Mitsubishi Split Air Conditioners in Billings – What is an Air Conditioning Duct?

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.

Split Central Air Conditioners in Billings – Air Conditioning Duct.

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.

Split Air Conditioners in Billings – Metal Ducts.

When metal duct is used, it is often insulated to help reduce noise and minimize condensation. Insulation can also help keep the ducts from absorbing air in the home, which leads to uneven temperature levels and wasted energy. Many metal ducts come with built-in insulation along the inside walls. 

Mini Split Air Conditioners in Billings – Air Conditioning Ducts.

Air conditioning ducts without integral lining are often wrapped with fiberglass or similar types of insulation. This added duct wrap can be problematic for installation in tight spaces, however, as it can increase the size of the duct by several inches on each side.