We’ve had a look at the different compressors and condensers used for central air conditioning, but what about the ducts? Simply put, a duct is the channel that carries cooled air from the air conditioning unit through your home, and can also remove warm or stale air. Ducts for central air conditioning can also be used for heating and filtering systems. Let’s look at some of the different types of ducts needed for air conditioning.
Flexible Ductwork
Flexible ducts are typically tube-shaped, made of a wire coil covered with a bendable, durable plastic, and surrounded by insulation. This kind of ducting is best in tricky spaces where rigid ducts are just not possible to install, or used to attach non-flexible ductwork to an air supply outlet. Like most central air conditioning parts, flexible ducts have specific installation requirements. For example, flexible ductwork needs to be secured and supported properly, ensuring little sagging or snaking. Kinks, bends, and turns also need to be minimized – these reduce air flow and could hamper the efficiency and effectiveness of the air conditioner. The advantages of flexible ducts are that they are fairly quick and easy to install, and often cost less than rigid ductwork. You can find out more about flexible ducts and their installation guidelines from the American Society of Home Inspectors.
Rigid Ductwork
They come in a variety of materials and sizes, and can be either cylindrical or rectangular. They are also often insulated. They are hardy, enduring, and reliable. The most common types of rigid ductwork are:
When installing an air conditioning system, consult with your contractor to find out which type of duct is best for your home or office. More often than not, sheet metal is the safest and most effective material for creating ductwork.