Traditional heating and cooling units depend on ductwork to distribute airflow throughout a building or home. Ductwork is especially integral to an HVAC system because it plays a role in how air is drawn into the unit and pushed back out after it’s been heated or cooled. If a system’s intake or outtake of air is compromised, the system could fail. In these situations where the complete unit doesn’t have to be replaced, you are likely to have to replace duct or vent fittings in the ductwork. Before you begin a new ductwork project, find each part’s function and usability in our complete toolkit for duct and vent fittings.
The World of Duct Fittings
As ducts work to deliver and remove air in the HVAC system, different duct fittings are required to handle the job. Duct fittings equalize the duct pressure and balance airflow, making them extremely important in improving ductwork performance. Better performance means high-quality indoor air and comfort for inhabitants.
There are three main kinds of duct fittings: ells, tees, and reducers. Each has its own function. They may be used in combination with one another, depending on the ductwork design.
Ells
In the event you are working with a duct with a 90-degree turn, you'll most assuredly need an ell. They are built in 90-degree angles and should be fitted with turning vanes, small mechanisms that change the direction of airflow to minimize the impact of the air restriction caused by the turn. The vanes act as a guide for the air so that it can change direction more easily.
Tees
Trunk system ductwork is where you'll use a tee fitting. These parts are often used in conjunction with an ell. In these cases, it’s important to ensure the proper sizing of the trunkline between the two parts. Optimizing this part of the ductwork will greatly contribute to better performance of the system.
Reducers
In situations where you have a complex supply trunk with three or more branches, you'll need to use an HVAC reducer. To achieve balance in the duct pressure and airflow, precisely install your reducer at the points where duct size changes occur, improving the unit's efficiency.
Duct Fitting Materials and Specifications
Duct fittings are typically manufactured from galvanized steel, 16-gauge steel, or aluminum. Galvanized steel is the most common material and is considered the standard due to its durability. It's more durable because a zinc coating is used over the steel, preventing rusting. Aluminum, which is of a lighter weight than steel, is used less. It's typically used in round spiral duct applications.
Duct fittings are available in a variety of sizes for length and width. Since every HVAC system is unique, it’s a good idea to have a supply of all the most common duct fittings you use, ensuring you’re prepared for the job.
Vent Fittings and Caps Provide Ventilation
Another vital part of the HVAC system is a vent fitting or vent cap. Vent caps work to terminate a run, protecting the open end of a ductwork vent stack. This termination often occurs at the roof, so that’s the most common installation area. Depending on the size of the HVAC unit, there may be multiple vent caps.
What makes a vent cap so crucial to the HVAC system is the ventilation it offers. Without a vent cap, spaces will suffer from poor ventilation, which can cause a buildup of bacteria and dust. A roof vent cap can contain a built-in damper, which can further assist with ventilation efficiency.
Duct and Vent Fittings: Installation Tips
Whether you are installing new duct fittings or replacing old ones, there are several best practices you should consider.
- Make a plan for installing the ductwork before you start.
- Define the correct fitting material for the job.
- Check all fitting measurements either on-site or according to building plans.
- Use the correct kind of seaming tape and screws.
- Ensure you follow any compliance guidelines associated with ductwork.
- Take every effort to make sure ducting is airtight.
- Use the right fittings to better direct airflow and reduce friction.
You can find duct and vent fittings along with many other HVAC materials and equipment at Zoro. Shop our high-quality products today at competitive prices.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.