Your Guide to the Types of Ducts
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The ductwork hidden behind your walls and ceilings is a crucial component of your forced-air HVAC system. When the duct system is well-designed and maintained, air is drawn in through return registers, heated or cooled by your HVAC equipment, and distributed evenly through supply ducts. Your home may feature either rigid or flexible ductwork, or a combination of both.
Rigid Air Ducts
Rigid ducts are assembled in sections that are joined together during installation. The two primary types of rigid ducts commonly used in home HVAC systems are:
Sheet Metal: Round or rectangular ducts made from galvanized steel or aluminum are the most durable and typically the costliest option. Their non-porous surfaces are easy to clean and are less likely to harbor biological contaminants. During installation, individual sections must be screwed together, and seams and joints should be sealed with mastic to prevent air leakage. Additionally, an insulation wrap is necessary to reduce energy losses through the bare metal.
Fiberboard: A more affordable alternative to sheet metal, fiberboard ducts are constructed from compressed fiberglass strands bonded with resin. The interior is sealed to prevent fiberglass fibers from entering the air supply, and a layer of foil laminate is applied externally as a moisture and air barrier.
Flexible Air Ducts
Flexible ducts consist of coiled wire surrounded by a two-ply plastic, with a layer of foil-faced insulation on the exterior. This cost-effective ducting is usually installed in continuous sections, cut to the desired length.
The flexibility of this type of ducting makes it ideal for tight spaces where rigid ducts may not fit. However, extra care is required during installation to avoid puncturing or tearing the lightweight material. Long runs of flexible ducts must be properly secured and supported to prevent kinking and sagging. Damaged or poorly installed flexible ducts can lead to air leakage or restrict vital system airflow.
Contact Us for More Information
For comprehensive information on HVAC topics or to discuss your ductwork options, contact AAA Furnace & Air Conditioning at (408) 293-4717.
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