When investing in a quality HVAC system, it’s tempting to focus on finding the best heating and air-conditioning equipment for your home. However, HVAC systems are only as effective as their ductwork allows them to be. To keep your home efficiently heated and cooled — and cut down on energy bills — it helps to understand a bit about the different kinds of ductwork you can incorporate into your HVAC system.

Basic Information About Types of HVAC Ductwork

Rigid Ductwork

Rigid ducts are generally used in larger homes with bigger heating and cooling systems, especially when any part of the ductwork needs to be exposed. They can be constructed from several types of materials, including thin sheet metal, fiberglass, and fiberboard. These strong materials are resistant to some of the issues that affect flexible ductwork (explained below), including collapse and damage from pests. This durability helps them last for decades before they need to be replaced.

Flexible Ductwork

Flexible ductwork is made of plastic tubes reinforced with wire and insulated to preserve energy. This system is ideal for structures that are tight on space and need to fit duct in cramped spots that won’t accommodate rigid ductwork. Because the plastic can bend without the installation of as many joints, they allow for fewer air leaks and increased airflow efficiency, saving homeowners money on their heating and cooling bill.

Ductwork Maintenance

Hiring a skilled professional to install your ductwork will cut down on the number of issues you have with it, but even a well-installed system will need a little maintenance work over time. For instance, insulation may start to come loose throughout the years, decreasing energy efficiency. The movement of air through flexible ducts may gradually cause damage to their seams and joints, which will need to be repaired to prevent leaks. If you notice that your energy bill has grown noticeably higher, it’s worth hiring an expert to check your ductwork and see if there’s an issue.

If you need a professional to examine your ductwork, contact the HVAC experts at Sunshine Air Conditioning & Heating in Northern Westchester County, New York. They have over 19 years of experience in helping homeowners with everything from furnace installation and repairs to boiler repairs. Learn more today by visiting them online or calling (914) 245-2050.