Ductwork design is crucial to maintaining optimal airflow in your home, and to maximizing the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Improperly-installed ductwork can sabotage even the best HVAC system, decreasing home comfort and energy efficiency, and causing your energy bills to rise significantly.
To avoid mistakes in your ductwork design, follow these five tips and make sure your technician gets it right the first time:
- Proper sealing prevents leakage. State that all joints in the air distribution system be secured and airtight before they are installed to prevent leaks. Fiberglass mesh and mastic are often used. Ask the technician to test the ducts using a duct blower. This will ensure the system is airtight and leak free.
- Opt for additional insulation. Stipulate higher than code insulation levels in ducts located outside conditioned spaces to decrease the loss of cool air in summer and warm air in winter.
- Install ducts in interior spaces. Do not locate ducts in exterior walls, as this can lead to thermal airflow loss. Opt for interior installation whenever possible.
- Keep ducts away from exhaust vents. Supply outlets should be placed away from vents in kitchens and bathrooms to prevent conditioned air from being sucked away.
- Keep duct runs short. Ductwork placed near interior walls allows for shorter duct runs with fewer joints; This reduces the potential for loss of airflow.
Our experts at Around the Clock Air Conditioning and Heating are happy to answer your questions about ductwork design and installation. Contact us today about keeping your home fresh and comfortable.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about duct design and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Around the Clock Air Conditioning & Heating services Los Angeles, North Hollywood and the surrounding areas in California. Visit our website to see our current specials and get started today!