As mentioned, we have replaced all of the ductwork in the house. As part of this work, we did some extra research on how to boost the efficiency of a forced air heating and cooling system. While we are going with geothermal as a heating/cooling source, a forced air system is still required in order to distribute the heated/cooled air throughout the house.
What we learned is that prime spots for air leakage include furnace-to-duct connections, seams in the duct-work and register assemblies. In a forced air system dampers can be installed within the first few feet of each branch, or takeoff, allow for airflow to be regulated to a specific part of the house.
While it was not an issue to request that all of the ductwork be sealed, I think that I have it right that it is something that we had to specifically ask for. I guess the other option is to do it yourself after the contractor has installed the ductwork (but I bet that would impact the warranty, etc). If I can't have my old floor grates, I at least want an efficient forced air system!
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