9.1 Types of Air Distribution Systems Explained
1. Ducted Systems
Ducted systems use a network of ducts to distribute conditioned air throughout a building. These ducts are typically made of metal or flexible materials and are installed in walls, ceilings, or floors. Ducted systems are efficient for large spaces and can be integrated with heating and cooling systems.
Example: A central air conditioning system in a residential home that uses ducts to distribute cooled air to all rooms.
2. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-split systems, do not require ductwork. They consist of an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units via refrigerant lines. Ductless systems are ideal for homes without existing ducts and for zoned cooling.
Example: A home with multiple wall-mounted indoor units connected to a single outdoor unit for individual room cooling.
3. Radiant Heating Systems
Radiant heating systems distribute heat through radiation, typically using hot water pipes or electric heating elements embedded in floors, walls, or ceilings. These systems provide even and comfortable heating without the need for ducts.
Example: A residential home with hydronic radiant floor heating, where hot water circulates through pipes installed in the floor to heat the space.
4. Forced Air Systems
Forced air systems use a blower to circulate air through ducts. These systems can provide both heating and cooling by circulating heated or cooled air throughout the building. Forced air systems are common in residential and commercial buildings.
Example: A furnace in a home that uses ducts to distribute heated air during the winter and a central air conditioner to distribute cooled air during the summer.
5. Hydronic Systems
Hydronic systems distribute heat using water as the medium. Hot water is circulated through pipes to radiators or baseboards, providing efficient and comfortable heating. Hydronic systems can also be used for cooling by circulating chilled water.
Example: A commercial building with baseboard heaters that use hot water from a boiler to provide heating.
6. Fan Coil Units
Fan coil units are small, self-contained units that distribute conditioned air using a fan. They are typically used in conjunction with a central heating or cooling system to provide localized climate control. Fan coil units are common in hotels and office buildings.
Example: A hotel room with a wall-mounted fan coil unit that distributes cooled or heated air from a central HVAC system.
7. Radiant Panels
Radiant panels are heating systems that use electric resistance heating elements or hot water pipes embedded in panels installed on walls, ceilings, or floors. These panels provide direct and efficient heating by radiating heat into the space.
Example: A commercial office with ceiling-mounted radiant panels that provide comfortable heating without the need for ducts.
8. Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD)
Underfloor air distribution systems distribute conditioned air through a raised floor plenum. Cooled or heated air is supplied through diffusers in the floor, providing even temperature distribution and improved air quality. UFAD systems are common in large commercial buildings.
Example: A large office building with a raised floor system that distributes conditioned air through floor diffusers.
9. Ceiling Cassette Systems
Ceiling cassette systems are ductless systems that distribute conditioned air through ceiling-mounted units. These units are designed to blend seamlessly with the ceiling and provide efficient and quiet cooling. Ceiling cassette systems are ideal for commercial spaces.
Example: A retail store with ceiling-mounted cassette units that provide individual room cooling without the need for ductwork.