When it comes to your home’s heating and cooling system, the ductwork is one of the most important components.
Air ducts are often “out of sight, out of mind.” However, they are integral for circulating conditioned air throughout your home from your central heating or cooling unit. They also filter out dust, debris, and other airborne pollutants to help maintain healthy indoor air quality.
There are two main types of ductwork: flexible and metal. In this blog post, we discuss the key differences between these two types of air ducts. This may help you make a more informed decision when upgrading your HVAC system in the future. Let’s dive in!
Metal vs. Flexible Air Ducts
Metal Ductwork
Many people who think of the word “ductwork” likely envision it in metal form. Metal ductwork is the most popular option when it comes to residential heating and cooling systems. Because it’s made of galvanized steel, aluminum, or other metals, this type of ductwork is extremely durable. With proper maintenance, metal ductwork can last 25 years or longer.
Metal ducts also provide superior air flow, due to their smooth interior walls that reduce turbulence and air resistance. This promotes energy-efficiency of your overall HVAC system, especially if the ducts are regularly cleaned and professionally sealed.
Flexible Ductwork
Flexible ducts are an increasingly popular option due to their simple installation process and lower cost compared to metal ducts. They are created with materials like fiberglass, vinyl, or reinforced fabric, making them lightweight yet durable enough for most residential applications. Additionally, flexible ducts come in different sizes, allowing them to fit into tight spaces or around corners in homes with nontraditional layouts.
Which Should You Choose?
The right type of ductwork will depend on your budget, the size of your home, and your heating and cooling needs. However, installing either type of ductwork requires HVAC professionals like our team at Bears Home Solutions. Before we bring out the tools, we’ll inspect your current home (or your plans for a future home) to determine which air ducts will best suit your needs. We’ll also provide a free estimate and discuss your financing options, so you know what to expect.
Optimizing Your Ductwork
Whether you choose flexible or metal ductwork for your home, installation is only the beginning. To maximize the efficiency of your ductwork, a professional service technician will need to inspect your equipment at least once a year.
Aeroseal is another great way to optimize performance of your air ducts. This powerful technology allows us to seal ductwork from the inside, reducing air leakage by up to 90%. Other benefits of sealing your ducts include lower energy bills, better airflow, and healthier indoor air quality.
To learn more about our installation, maintenance, or other services, contact our team today!
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