What is the purpose of insulating supply ducts in attics?

Insulating supply ducts in attics serves multiple important purposes, with energy efficiency being a primary goal. When ducts are insulated, they help maintain the temperature of the air being transported throughout the home. In the hot Louisiana climate, uninsulated ducts can lose cool air as it passes through the attic, where temperatures can rise significantly. This energy loss not only leads to increased utility costs, as the HVAC system must work harder to maintain desired indoor temperatures, but it also affects overall comfort levels in the home.

Insulating the ducts minimizes this thermal loss, thus improving the system's overall energy efficiency. By keeping the air cool as it travels through the ducts, less energy is required to maintain temperature, leading to lower energy costs and a more comfortable living environment. This focus on energy efficiency aligns with broader goals of sustainability and reduced environmental impact.

While the other choices present some considerations—like noise reduction and preventing condensation—these are secondary benefits compared to the significant impact that insulation has on energy consumption and efficiency. Aesthetic regulations are generally not a factor in the insulation of supply ducts, as this aspect is not visible in the finished interiors of homes.