Does Flex Duct Need Insulation?

Flex ducts, otherwise known as flexible ducting, can provide a massive benefit for anyone in need of ventilation systems in their home, but have little space. Despite their convenience, flexible ducting does require a certain level of care depending on its environment.

In this blog, we will answer the question ‘Does flex duct need insulation?’

With new buildings being made to be as energy efficient as possible, and the UK aiming for 95% of its electricity usage to be low carbon by 2030, it is imperative to understand how we can make the most of our ventilation. This is where MVHR units come in.

To prevent mould, fresh air should constantly be introduced into your dwelling daily, as it helps to regulate temperature and reduce condensation. Introducing fresh air can be as simple as having a ventilation routine, or installing extractors or MVHR units. Almost all of this is facilitated by ducting.

I-Sells is here to provide the answers you need whilst also supplying you with all the information you need to combat mould and have a well-ventilated home.

Flex ducts — The basics

Flex ducts, generally called flexible ducting, is a type of conduit that allows air to travel through it. Some people can refer to ducting, in general, as an air vent. Ducting is mainly available in two forms, hard and flexible ducting.

Hard ducting is a solid vent, it can not be moved after installation, other than if it is being disassembled. It is usually seen in homes with larger spaces, and within industrial grade ventilation.

Flexible ducting, as the name suggests, is a more manoeuvrable option for ducting. It is more suited for smaller spaces, and can typically be used in any kind of setting. Both of these options are made with either plastic or metal.

The purpose of ducting, whether it is hard or flexible, is to serve as a conduit for air, or gaseous chemicals, to travel through. When it comes to air, ducting provides a channel for extracted air to escape, or for fresh air to be delivered to.

Gaseous chemicals are generally found in industrial sites. They are often a by-product of chemical reactions during manufacturing, etc. The extraction of that gas is to maintain the safety of those on site, as well as not compromising any equipment.

What is the best way to install flex ducts?

Flex ducts are made to bend, they are specifically for more smaller spaces that can’t allow for the insulation of hard ducting. That being said, flex ducting should be as straight as possible upon installation. Try to limit the amount the ducting bends as much as possible.

This is simply because air travels more efficiently in a straight line, so if your flexible ducting is installed with multiple bends, it will compromise the efficiency of the airflow.

Does flex duct need insulation?