Sealing old ducts and outlets as part of your VEU Upgrade

Sealing old ductwork as part of your upgrade

If you are going to upgrade your old ducted system through EZYAIR and the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, you must seal old ducted outlets properly as the final step to maximising your home's energy efficiency and comfort.

Important Considerations:

• Insulation is Key: Simply covering the hole isn't enough for maximum efficiency. Ensure you add insulation material behind or within whatever cover or patch you install to prevent heat transfer. Many specific vent sealing products will incorporate this.
  
  
• Airtightness Matters: Use sealant or caulk to eliminate drafts around the edges of your chosen sealing method if not inherently airtight.

Your Thermal Envelope Matters!

Leaving old ceiling outlets unsealed after removing your old system might seem like a minor oversight, but it can lead to several issues:

• Energy Inefficiency: Those open or poorly sealed vents can become significant sources of heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. This means your new, efficient system has to work harder, negating energy savings.
  
  
• Drafts and Discomfort: Unsealed outlets can create uncomfortable drafts, making rooms feel colder or hotter than they should be.
  
  
• Pest Entry Points: Openings in your ceiling can unfortunately become access points for unwanted pests like insects or rodents.
  
  
• Dust and Debris: Old ductwork connected to unsealed MDOs can accumulate dust and debris, which may find its way into your living spaces, affecting air quality.
  
  
• Noise Transmission: Open vents can also allow for easier transmission of noise between rooms or from the roof cavity.

It is EZYAIR's opinion that properly sealing these outlets is a key part of ensuring your home is as energy-efficient and comfortable as possible, aligning perfectly with the common goals of energy conservation with the VEU program.

DIY, Specialised Products or Plastering?

There are three options for sealing the old outlets. The best approach will depend on your budget and desired aesthetic finish. Each option is listed below with the appropriate links:

1. DIY Sealing Methods:

For a quick, less permanent solution, you can purchase generic plastic or metal vent covers that are slightly larger than the old outlets that sit over the top of the old outlet. For example, a search on eBay for "Evaporative cooler vent covers, Air con vent covers, ceiling vent covers" which can show you some quick and temporary options in sealing your old outlets.

Pros: Cheap, quick, and minimal tools required.

Cons: May not be fully airtight, offers minimal insulation and it might not look finished. Customer must be DIY handy and also be responsible for supply and installation.

2. Draft Proofing Products:

EZYAIR supplies and installs a wide range of quality covers and solutions specifically designed for sealing vents and stopping draughts. These products include standard size covers, custom made covers, draught blockers and insulating materials that can be adapted for floor registers and ceiling outlets:

Pros: Aesthetically more pleasing than a cheaper DIY solution. Better insulation, airtightness, longevity and efficiency. 

Cons: Supply and installation costs more than DIY. The cost varies depending on the size of the existing outlets to be sealed and your sales rep can assist you with selecting the correct product to seal your outlets.

3. Plastering:

Plastering the old outlets provides the best aesthetic finish, gives the most thermal insulation and makes the old ceiling outlets disappear.

Professional plasterers are required for this type of solution. It is best to book the plasterer for the day after EZYAIR completes the work or purchase a DIY kit from eBay to seal the outlet until a plasterer can cover the holes where the old outlets were.

Pros: Provides a permanent, airtight, and invisible repair. Best for aesthetics and long-term energy efficiency.

Cons: It is the most expensive option and requires specialised plastering and painting skills. Being Electricians, Plumbers and Refrigeration Mechanics, EZYAIR does not offer professional plastering or painting services at this time. Plastering and sanding can also leave fine dust particles in the area below, so soft furnishings should be covered.

Energy Conservation

By taking the time to properly seal the outlets or holes in your ceiling your VEU upgrade, you'll ensure your home is as comfortable and energy-efficient as it can be. It's the finishing touch that helps you fully reap the rewards of your investment in a greener heating and cooling solution.

If you are unsure about any aspect of sealing the old outlets, our consulting team will be happy to assist you with information on sealing up old vents, floor registers and outlets before and after our installation team has completed your installation.