These organizations set ductwork, design, and hvac equipment standards: ACCA ASHRAE SMACNA

MORE DUCTWORK TRANSITIONS
Rectangular Side Take-offs and Vertical Ells

This page continues our discussion of ductwork transitions.

Every forced air duct system consists of many transitions, from rectangular to round, from trunk lines to branch lines, from the plenum to the main supply trunks, from the main return air trunk to the return air drop.

There are many different ductwork transitions which will accomplish the same basic function. But each carries with it a certain amount of restriction, which adds to the TEL (total equivalent duct length) of the duct system.

Airflow is similar to water in that air will flow best where there is least restriction.

The best ductwork transitions minimize restriction and help to balance airflow.

• Example 1 is a very bad flowing side branch. This configuration will allow air to flow past with little pressurizing the side branch. Any supply runs down the line on the main trunk will deliver a considerable amount more cfm to the registers than any supply runs tied into the pictured side branch.
• Example 2 will allow increased air flow down the side branch. The airflow of both examples 1 and 2 can be improved by installing a reducer in the main trunk just past the side branch.
• Example 3 splits and diverts the airflow equally down both trunks. If more air is required down the side trunk, the cheek of the ductwork fitting is repositioned to grab more air. And vice-versa.

• Vertical ells are usually found in a multi-level residence where a single AH/furnace duct system feeds multiple levels. This transition would feed a trunk going up a chase to the next level.
• Example 1 would add 80' to the system TEL.
• Example 2 would add about 35' to the system TEL, and example 3 adds 25' to the system TEL.
• If a single AH/furnace is to serve more than 1 level, a zone system should be seriously considered. Different levels of a residence have different cooling and heating requirements. A zone system with separate thermostatic control per level will improve comfort level between floors.

Residential Duct Drawings by Geoffrey R. Stoddard, Detroit, Mich.

Hvac for Beginners: Typical Trunk and Branch Duct Systems

Plenums and Return Air Drops

Rectangular Ells, Tees, and Reducers

Multiple Fittings in a Duct System

Basic How-To Ductwork Installation

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