Getting your home to stay at a regular temperature; that you can enjoy, can be a challenge. After a while, you can only take so much of being uncomfortable in your own home. There is a solution. And we’re here to help. Try the art of installing ductwork. Ductwork can be the relief that you and your family are looking for. It will allow your home’s air to flow smoother and easier; creating a comfortable environment. Now, when it comes to how to install ductwork; well that’s all your choice. You can either hire a HVAC professional, or you could step up and do it yourself. Personally I think you should make a call to hire a professional from Air National. But if you’re ready to get your hands dirty, you should know; you’re in for a tricky job.

You are going to have to do some calculations throughout your home. These will allow you to know how much of the materials you will need and how to construct your diagram for your transformation.

Step 1: The very first step in your venture is the most important. Without this you won’t be able to determine where the ductwork should go our how much of the supplies you will need. Heat Load Calculation is going to be your best friend. This will help you know the heat gains and loss’s of each room in your house. By knowing this you can know where the ductwork should go throughout the home. There are many sites on the web that explain heat load calculating, but they are all complex.

Step 2: You should construct a model of the ductwork for your home. You will need do some very detailed planning for this extreme project. your model needs to include what rooms you will be installing in and precisely where. Also, you need to keep note of where your air return ducts should be placed. Keep your findings very accurate and in order.

Step 3: Now that you have all of your findings; it is time for you to gather all of your

registers, plenum ducts, flex ducts, return grills, sheet metal tees and colars. You will also need, plastic and metal clamps along with their fasteners also, metal straps/hangers so you can attach ductwork to the basement or attic ceiling. And just a few more simple things; pliers, gorilla tape, size 8 sheet metal screws, variety of screwdrivers, wire cutters, scissors, hammer and nails, tape measure, goggles, helmet, work gloves

Step 4: Now it is time to begin renovation. You will need to start by cutting out holes and building up a frame. Every room, that a vent is going to be placed will need to have holes cut. HVAC units are going to need two holes, one for the returning air and the other so air can be let into the desired room. Doing so will allow air to flow properly. You will then need to start building your framework for the ductwork. This will keep the ductwork next, fasten hangers to the studs of the attic. Framework is complete.

Step 5: The ducts need to be sized and cut accordingly. As you pile up your sections of ducts you need to keep them close by for easy handling. At this time, also cut holes into plenum so air may pass.

Step 6: Now attach plenum ducts to your HVAC System. Two will be attached one for returning air and the other for exhaust. Then, lay out the ducts into receiving collars of the system; make sure they’re tight. Make certain that the metal tabs are flat against the duct unit; while using the ducts pins and screws to make everything fully secure.

Step 7: The ducts will now be attached. Start with the supply and attach ducts to plenum ducts. Keep everything at least 5 ft apart. Also each duct attachment needs to be supported by their hangers.

Step 8: The return box will now be installed. Using the air intake box and plenum attach them the same way you would in step 7. The cover all the holes with the corresponding registers.

Step 9: Now that everything is complete you need to do a run through, you need to be sure that there arent any major leaks and that circulation is at its prime. Leaks can be sealed with mastic which is a gooy sealant that prevents your system from heating and cooling your attic.

Nothing is ever simple in doing ductwork. A better idea is to call Air National Texas (281) 251-3143 and have it done professionally.