Getting the duct system design right in your home is essential to get the best performance from your HVAC system. Energy loss estimates associated with poorly designed ductwork range from 10 percent in a good system, up to an eye watering 40 percent in lower grade units.
What Does the Ductwork Do?
The duct system distributes (or supplies) the air which has been heated or cooled by your HVAC system, and then returns it back to the unit.
If you are building a new home, then it’s the perfect time to get the duct system design right. Two key issues are where you position the ductwork, and effective sealing.
Location, Location, Location
Ideally, ensure that the duct system design focuses on the conditioned space in your home. Avoid locating ducts in unconditioned areas such as attics, crawl spaces and garages. Hide the ducts in dropped ceilings or corners of the rooms that you are heating and cooling. Then, even if leaks occur, the air returned to the HVAC unit is conditioned.
Sealing
Conditioned air escaping through leaky ducts is a major cause of inefficiency. Seal ducts with a suitable material like mastic sealant or metal tape; avoid using duct tape. Sealing ducts is a sensible step, whether you are building a new home or upping the efficiency of an existing building. Here are some other tips for improving duct efficiency:
- Clear blockages – make sure that registers aren’t obstructed by furniture. Also regularly vacuum registers to avoid a build p of dust. Check for other obstructions such as air filters, which can sometimes get sucked into the ducts. Also consider professional cleaning as required.
- Upgrade grilles – return air grilles may be performing inadequately. If so, it is pretty straightforward to replace these or even install a jumper duct. Supply grilles can also be upgraded to increase airflow into rooms.
Get expert advice by contacting us at Bill Joplin’s Air Conditioning & Heating. We have professionally served North Dallas and McKinney for 35 years and look forward to adding you to our list of satisfied customers.
