Air Conditioning Ducts: Improving Performance and Promoting Efficiency
If the ducts in your commercial building have deteriorated, you should plan on replacing them immediately. Keep in mind that faulty ducts will cause air conditioner strain and, subsequently, accelerated wear. Moreover, the level of internal climate control achieved with damaged ductwork is low. When preparing for duct replacement, you must prioritise energy efficiency and consistent performance. The ducts must prevent heat exchange, and the airflow should be smooth for optimal comfort. Here are some important tips to remember when replacing air conditioning ducts.
Design Custom Ducts
The design of the ductwork will determine the efficiency of the channels in promoting quality airflow. Therefore, you should consider designing custom ducts for your building. Simply speaking, the specific needs of a building will depend on factors like building size, type of air conditioner and internal configuration. If you use general ducts, it will be difficult to achieve the best performance. Custom design of ductwork will ensure that the needs of your building are perfectly matched. You can use unique duct size, runs and shapes, depending on your climate control requirements.
Plan for Fabrication
The quality of fabrication is also critical in determining the performance of air conditioning ducts. Poor manufacturing could leave the channels vulnerable to high heat exchange, air losses and accelerated damage. Therefore, you should plan for quality manufacturing. Choose a fabricator with experience in custom ductwork manufacturing. You should also discuss the material options for the products. Opt for tough materials for prolonged service. Additionally, discuss the options for future repairs because you cannot guarantee that the ducts will not become damaged.
Install with Caution
Once your ducts are fabricated, you should establish a good timeline for installation. Under normal circumstances, the ducts should be installed right away to avoid damage due to prolonged storage. The installation work must be conducted by qualified HVAC contractors to avoid accidental compromise of the fabricated features. Moreover, if the ducts are not placed into the building correctly, the risk of increased energy inefficiency will be high. Keep in mind that ductwork setup requires numerous fittings and supporting structures. Purchase quality materials for a stable network.
Insulate the Ducts
Finally, you should plan for ductwork insulation. The insulation should be installed once the channels are sealed to prevent air leaks. When choosing an insulation material, consult your HVAC contractor. Different insulating products have varying performance in preventing heat gain and loss. Use the recommended material for your building and the local environment. For the best outcome, ensure the ducts are tested before use.
Contact an air conditioning duct service for more information.
