Condensation On Ac Ducts In Attic

Ductwork located in an attic must be hung properly so that the insulation can do its job.

Condensation on ac ducts in attic.

Ducts sweat because the outside surfaces of the ducts are below the dew point of the air in their immediate surroundings. The primary ways to stop ducts from sweating is to raise the surface temperature of the ducts or to lower the dew point of the air surrounding the duct by some form of dehumidification. The last usual cause for condensation on a duct system is if the ducts are not properly hung or they are touching each other. Occasional condensation on a c ducts is not a problem but keeping an eye on the situation is recommended.

You can install insulation on the attic side of the register boot and you can make sure that your duct is adequately insulated. Persistent ductwork sweating may eventually lead to water damage. Over time condensation dripping from your ductwork onto attic insulation can cause it to compress which lowers its r value. The simple physics behind sweating is.

Whenever there is a contact between the hot humid air and cold metal surface then there will be sweating or condensation on the metal surface so it is very important to have a proper insulation for the air handler ducts in case the portion of the duct is coming in contact with the unconditioned air outside. It can also feed mold growth and cause ceiling joists to rot and sheetrock to disintegrate leading to unhealthy air quality in your home and the need for costly structural repairs. There are two main ways to solve this problem. The condensation forms when air of a different temperature meets the grill box and duct connecting the vent to the air conditioning unit.

Excessive condensation can also create conditions favorable to mold or mildew forming in areas surrounding the duct itself. When the hot humid attic air contacts the cold duct or the cold duct boot the moisture in the air condenses on the cold surface just like the condensation that happens on a cold can of beer. When ductwork is touching it forms a very cold spot where they are touching thus condensation begins. Improper or no insulation of ducts.

First water dripping off of your ducts and onto your insulation can cause the insulation to compress which decreases it s r value or ability to insulate. What causes condensation on ac vents. When water condenses and drips into your attic or home it can cause a some serious secondary problems.