Ductwork plays an integral role in your HVAC system. When poorly laid out and maintained, it won’t provide optimal airflow and climate control in your home. If you’re having a new system installed, there are important aspects of design to inspect. Ensuring HVAC contractors handle each of these will create the best possible duct design for your home comfort.

Ways Ductwork Impacts HVAC Efficiency

1. Optimal Air Routing

The more that cool air has to wind through its journey, the harder your HVAC system will have to work. Your ventilation system needs to be laid out strategically. Ductwork should be routed in straight lines wherever possible and have few intersections. This ensures air has a direct route to travel. It also needs to be installed inside the insulation barrier so outside temperatures don’t heat it up and affect cooling. It can also be located in dropped ceilings or raised floors.

2. Cool Air Containment

Without a tight seal, cool air will leak out and your system will have to work harder to achieve the programmed temperatures. There needs to be a tight seal at each seam of the ductwork, and it should be carefully inspected for perforations. Heat-resistant tape will create a strong hold, and it’s wise to use sheet metal or fiberglass materials for the best insulation.

3. Equal Supply & Return

Each room with an exit duct will need a return grille of equal size. This creates an even balance between air supply and return, and it will also minimize air filtration. Smaller supply ducts will be noisy; small return ducts will create pressure drops. Install transfer grilles or jumper ducts in roofs with closed doors so that return airflow isn’t obstructed.

For the best ductwork design and installation, always work with the pros. Parker’s Heating & Cooling, Inc. of Cairo, GA, brings over 25 years of experience to its customers. Their team of North American Technician Excellence®-certified technicians handles everything from heat pump and AC repairs to heating and cooling installations and general maintenance. They provide 24-hour emergency service, which you can schedule by calling (229) 377-9129. Explore their services further online.