Erie, Pennsylvania, June 6, 2006---- Dura-Tite Systems™, LLC, introduces a revolutionary polypropylene heating, cooling, ventilation duct system of connectors and takeoffs to the HVAC industry. DuraTite’s first product, a 7” trunkline take-off and optional damper was unveiled at the Affordable Comfort, Inc Show in Austin, May 24-25 and will be available for distribution early this summer. DuraTite’s take-off features a new Clip and Zip™ fastening system that secures the take-off in seconds. DuraTite’s founder and CEO Jim Karnes is the first to patent this type of plastic ducting for HVAC delivery systems in the residential and light commercial construction industry. The current energy crisis has boosted the value of energy saving products, and the plastic take-offs are able to seal tightly and do not conduct like metal connectors. Duct leakage is a major problem in the residential housing and light commercial buildings and building codes are changing to address these issues. DuraTite Duct Systems is not only an energy efficient and cost effective alternative, but adds the ease of installation and eliminates the problems of metal cuts and sealant mess. 

“The National Association of Home Builders has done numerous studies that show as much as 30% of energy being lost through leaky duct systems. I was convinced there was a better way so I created the self sealing DuraTite Duct System,” according to Karnes. The DuraTite Duct System provides airtight connections, greatly reducing air/heat loss and while saving up to 50% in installation time. “Our time trials have shown that the DuraTite take-off installed 5 to 10 times faster (depending on the method of sealing) than metal”, Karnes added. Compared to metal connectors, DuraTite’s advantages are clear: no sharp edges, faster installation, dent proof, light weight, non conductive, rust proof and no sealants required. The DuraTite fittings are flexible and not easily susceptible to damage and will actually help the flexible duct work perform better by creating a better seal, smoothing out the bends and creating a faster and tighter connection to trunk lines. 


The current energy crisis situation also creates a more apparent need for conservation. In California, there was a standard imposed in 2005 that required duct systems to comply with minimum duct leakage rates in order to meet code. In addition, the current housing market inspection process will reward tighter ducts with tax credits and energy-efficient trade-offs which will facilitate quick penetration and acceptance of the DuraTite System into the housing market. Clearly, the potential savings from using the DuraTite sealed duct system and the ease of installation will be significant not only for the HVAC contractor, but also for the weekend do-it-yourselfer. 

The trend in the housing industry, as well as many other industries, has been converting to plastic for years. Plastic makes sense in almost every application and is durable, more functional and energy-efficient, easier and safer to handle. Now picture the entire HVAC system—boots, registers, etc. made out of light-weight plastic that can snap together and seal airtight. DuraTite Systems is the next step in the transition to plastic. DuraTite Systems is headquartered in Erie, Pennsylvania and will exhibit their first duct system product, the 7” trunk line take-off and damper at several upcoming industry shows. For more information on DuraTite Systems you can contact us at 1-866-217-3872 or email us at info@duratite.com.

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