Important Elements Of Air Duct Installation

Installing air ducts in your home is an extensive process, especially if you're dealing with a multi-story property or one with a lot of square footage. When you talk with your installation contractor, there are a few key elements that you should discuss before finalizing the installation plan. Unfortunately, most homeowners have never dealt with this process, so they don't know what to consider. Here are some of the things that you should talk about in advance.

The Shortest Distance Between Two Points

As you map out the placement of the air ducts, make sure that your installation contractor is choosing the shortest possible path to each destination. The shorter the path, the less distance the air has to travel. That means less of an opportunity for heat or cooling loss along the way. 

Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind

The installation path for your air ducts should keep the ductwork behind the walls and ceilings, not exposed. When your ductwork is exposed, there's less of an insulating benefit to help keep the air traveling through it at a consistent temperature. You'll face temperature loss along the way simply due to exposure, especially in poorly-insulated areas of the house.

A Little Extra Insulation Never Hurt

Your air ducts should have an insulating wrap applied around the outside of them. The extra insulation keeps the air temperature more consistent, which will save you money on your climate control costs. Not only that, but the added insulation also forms an additional protective layer around the outside of the ductwork, reducing the risk of separation at the duct seams or any potential damage that could cause air duct leaks.

Size Really Does Matter

The right air duct system for your home requires careful calculations of the airflow needs based on structure, insulation, and distance from the furnace. Your installation contractor will need to evaluate your home to ensure proper air duct sizing. If the ducts are too small, air won't flow efficiently through the system. If they are too large, you'll face too little velocity for proper air distribution. 

Talk with an air duct contractor about these factors as you plan out your air duct installation. These elements directly affect the quality of your ductwork's airflow and durability. The better prepared you are going into the process, the easier it is for you to get the air ducts you need and maintain your home's comfort levels.

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