Air Duct vs. Air Vent: What’s the Difference?

The major difference between the air duct and the air vent is that the air duct is a complex network in the HVAC system that transports air throughout the home. Air vents, on the other hand, are the openings that facilitate the air into or outside the spaces.  People often get confused about the difference between air ducts and air vents. Both components play vital roles in maintaining airflow and temperature control in the aircon system. However, these components are completely different. Let’s know how these two ducted aircon system components differ and how they function.

 

What Are Air Ducts? 

Air ducts are a complex network or channel that is responsible for transporting air throughout the ducted aircon system. This network distributes temperature-controlled air from the AC unit to various rooms. The construction of air ducts includes materials like sheet metal, fiberglass, and flexible plastic. These systems get installed in ceilings or walls as well as floors. They typically stay out of sight behind the building structures.

Main Functions of Air Ducts

Distribute air: The HVAC unit sends conditioned air through the air ducts to reach every room in the home.

Return air: Ducts transport return air to the aircon or HVAC unit where the air undergoes filtration and conditioning.

Improve air quality: Correct ductwork design provides efficient airflow circulation.

 

What Are Air Vents? 

Air vents are typically openings that allow airflow into and out of a room. Air vents are present at the endpoints of the air ducts. They facilitate airflow movement into and out of the space.

There are two types of vents: supply vents and return vents. Supply vents push air into the room while return vents draw air back into the aircon or HVAC system.

Main Functions of Air Vents: 

Supply air: Supply vents consist of openings where ducts release conditioned air into rooms.

Return air: Return vents draw stale air into the HVAC system for filtration and reconditioning.

Control airflow: Numerous vents feature adjustable grilles or louvers which enable users to regulate airflow into rooms.

 

Table of Comparison

Key Differences Between Air Ducts and Air Vents

Here are the key differences between these two ducted aircon components: 

1. Function 

• Air ducts deliver air from the HVAC unit to every room in the house.
• Air vents function as entry and exit points for airflow within a room.

2. Visibility 

• Air ducts are typically concealed inside walls, ceilings, or floors.
• Air vents allow airflow into rooms. They are visible on walls or ceilings.

3. Role in Air Circulation 

• The air ducts act as channels or networks through which air travels.
• Air vents control both air inflow and outflow in the room.

4. Material 

• Manufacturers construct air ducts using materials such as sheet metal or flexible plastic.
• The construction of air vents typically involves plastic or metal materials. They come with adjustable grilles.

Which Is More Important: Air Duct or Air Vent? 

Both air vents and air ducts are dependent on each other. Both these components work together in an HVAC system. They cooperate to establish a balanced system. The absence of ducts would stop air from moving through the house and without vents air couldn’t flow into or out of rooms. Hence, a well-functioning system requires both components to operate effectively.

 

FAQs 

Can I clean air ducts and vents myself? 

Anyone can clean air vents themselves but cleaning air ducts needs professional tools and knowledge.

What is the recommended frequency for cleaning my air ducts and vents?

Air ducts need cleaning every three to five years. Pay attention to air vents too and clean them more often.

What happens if air ducts are damaged? 

When air ducts become damaged, the insulation of the system is hampered which results in system inefficiency and uneven temperature. 

Are there signs of blocked air vents? 

You may feel hot or may not be able to regulate airflow effectively if the air vents are blocked. 

Is it possible to save energy by closing vents in rooms that aren’t used?

Closing vents to unused rooms seems efficient but leads to system pressure imbalances and escalates wear and tear.

 

 

 

Conclusion 

The efficiency and comfort level of your HVAC system relies heavily on properly functioning air ducts and vents. Air ducts function as conduits for airflow but vents maintain control over how air enters and leaves each room. Maintaining both air ducts and air vents properly creates optimal air quality along with enhanced comfort and energy efficiency in your home.