Our central air conditioner does not put out enough air. One thing that I noticed is that the unit (located in the basement) leaks a lot of air. It is nice and cool there, but the upstairs is warm. I want to seal the gaps around the unit. Is there any reason that why I should not use silicone to do this?
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Replies
Krico,
Acid cure silicone (smells like vinegar) eats holes in metal. Use duct mastic and fiberglass tape. Use some latex gloves.
KK
The simplest thing to use is foil-faced duct tape. Not the silvery stuff that Red Green uses (and which will fall off after 2 years), but a true foil stuff. Should be available in any big box near the ductwork. For odd-shaped areas use the mastic or "duct seal" -- electrician's putty.