Is Flex Duct Better Than Hard Duct?

Flexible ducting is often compared against hard ducting. They both provide the same function, but do so in different ways. But which option is superior? Is there an option you can use in any instance?

In this blog, we will answer the question ‘Is flex duct better than hard duct?’

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.

Hard ducts and flex ducts

Ducting has a specific purpose, regardless of the type of duct it is. Its job is to essentially be a container for air or gaseous chemicals to travel through, from one area to another, with no interruption from whatever is outside the ducting.

This can facilitate purposes such as extraction, and the delivery of fresh, or treated air. Ducting is useable in any environment that requires mechanical ventilation, whether this be in your home, office, or an industrial site.

Hard ducting, as the name suggests, is a solid pipe, either flat or rounded, that is fixed into position to allow for the travel of air. It is characterised by the fact they are rigid. They can be used in industrial and domestic/office environments.

Flexible ducting is characterised by the fact that it is flexible, this means it can be manipulated into places that hard ducting can’t. This option is particularly suited to smaller spaces, but has the potential to be used in some industrial environments.

Hard and flexible ducting is available in different materials, but the usual options you can find are PVC or aluminium.

Are water pipes the same as ducts?

Generally, no. Although they are similar in shape, and in function, they both carry different components. One is made for water/moisture, whilst the other is made for gasses. Indeed, they may be two sides of the same coin, but the components that make them may vary in order to accommodate for what it is transporting along its structure.

Can you use normal pipes for ducting?

No. You must use the appropriate ducting for any ventilation. As mentioned before, pipes not made for ducting are likely going to have properties that reduce the functionality, or could even damage the ventilation process.

Is flex duct better than hard duct?