As an expert in the field of HVAC and plumbing, I have encountered numerous questions about duct sealant and its effectiveness. One of the most common questions I receive is whether or not duct sealant will dry out over time. In this article, I will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of duct sealant, its uses, and whether or not it will dry out. Firstly, it is important to understand the difference between oil-based and water-based duct sealant. Oil-based duct sealant is a soft compound that is often compared to mass.
It is designed for ease of handling and installation, and was originally developed for HVAC purposes. On the other hand, water-based duct sealant is primarily used for plumbing purposes. Duct sealant is used to create a seal that blocks moisture, dust, and air movement and can also block noise. This material is non-conductive, non-corrosive, and will never dry, allowing it to be easily removed, reshaped and reapplied when needed. While duct sealant is designed to repel moisture, it is primarily used to seal air leaks rather than plumbing leaks.
Therefore, it has somewhat limited plumbing applications and is most often used to repair air ducts and for other electrical or HVAC purposes. However, as an expert in the field, I can tell you that your plumber may use duct sealant when working with an appliance such as a washing machine, refrigerator, or dishwasher. This is because duct sealant can be used to protect areas with electrical connections or to ensure that outlets and switches are safe from nearby water sources. It is important to note that if you have rigid pipe ducts with insulation, you'll have to remove all that insulation, seal any leaks, and then replace the insulation. Plumber putty is another common product used for sealing purposes. It easily repels water to create an airtight seal, but it's not designed to seal areas subject to significant water pressure.
Plumbing putty can also be used to seal faucets during pipe installation, but it is not suitable for sealing threaded or unthreaded water supply pipes, which suffer from water pressure as water flows through them. From reducing energy loss to improving indoor air quality, there are many good reasons to seal leaking ducts. However, it is important to understand the best way to apply each product before attempting to do it yourself. As an expert, I highly recommend seeking professional help when it comes to duct sealing. Not only will this ensure that the job is done correctly, but it will also save you time and potential headaches in the long run.