Understanding the Six Different Types of Air Ducts

Does your ductwork need extra care? Call Bates Air & Heat for professional duct cleaning and repair service!

Your central heating or cooling system relies on your home's ductwork to transfer climate-controlled air to every room. Although duct systems are mostly hidden from view, the size, shape, and material of your air ducts play an important role in how your HVAC system functions. This guide reveals the six main types of air ducts, their primary features, and how they impact your HVAC system's performance.

Regardless of which type of duct system your home uses, it's crucial to keep them free of dust and allergens. Bates Heat & Air provides reliable air duct cleaning in Vero Beach, FL, as well as a number of other services that keep your air ducts in excellent condition. 



1. Flexible Ductwork

As the name implies, flexible ductwork is ideal for anyone with limited space in their home or who needs air ducts in hard-to-reach places. This type of air duct features flexible plastic encasing a metal wire coil. Often, this duct includes thermal insulation with materials like glass wool or polyethylene. 

Count on a qualified contractor like Bates Heat & Air to install your flexible ductwork. Improper installation may cause the ducts to loosen or sag, which impacts your home's airflow and requires repairs. 

2. Rigid Ductwork

You'll have reliability when you install rigid ductwork. This option is available in various materials, shapes, and sizes, allowing you to customize your ductwork to your needs. Depending on your property layout and budget, you can install rigid ductwork that features either sheet metal, fiberglass-lined, or fiberboard ducts. 

The installation process is more extensive than for flexible ductwork and requires more careful planning among skilled technicians. The final result is a lightweight yet strong duct system that will not bend or sag over time. 

3. Semi-Rigid Ductwork

Of all types of air ducts, semi-rigid ductwork is the best when it comes to ventilation. These systems will not leak air when technicians install them properly, so you can achieve maximum HVAC efficiency. 

These duct systems offer many of the same benefits as rigid ductwork, though the installation process is usually quicker. You'll enjoy a highly efficient system that features either a round or oval shape. 

4. Sheet Metal Ducts

Manufacturers use a variety of metals when making this air duct. The most common materials in sheet metal ducts are aluminum or galvanized steel. However, experts prefer aluminum because it's lightweight and therefore easier to install. 

You'll enjoy plenty of benefits by having sheet metal ducts throughout your home. The main advantage of installing sheet metal ducts is how they improve your indoor air quality. Both aluminum and galvanized steel are non-porous, which reduces your risk of harmful mold and bacteria growth in your ducts.

Mold, mildew, and other dangerous bacteria thrive in damp environments. Condensation from your HVAC system makes certain types of air ducts the perfect place to grow mold spores. Fortunately, sheet metal ducts do not absorb moisture, which prevents mold growth. 

5. Fiberglass-Lined Ducts

Fiberglass-lined ducts have a structure similar to sheet metal ducts, though they use different materials. The main feature of this system is the fiberglass that lines both the internal and external structures of the duct. Many commercial business owners prefer this to other types of air ducts because the fiberglass lining tends to absorb the noises from the air conditioner. 

However, this duct system comes with a few drawbacks. Fiberglass is porous, and if moisture seeps into the material, it can sprout mold or mildew. In addition, the ducts can release small fiberglass particles into the air, which can cause asthma and other health conditions after long-term exposure. 

6. Fiberboard Ducts

The final option available for homeowners is fiberboard air ducts. This material comes from compressing fiberglass and bonding it with resin before laminating it with a foil sheet. HVAC systems that use this type of duct tend to be more efficient because the fiberboard insulates the duct to keep cool air in during the summer and warm air in during the winter.

However, the threat of mold growth remains with this material. Since fiberboard derives from fiberglass, the material is porous and can cause health issues if moisture collects within the duct. 

What Is the Best Type of Air Duct?

Each type of air duct has its own advantages, but rigid and semi-rigid ductwork tend to be the most durable and efficient. As far as materials go, experts agree that sheet metal ducts are superior. Aluminum or galvanized steel ducts eliminate the risk of mold due to their non-porous surface and are easier to clean than other types of air ducts.

If you are curious about upgrading your duct system to reap the most advantages, reach out to the helpful technicians at Bates Heat & Air. 

Best Way to Maintain Your Air Ducts

All these types of air ducts require proper maintenance. Failing to maintain your ductwork can lead to a build-up of dust and dirt particles, which can significantly reduce your indoor air quality as your HVAC system pushes contaminated air through your vents. 

If your home has leaky ductwork, your climate-controlled air is likely to escape through your ducts instead of traveling into your vents. This ultimately leaves you with an uncomfortable indoor temperature and forces your HVAC system to work overtime, leading to higher energy costs. 

The best way to uphold the quality of your air ducts is to schedule regular cleanings from a licensed HVAC contractor. Bates Heat & Air provides professional duct cleaning services so you can breathe cleaner, safer air. During a routine cleaning, technicians can also spot any cracks or damage to your ducts.

Let HVAC Experts Inspect Your Ductwork

Whether you want to know how often to clean your air ducts or want a professional technician to inspect them for damage, contact the HVAC experts at Bates Air & Heat. We work with all types of air ducts and can get your system working efficiently. Call (772) 519-0301 to speak with a specialist and schedule a consultation.