AboutFred Weldin Expertise I can't help you if your whatsis won't work, people (Especially if it's a refrigerator); I have no experience with appliances, and I haven't been involved with H&AC service and repair since March 08, 1996 (Thank the Lord); I reject appliance questions and H&AC "Service and Repair" questions (about 18 a week), so if you want to know why your whatsis isn't working like it used to, ask someone else. I delete answers that are unread after one week (about three a month).
If you have questions about how big a unit you need, if one room's warmer than the others, if you want an opinion on bids received, etc. just ask. Do visit askweldin.com, there's a lot of good information on sizing, ductwork, efficiency, as well as some techniques accomplished DIY-ers can use to troubleshoot and improve their H&AC.
Finally, I want to thank all of the kind, serious people whom I meet here; I enjoy working with you.
Experience 50+ years in the business. See askweldin.com
Education/Credentials B of ME U of D 1965, numerous classes and seminars since.
Question I have a platform return (AKA air handler platform) on my HVAC system. This is just a 2x4 framed platform with sheetrock on the exposed sides. I know I need to seal this with 181-rated mastic and mesh tape, but as long as I'm in there I'd like to insulate it as well. I am having trouble finding fiberglass duct board (at Lowes I got a blank stare when I asked if they had it# so I am looking for alternatives. Regular fiberglass insulation is out of the question as this is the air return path, and foam insulation is not allowed. So what else could I use? I've seen the thin #5/16) aluminum "hollow core" insulation which might work. I don't care the R value, I just want something in there. I am replacing the sheetrock so it's open and I have full access to the inside.
Answer Gary:
I assume this system is in a residence (Or at least serves a volume less than 25,000 cubic feet). Why not put in R13 between the studs and then drywall the inside of the platform? It's "legal", and it'd provide a much higher insulating value than you'd get with board. Be sure to carefully clean out the inside. You could use panning metal instead of the drywall.
