Minimized duct distribution systems afford the opportunity to solve many of the problems associated with duct systems, while reducing heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) costs and fostering energy efficient products and technologies. While such systems have been demonstrated in individual high-efficiency homes, the vast majority of residential HVAC contractors design duct systems using rules of thumb and design processes based on obsolete assumptions about house thermal characteristics. The result is a host of problems including significant energy waste, poor indoor air quality, and compromised health and safety. This project will develop a new commercial process for designing and installing a minimized duct distribution system for the production housing market. Phase I will focus on laboratory and field testing, field installations, and simulation to address the major barriers associated with the use of this new design and installation process.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: This work should result in individual products that can be integral to the new commercial process for minimized duct design, including, but not limited to a computerized design tool, inexpensive yet effective diffusers, and low-power high efficiency furnace blower motors.
