• Air Handling Basics
• Benefits of Using JM
• Products

Print

Know Your Duct Types

There are various types of duct systems available, all with differing performance. In general, insulated and sealed ducts perform much better in the areas most important to homeowners—thermal efficiency, noise reduction, reduced condensation and air quality.

The most consistently effective systems in every category are fiber glass duct board ducts. With Formaldehyde—free™ insulation and an acrylic coating to keep glass fibers from the airstream, they provide quiet comfort with outstanding air quality.

The most common, and least effective, are uninsulated rectangular or round sheet metal ducts. They are the least expensive to install but prone to noise, air leakage and condensation. Both shapes, however, can be wrapped with external insulation to improve performance. Rectangular sheet metal ducts can also be lined on the inside with insulation which greatly improves performance in every area.

Finally there are flexible spiral ducts, which rank poorly for thermal efficiency and condensation, but can be improved with external insulation.