Exploring 7 Links Between Air Ducts and Allergies

The primary function of air ducts is to distribute conditioned air (heated or cooled) from the HVAC system to different rooms or areas of a building. They also carry stale air back to the HVAC system to be filtered, conditioned, and recirculated. Ducts are typically made of sheet metal, fiberglass, or flexible material and come in various shapes (round, rectangular, or oval). The size and design of the ducts depend on the size of the HVAC system and the layout of the building. The ducts act as the pathways that direct the airflow. Air is drawn into the return ducts, which usually have vents in the walls or ceilings. This air travels through the return ducts to the HVAC system for conditioning. After the air is conditioned (either heated or cooled), it moves through the supply ducts and out of the vents, which are typically located in floors, ceilings, or walls in different rooms. In most systems, dampers or vents are used to control the flow of air through the ducts. They can adjust the amount of air reaching a specific area or room, ensuring that the temperature is uniform throughout the building. Some ducts, especially those running through unconditioned spaces (like attics or basements), are insulated to prevent energy loss. Insulation helps maintain the temperature of the air traveling through the ducts, making the system more efficient. Air ducts also often contain filters (or are connected to the HVAC system’s filter), which help to trap dust, allergens, and other particles in the air before it’s recirculated. This keeps the air inside the building clean and healthy.