Indicators of Good Ductwork Design

Good ductwork design is a vital factor and indicator for an efficient building or residence. Your heating and cooling systems may condition the air for you, but it’s your air ducts that convey the conditioned air to the rooms of your home. Following are indicators and best practices of good duct design.

Properly Sized

The size of your duct runs and returns, such as width, length, and diameter, should be tailored to the rooms of your home based on sound building science. Your HVAC contractor determines duct sizing using software that factors in dozens of measurements and assessments, such as heat gain/loss factors, sun orientation, square footage, and more.

Sealed Tight

If your car’s tires have holes in them, you won’t get very far. If you have leaks in your air ducts, your energy dollars aren’t going to stretch very far, either. Metal ducts are generally fabricated to fit together. However, approved sealants and metal tape indicate good duct design that will stay tight through the years.

Ductwork Materials

One of the shortcuts used in older building construction was using voids inside walls as air ducts. All conditioned airflow should be conveyed through industry approved products and materials. These typically include insulated flex ducts or insulated metal ducts.

In All the Right Places

The location of your air ducts is very important to efficiency. Uninsulated ducts located in unconditioned spaces are going to suffer substantial heat gain/loss, which takes a toll on your heat pump and your pocketbook. Try to keep duct runs and returns within the conditioned areas of your home. When that isn’t possible, ducts should be insulated.

Quality Assurance

When designed and installed correctly, ducts provide you great comfort and efficiency. This can only be determined if they are tested after installation or a repair. Ask your HVAC provider how he or she tests their work.

The best indicator of how your ductwork will perform is the HVAC contractor you decide to work with. Contact NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating for the best service, installation, and repairs in Martin County, Palm Beach County and Indian River County.