Different Options for Ductwork and Their Advantages
Installing or upgrading a heating and cooling system in the home can be an expensive process. While most homeowners are busy stressing about the price of the air conditioner itself, few stop to think about the ductwork that constitutes about half of the installation cost between materials and labor.
Learning about ductwork is important for homeowners to stay educated about their options. Too often, dishonest AC technicians will try and install ductwork that is easier to install instead of the best option for the home. Here is a quick guide to ductwork that can make it easy to understand what a home needs to stay cool.
What Is the Purpose of Different Types of Ductwork
- The longevity of the materials
- Cost
- Ease of installation
- Wasted BTUs (British Thermal Units) from internal resistance
- System layout
To accommodate all of these factors, AC professionals have several materials to choose from that they can piece together to make an efficient and long-lasting system.
Common Air Duct Types
- Sheet Metal Air Ducts: Sheet metal is the most common choice for smaller ductwork. While it is expensive, it will last almost indefinitely. Always choose this material with good insulation for smaller ductwork.
- Fiberglass Lined Air Ducts: These are more common in commercial settings with exposed ductwork. Because of health risks, one should avoid them.
- Fiberboard Air Ducts: These are common for plenums and trunk lines installed in attics upstream of smaller ducts that serve individual rooms.
- Flexible Air Ducts: Sometimes installed in tight attics, this material is easy to install and cheaper than other options. The disadvantages of this type are a short lifespan and high air turbulence, which reduces total system efficiency.
Choosing the Best Air Duct Material
When planning AC installations or a ducting project, homeowners should work with a trusted HVAC contractor. Choosing the best duct material isn’t a question of picking one type for an entire project. The HVAC professional can help design an AC system that is safe and efficient as well as cost-effective upfront.
When designing a system, they will likely use a combination of fiberboard and sheet metal air ducts. These choices are the safest and most efficient because they can be insulated and naturally resistant to mold and bacteria growth. Additionally, these ducts hold up well to air duct cleaning, a process recommended every three to five years to keep homes clean of dust and ductwork distributing air effectively.
About Barker Heating & Cooling
Don’t like surprises? Barker Heating & Cooling offers upfront pricing on all AC installation and ductwork projects. Call today for on-time AC service in Livermore, CA & the Tri-Valley.
