Even the most efficient HVAC unit won’t be able to cool or heat your home properly without good ductwork design. So what are the hallmarks of optimal duct design?
Albert Air, your trusted air conditioning service company, lists them below:
1. Straight ducts. Bends in the ducts reduce the momentum of the air circulating through them. If there are too many bends in the ducts, air will come out of the vents more slowly.
2. Round elbows. The gentler turns air makes around round elbows help preserve its momentum and improve the flow of air through your ductwork.
3. Correct duct type. Most of your ductwork should be made from straight, rectangular, hard metal ducts. Round, spiral or oval ducts should only be used in spaces where rectangular ducts can’t fit.
4. Appropriately-sized air ducts. Your air ducts should be large enough to accommodate the volume and speed of the air flowing through the ductwork. In addition to the air volume and velocity, you also need to factor in the size of your home, friction loss and your HVAC system’s static pressure when calculating the size of your air ducts.
5. Insulated air ducts. Air ducts passing through areas that frequently experience extreme temperatures or places that aren’t conditioned (like your attic) need to be insulated. Without adequate insulation, additional heating or cooling will be needed to return the temperature of the air flowing through the ducts to optimal levels.
How Often Should You Have Your Air Ducts Inspected?
Even with an optimal ductwork design, leaks may develop in your air ducts, or the insulation may get damaged over time. That’s why, as a general rule, you should have your ductwork inspected by an HVAC repair company every three years.
One more thing: Always vet a contractor before hiring them to make sure they’re qualified for the job.
Have you been searching online for “duct cleaning or air conditioning repair near me“? Albert Air has been offering professional HVAC services to local residents since 1982. To request a free estimate, call us at (714) 526-6368 or fill out this form.