Temperatures in the Middle East are rising, simultaneously causing an increase in the Middle East air conditioning market. Despite consuming high levels of energy, the use of air-cooling units is essential in this region. But, with up to 30% of air lost while moving through duct systems, it’s time to address the issue of leaky ductwork.
Written by: Brett Smyth, General Manager, IDEAL Electrical™ EMEA and APAC
The State of the Middle East Climate
Due to its hot, dry climate, countries in the Middle East are known to have some of the highest temperatures in the world; Kuwait, Iran, Iraq, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have all recently surpassed temperatures of 50°C. The blistering heat is not only here to stay, but temperatures are actually expected to continue ro rise. A recent report found the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region is warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, with an accelerated rate of 0.4°C per decade since the 1980s. By 2050, it is predicted the region could be as much as 4°C warmer.
To maintain thermal comfort, air conditioning equipment is prevalent throughout the region’s buildings – both residential and commercial. For example, more than 60% of Qatar’s electricity is used for cooling air, while the figure is even higher in neighbouring UAE where air cooling systems account for up to 85% of buildings’ energy consumption. Temperatures are so hot, in fact, that Qatar has taken to air conditioning outside spaces, including markets, sidewalks, outdoor malls and stadiums which were used during the 2022 World Cup.
Whilst air cooling systems account for a large proportion of energy consumption in this region, their use is essential in keeping the population comfortable, particularly in the face of soaring temperatures. Unsurprisingly, significant continued growth is expected in the Middle East air conditioning market. But there’s an often-overlooked energy guzzler lurking in air-conditioned buildings which negatively impacts the effectiveness of air conditioning equipment – and that is compromised ducts.
The Consequences of Leaky Ductwork
Ductwork plays an important role in buildings with cooling systems, distributing the conditioned air around the building. When properly sealed, they keep buildings comfortable year-round and, used effectively, can even contribute to reduced energy bills. However, duct leaks are common and, as ductwork is often located in difficult to see and reach areas, leaks can easily go unnoticed.
Figures suggest that, in a typical home, a staggering 20-30% of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly installed ducts, resulting in a less efficient heating and cooling system, uncomfortable living conditions and increased energy bills, as compromised ductwork forces the system to work harder to compensate for the losses.
Such leaks can have an adverse effect on occupants’ health, with leaks allowing dust, debris and unwanted pests and rodents to enter the ductwork, as well as moisture which causes mould to grow, all negatively impacting the air quality inside the building.
Benefits of Sealing Ducts
The benefits of sealing ducts are clear – improved comfort thanks to even cooling, cleaner air quality and, crucially, energy savings and reduced bills – and, fortunately, there is a simple solution to tackle leaky ductwork.
Suitable for plugging cracks, holes and other breaches in ductwork, the IDEAL Electrical asbestos-free Duct Seal is a grey, permanently soft, non-toxic compound which adheres to most clean, dry surfaces. It will not adversely affect other plastic materials or corrode metals and has no adverse effect on human skin. It may be painted immediately after application and will not bleed through dry paint.
In addition to heating and cooling, refrigeration, plumbing and metal fabrication applications, IDEAL Electrical Duct Seal is also an excellent general-purpose sealant and can be used to seal around electrical boxes, flashings, service mast entries and more, sealing the building envelope and ensuring reduced energy usage and increased comfort levels.
Don’t Underestimate Efficient Ductwork
With its already hot temperatures rising, the Middle East will continue to rely on air conditioning equipment so it’s vital that it’s working as effectively as possible. The benefits of sealing ducts must not be underestimated; in addition to improved comfort and air quality, the contribution to improved efficiency throughout buildings is significant, and should not be overlooked as we move towards the efficient buildings of the future.
