What Are the Air Duct Design Factors?
Ductwork is not something homeowners often think about. Aside from the air handler grates, it’s hidden under the floors or above the ceilings. And while its function is simply to transport air from the central heating or air system, several factors go into choosing the best ductwork design and material. Each home is different, and the needs of one home won’t exactly match the needs of another. This is why it’s good to know a little bit about the common types of air ducts!
Why Several Types of Air Ducts?
Duct design may seem easy, but it can get quite technical. The goal is to get optimum performance, striking a balance between efficiency and efficacy. This means looking at several factors, including the design of the house and how many BTUs (British thermal units) per hour it will take to heat and cool a given room. This requires calculations for the required cubic feet per minute for each room.
Once these figures are clear, it’s time to match them up with the right duct material and equipment. But it’s also important to consider other things, including the home's design and the climate. A home in a humid climate will usually require a different ductwork system than a home in a dry climate.
The 4 Most Common Air Duct Types
- Sheet Metal Ducts - Typically made of galvanized steel or aluminum, sheet metal air ducts come in different shapes and sizes. They’re the most common type of duct found in homes.
- Fiberglass Lined Ducts - Fiberglass can be used either inside or outside a sheet metal duct to reduce noise and provide insulation. This type of ductwork is often found in highly humid areas or in systems where the air supply is very cold.
- Fiberboard Ducts - Fiberboard ducts are generally inexpensive, providing insulation and sound dampening. The outside of this kind of ductwork is covered with foil and the inside is sealed so the inorganic materials used don’t get in the home’s air.
- Flexible Air Ducts - These types of ducts are also inexpensive, made with plastic over a spring-like metal skeleton, which gives them their characteristic flex.
Which Duct Is Best?
Getting the right air ducts for the home is easy with the help of a professional HVAC company. The right ducts can save homeowners money and prevent respiratory problems caused by mold growth in the ducts. Plus, durable ducts will hold up well to the occasional air duct cleaning!
About Anytime Plumbing, LLC
Anytime Plumbing, LLC has been serving Las Vegas, NV, since 1982! They provide honest recommendations from expert technicians. Plus, they provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job. Contact them today for AC services in Las Vegas, NV.
