Electric Heating Cooling Systems – Central Heating.

An air conditioning duct is a type of pipe or tunnel that is used to distribute air throughout a structure. Systems of ducts, known as ductwork, are a central component of a building's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. In most systems, only one set of ductwork is present, which is used to transport cool air in the summer and heated air in the winter, along with as air required for general ventilation needs. Air conditioning duct is used only with central air units, and is not required for homes that rely on split systems or ductless air conditioning.

Geothermal Heating Cooling Systems – Duct function.

To understand the function of air conditioning duct, one must first understand how a central air system works. First, a system of intake grilles or louvers pulls fresh air from outside into the central air unit. The air is cooled, then blown into an air conditioning duct system, where it is distributed to various rooms. The cool air enters the rooms through air terminal units installed at the end of each duct line, which generally take the form of diffusers or grilles. This network of ducts that transport cool air from the unit to each room is called the supply ductwork.

Heating Cooling Systems – Size, Shape, and Material.

Air conditioning duct is selected based on its size, shape, and material. The size of a duct is based on air pressure in the home, the type of HVAC equipment being used, and the cooling needs of occupants. Round ducts are considered to be the most efficient, allowing a greater volume of air movement per unit of duct, but despite this they are rarely used. Instead, builders rely on square or rectangular ducts, which fit more easily into tight ceiling and wall cavities. Spiral duct, which resembles corrugated pipe, is the least efficient shape of the three, but is often chosen for its appearance when the duct will be left exposed.

Solar Heating Cooling Systems – Stainless Steel.

There are three basic materials used to manufacture air conditioning duct. Galvanized steel has historically been the most widely used due to its strength and resistance to rust and corrosion. Though it is still the material of choice, steel is associated with high levels of air leakage, which can leave a system unbalanced. Flexible ducts made from plastic-coated wire frames are commonly used on short runs or at transition points in order to reduce pressure losses. Fabric ducts are growing increasingly popular due to their quick installation, even air distribution, and pleasing appearance.