I am planning to put a cold air return in a 2nd floor bedroom. The shortest path to a return box/branch is through the attic as in the pictures. This does not require cutting any top or sill plates in the walls. Point 1 is the bedroom wall, point 2 is where the access to a big return box is. I am planning to use 6" flex duct. The distance between the two points as shown is about 8'. The house is in Chicago suburbs.
Will there be any problems if I just lay the duct on top the attic floor insulation as shown in the pictures?
Thanks in advance.
Marq1. I think my options are insulated flex duct or metal duct wrapped in a duct sleeve, right?
Pilot Dane. I read online that flex duct must be stretched tight. Does this mean it's cut it a bit short and stretched when attaching to takeoff and boot?
Since it's shipped compressed you want to fully straighten out the flex duct. This will help get rid of folds inside that can restrict airflow or trap moisture. Do not install it under tension since that can cause it to eventually pull free. So... somewhere in between. I give it a pull (grab everything so you pull on both on the inner and outer portions) to make sure the inner lining is straightened then install it so it does have a bit of extra length but not enough that it can kink or sag excessively.
Hello. I am planning to relocate ducting on my gas dryer. Planning to cut a hole in the bottom plate of the wall behind the dryer and route the duct through an interior concrete slab crawl space. It will exit through a hole in the rim joist. I watched several online videos, still have some questions.
1) Is it worth trying to line up the wall inlet with the dryer exhaust port to eliminate bends in the connector duct?
2) The wall behind the dryer is a 2x6. Is it ok for the duct to be in contact with the bottom plate? (I guess the duct will be hot when the dryer runs)
3) Should the wall vent be slightly tilted back toward the wall to help the damper close completely?
Thank you in advance for your advice.
Hello. I have a 12x24 return vent box 14" deep that is installed to the wall on top of the stairwell. The back of that wall is unconditioned attic space with no access. I want to seal the seams on this box to prevent any air being pulled from the unconditioned space. Will there be any issues (like air quality, code violation etc) if I apply a sealant like the Ductmate ProSeal to the seams on the inside of that box?
Thanks in advance.
09-07-22, 04:52 AM
