Red Seal Sheet Metal Worker Practice Exam

Energy loss in HVAC systems is significantly impacted by poor insulation and leakage in duct design. When ducts are not adequately insulated, heat can escape from the conditioned air as it travels through the ducts, especially if they are located in unconditioned spaces like attics or crawl spaces. This can lead to increased energy consumption as the system works harder to maintain the desired temperature in the living areas. Leakage occurs when there are cracks, holes, or improperly sealed joints in the ductwork. This allows air to escape from the ducts before it reaches its intended destination, resulting in reduced airflow and making the HVAC system less efficient. As a consequence, the system must operate longer and at higher capacity to compensate for the lost conditioned air, which further drives up energy costs. In contrast, the other options present scenarios that do not directly contribute to energy loss as significantly. Using rubber seals in joints can lead to better sealing if done properly, while short duct runs typically minimize energy loss because they reduce the distance that air must travel. High-quality duct materials can enhance overall system efficiency by ensuring better airflow and fewer leaks, and therefore, do not contribute to energy loss.