What's Wrong With This Picture? Ducting Installation
Answer: Improper Repair/Installation of Ducting
The intention was to properly join the ducting system. However, I'm not certain the person doing the work had the proper skill or adequate knowledge. Apparently they knew they needed to close any gaps (even gaps created by modifying a large bucket) to prevent escaping conditioned air. It appears, though, they not only missed a joint, they also ran out of tape and decided to use whatever they had left in the toolbox; cardboard and electrician's tape, and who really knows what else?
Using foil type taping would be the correct solution for sealing the above duct joints. Frequently duct and vent pipes become disconnected for one reason or another. During a general home inspection it is the inspectors duty to review and discover these issues, if present. The problem is that while sometimes it's just conditioned air that's escaping, at other times it could be harmful carbon monoxide (CO) gases being allowed to penetrate living space.
Always consider the repair services of a professional when dealing with these types of infractions or defects.
Thank you Dennis Rommelfanger of our Orange County, CA inspection team for submitting the above photo.
Posted by Bill Zoller, U.S. Inspect - Blog
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