Leakage Matters in Cold Climates
In our region, cold snaps can push home heating systems to their limits. Ducts that run through unconditioned spaces—basements, crawlspaces, and attics—can easily leak 20–30% of the air passing through them. That’s air you’ve already paid to heat. When ducts leak, your furnace must work harder, run longer, and consume more energy. Over time, that added strain can lead to premature wear and expensive repairs.
Energy Loss Prevention
One of the biggest benefits of professional duct sealing is energy loss prevention. By sealing gaps, joints, and loose connections, we ensure conditioned air stays in the living spaces where it belongs. You’ll notice rooms heat more evenly, drafts disappear, and your thermostat won’t have to be constantly adjusted. Many homeowners are surprised at just how much of a difference proper duct sealing makes, especially when their heating system is already working overtime.
Challenges With Older Housing Stock
Older housing stock in Vermont and upstate NY presents unique challenges. Much of this housing was built long before modern energy-efficiency standards. Ductwork was often added later, poorly insulated, or routed through unconditioned areas. Over decades, metal ducts can shift, sag, or separate, creating gaps where warm air escapes. If your home is more than 30 years old, there’s a good chance duct leakage is costing you money every winter.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Beyond comfort and savings, duct sealing also improves indoor air quality. When ducts leak, they can draw dust, allergens, and even fumes from basements or crawlspaces into the airflow of your home. Proper sealing keeps the air cleaner, safer, and healthier for you and your family. Combined with regular filter changes and HVAC maintenance, it’s a great way to take control of your home’s indoor environment.
Environmental Benefits
From an environmental standpoint, duct sealing is one of the most impactful upgrades a homeowner can make. By reducing wasted energy, you lessen your carbon footprint and reduce demand on local utilities. It’s a small change with benefits that ripple outward: less fuel burned, fewer emissions released, and more money saved every month.
Trust Red Rock Mechanical with Your Duct Sealing Needs
At Red Rock Mechanical, we’ve seen firsthand how dramatic the improvement can be. Our licensed technicians use professional-grade materials and diagnostic tools to identify leaks you would never notice on your own. We can help you determine whether duct sealing, repairs, or insulation upgrades will offer the best return on investment for your home. Ready to tighten up your ducts, improve comfort, and cut your heating costs this winter?
