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Dulley's Money-Saving Tip #1085

Check tightness of screws on indoor blower cabinet

(related column topic links - (446, 890, 908)

Current research is indicating that a lot of the inefficiencies in forced air heating and air-conditioning systems are from air leaks throughout the duct system. The cooled or heated air does not really get to the places in your house where it is needed. A lot of it is often lost in or very near the basement or utility room.

Check the tightness of all the screws that hold the sheet metal panel sides on the air handler (main blower unit) in your basement or utility room. With a screwdriver, snug down all the screws. Don't overtighten them. It is easy to strip them because they just screw into sheet metal. If these panels are loose, air will be drawn in the gaps instead of being drawn from the air return registers throughout your house.