How to Pick Duct Materials That’ll Be Effective This Winter

If you want to make your HVAC system more efficient, start with your ductwork. Air can lose heat as it travels from your furnace to your home. Here are the most efficient duct materials to prevent heat loss and improve efficiency this winter.

• Sheet metal. Sheet metal is great for durability. It’s strong, not prone to damage, and it’s coated in zinc so it won’t corrode. It’s not as good for efficiency on its own. Since metal absorbs heat, it causes air running through it to lose energy the farther it travels. This is why metal ducts use duct wrap. A layer of insulation coats the duct, keeping the heat in until it reaches your home.
• Fiberboard. While fiberboard ducts are rigid, they do have a bit of give. This means they’re strong and durable but can also be customized to fit more difficult spaces than sheet metal. Lined with fiberglass insulation, fiberboard ducts have a low thermal resistance, making them great for heating efficiency in winter temperatures. However, they can also be prone to mold growth, so clean them regularly.
• Flexible ducts. If you have spaces that rigid duct materials won’t easily fit, try flexible ductwork, made from plastic and wire. It can mold to fit any space, and when properly insulated, they’ll retain heat as well as the rigid ducts. The drawback, however, is that while it’s great for temperature efficiency, it’s not as good with airflow. Flexible ducts aren’t as durable as rigid ones and are more prone to leaks and other damage. Additionally, the more you stretch them, the less efficient they become.
• PVC. This is the material of choice if you have a heat-recovery ventilation system. Heat recovery uses the already heated, outgoing air to start heating the cold, incoming air, thus saving energy. PVC is great for this purpose, as it retains heat well. It’s also sturdy and not prone to leaks.

In order to ensure the most efficient and effective duct materials for your home, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. We keep Lorain, Elyria, and Oberlin homes efficient and comfortable throughout the year, whether it comes to duct materials or any other HVAC need.