Air Duct Systems for Zero Energy Homes
When the wind blows, temperatures fluctuate -- we know that is normal in nature, but we forget that we've domesticated air to blow through ducts. But we can significantly improve energy use if we put some thought to how our home ventilation is designed and insulated.
Ducts placed in conditioned space formed by a false ceiling can have a 10% influence on heating and cooling costs.
If it's not possible to create this conditioned space for your duct system, consider burying your ducts in deep ceiling insulation and seal the attic with roof deck insulation.
Ducts in unconditioned attic space can lose up to 1/3 of the energy used to condition the air inside the ducts.
Ductless heat pumps can also be an alternative.
Ducts should be well-sealed and tested; smooth round ducts are more efficient than flex ducts because they provide lower friction and thus, require lower fan power.
Ducts placed in conditioned space formed by a false ceiling can have a 10% influence on heating and cooling costs.
If it's not possible to create this conditioned space for your duct system, consider burying your ducts in deep ceiling insulation and seal the attic with roof deck insulation.
Ducts in unconditioned attic space can lose up to 1/3 of the energy used to condition the air inside the ducts.
Ductless heat pumps can also be an alternative.
Ducts should be well-sealed and tested; smooth round ducts are more efficient than flex ducts because they provide lower friction and thus, require lower fan power.
