Air ducts are an integral part of HVAC systems. Their quality and type determine how well the system works, how much energy it uses and the air quality inside your home. You can maximize the performance and lifespan of your HVAC system by understanding the variations between different duct types and selecting the most suitable option for your unique needs.
Sheet Metal Ducts
Many homes and businesses still use the tried-and-true sheet metal ducts for their air ducting needs. These ducts, usually constructed from galvanized steel or aluminum, are well-known for their longevity and resilience. The purpose of sheet metal ducts is to provide a sturdy channel for conditioned air to circulate within the structure. They are less likely to collect dust and debris since their smooth inside surfaces reduce air resistance and maximize airflow. The fire resistance of sheet metal ducts is a major selling point that makes them a more secure choice for a lot of structures. Sheet metal ducts have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, sometimes more, with good installation and maintenance.
Flexible Ducts
The construction of flexible ducts, often called flex ducts, involves wrapping a wire coil with insulating and pliable plastic. Because of their adaptability and pliability, these ducts are perfect for guiding air through narrow openings or around architectural features. When installing rigid ducts would be a hassle, especially in retrofit situations, flexible ducts are the way to go. Easy installation, low cost and reduced HVAC noise transfer are the primary advantages of flexible ducts. Additionally, they are pre-insulated, which is a great way to save money on utility bills. In comparison to sheet metal ducts, the expected lifespan of flexible ducts usually hovers around 10 to 15 years.
Fiberglass Duct Board
Fiberglass duct board is a rigid kind of ductwork made from compressed fiberglass insulation and coated with resin. Coating the inside surface with the protective resin stops fiberglass particles from getting into the airflow. Fiberglass duct board offers the advantage of custom fabrication to meet specific space needs. Another benefit is that it is lightweight, making installation easier. It helps keep the air temperature uniform throughout the system and has high thermal performance as well. When installed and cared for correctly, fiberglass duct board has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.
PVC Ducts
An increasingly common kind of plastic ducting is PVC (polyvinyl chloride) ducts, which are ideal for places where moisture resistance is of the utmost importance. The primary advantages of PVC ducts are their low weight, ease of installation and remarkable resistance to chemicals and corrosion. With the right care and installation, PVC ducts can last for 20 to 30 years or even longer.
Aluminum Ducts
Compared to the heavier galvanized steel ducts, aluminum ducts are far more portable. They provide a straight route for air to circulate inside a structure. In coastal settings, where salt air may rapidly erode other metals, aluminum ducts’ resistance to corrosion is an important advantage. Another benefit is their light weight, which helps facilitate installation and minimizes structural strain. Aluminum ducts, if set up and cared for correctly, can last for 20 to 30 years or longer.
Fabric Ducts
Fabric air dispersion systems, also known as textile ducts or simply fabric ducts, are a more modern take on the traditional air distribution system. These ducts eliminate drafts by distributing air evenly along their length through porous or perforated textiles. Gyms, warehouses and retail spaces typically use fabric ducts because of the importance of aesthetics in these open areas. Fabric ducts are advantageous because they are lightweight and simple to install, plus they evenly distribute air. They are also highly adaptable in terms of shape and color, allowing for endless possibilities for interior design integration. And due to their removable and washable nature, fabric ducts are a breeze to clean. These ducts usually have a lifespan of 10 to 20 years, though this might vary with the material and the surrounding climate.
Composite Ducts
Composite ducts typically include multiple layers of materials, such as polyester, metalized polyester film and aluminum foil. These ducts combine the advantages of both flexible and rigid ducts into one convenient package, including an adaptable and durable insulated air path. Also, they are typically more resilient to rips and punctures than regular flexible ducts. Composite ducts, when installed and maintained correctly, have a longer expected lifespan than regular flexible ducts, usually between 15 and 25 years.
Insulated Ducts
Sheet metal, flexible ducts and fiberglass duct board are just a few examples of duct materials that experts can cover with an insulation layer to create insulated ducts. These ducts distribute the air as it flows through the system, reducing heat loss or gain. Because insulated ducts aid in maintaining the temperature of conditioned air as it travels across unconditioned places like crawl spaces or attics, they primarily improve energy efficiency. As a result, you may find that your HVAC system uses much less energy and works better overall. Insulated ducts also aid in avoiding condensation, an issue that can arise in damp areas with uninsulated ducts. Depending on the base material and insulation grade, insulated ducts have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years or longer with proper installation and maintenance.
Spiral Ducts
Compared to more conventional rectangular ducts, spiral ducts have a number of benefits because they provide a rigid, circular route for air circulation. They are airtight, which decreases air loss and increases system efficiency. Plus, spiral ducts are more robust and sturdy than rectangular ones, which means you can use thinner metal without compromising structural integrity. This not only makes installation easier but can also reduce construction material costs. And because of their spherical design, spiral ducts usually have less air resistance, so more air can flow through the system with less effort. This can help you save money on HVAC-related expenses. When erected and maintained correctly, spiral ducts have an impressive lifespan of 25 to 30 years or beyond.
How to Choose the Best Air Ducts for Your Home
Before installing ductwork, you need to assess the layout of your property and the space that is available. You can use this information to figure out if rigid ducts are better suited for tight locations, or if flexible ducts are necessary. It’s also wise to think about your local climate because insulated ducts can help homes in areas with high humidity or extremely hot temperatures save energy. Some duct types may cost more initially, but they may save you money in the long run due to their enhanced efficiency or durability, so your budget is another important consideration. You should also think about your HVAC system’s airflow requirements and any other unique concerns, such as noise reduction. Last but not least, think about how your city’s ducting requirements could affect your selection. To make sure you have a system that will work efficiently and last a long time for your house, it’s a good idea to consult with a competent HVAC expert.
If you have questions about air ducts, Environmental Heating & Air Solutions has the answers. We also help homeowners in Benicia, CA with water heater installations, water leak protection, HVAC maintenance, blower door testing, HVAC zoning systems and more.
To schedule an air duct consultation for your home, call us at Environmental Heating & Air Solutions today.
