How to keep the air in your duct system and money in your wallet

You've identified leaks in your home's duct system, and they're costing money. Here's a tip from Santee Electric Co-op that can help your heating and cooling system work more efficiently-and reduce your utility bill.

According to Touchstoneenergy.com, sealing the air ducts in your home can save you up to $177 a year.

While some ducts are concealed in walls and between floors, others are exposed-in attics, crawlspace, basements and garages-and can be repaired by sealing. To start, you'll need mastic sealant or metal tape. Experts advise against using duct tape, which can dry out and disintegrate when used on duct work.

In addition to sealing any leaks that you have found, check the connections at vents and registers. They should be well-sealed where they meet the floors, walls and ceiling.

It's also important to insulate your duct system. As air travels through your ducts, you want it to stay cool during the summer and warm during the winter. Duct work located in areas with little or no insulation-crawlspaces, attics or garages-will need to be insulated to make sure that the air running through the ducts isn't affected by temperature extremes.

For other tips on how to save energy-and money-visit Touchstone Energy's energy-saving website. Find out how the little changes add up at Touchstoneenergy.com.