What Should I Do with my Plumbing Problem?

[williwatt]

I have a plumbing leak or leaks that I would normally just fix myself, but the water is coming from plumbing that is located behind an HVAC duct that is wrapped with foil insulation. I can barely see where the leaks are coming from if I shine a light behind the duct. What I am trying to decide is: do I remove the duct so I can get to the leaks, repair the problem, and then replace the duct, or should I call a plumber/HVAC company and pay what I figure will be a high price to fix it? I have two air systems and this is the one that heats/cools the upper level of my split level, so I could stand to have that system down for as long as it takes to do the repair. Any suggestions?

Bill

[ragswl4]

My approach is always if I think I can do it I will attempt it. I can always stop at a point where I think I might screw it up and then call the Pros. The worst case is that you will have removed some material that the Pro would have to anyway so not much lost there.

At the current prices that the Pros charge for repairs I figure I can attempt it 2 or 3 times before I reach the cost of the Pro. Just my philosophy.

[LCHIEN]

they say every problem deserves a new tool. I think this one deserves a new house.

[scorrpio]

I am sure that insulation can be easily removed in order to let you have a better look at the duct. Then, you can see what would it take to remove the duct section, and more importantly, give you some idea if you'll be able to replace the duct section afterwards. In most cases, joints are formed by sliding one section into another, and securing with foil tape, and sometimes with a clamp. If that is the case, you should have no problem.

[Rand]

I seriously doubt you will screw up the ducting and insulation any more than a plumber would. Go for it!!!

[williwatt]

My water leak turned out to be the storage tank for my Reverse Osmosis water filter. The bladder had ruptured and water was leaking out the bottom. Although I didn't have to remove the HVAC duct, I did run into some complications because the plywood under the sink was totally ruined. Since the cabinets were built in-place, I had to saw the plywood out using my B & D Zip saw and a thin-kerf hand saw.

[Uncle Cracker]

Take out the duct and do what you must. Then you will see what duct tape is really meant for...