High Velocity
Air Conditioning

I first became aware of high velocity air conditioning systems in 1989.

These systems are also referred to as mini duct systems.

I was intrigued by the idea that you could air condition a home using 4” flexible tubing.

If it’s 90 degrees outside, it’s 120 degrees in an attic.

After we installed our first high velocity system, I knew I never again wanted to install a conventional duct system in an attic.

Installing a 9” main trunk duct instead of a 30” x 8” duct takes much less effort.

It’s so much easier installing 4” flexible hoses vs. 6” or 8” ducts.

High velocity mini duct systems go where conventional ductwork cannot.

A lot of high velocity systems we install are in older homes.

Our clients are particularly happy they can have central air conditioning in their historic homes without upsetting the architectural integrity.

There could be know way we could install central air in these homes without major renovations, cutting, patching and installing soffits.

Most people are willing to let us run a couple of 4” hoses through a closet but would never give up the space with a 6” or 8” duct.

We are installing more and more mini duct systems in new construction because of the design of some new homes maker it very difficult to install larger, bulkier duct systems.

Air conditioning and heating systems seem to be an after-thought in these designs.

Even though houses are bigger, mechanical contractors have to compete for space for the mechanical systems.

High velocity mini ducts help to solve this problem.

You can also use this duct system for heating.

Heat pump and geothermal systems can be integrated, you can install an electric duct heater package or even a hot water coil (hydro-air) to the blower module.

The heat is very comfortable, with floor to ceiling temperatures within 2 degrees, no matter where the supply outlet is located.

One question that seems to come up quite often is about noise level.

There is a perception that these units are loud.

If they are not installed properly, they will be loud.

If the proper guidelines are followed, they are as quiet as a well designed conventional duct system.

What most people don’t realize is high velocity systems use on ½ the air flow of standard duct systems.

They also use a special sound absorbing tube that acts as muffler.

There are two major players in the high velocity market.

They are Unico and Space Pak.

We have installed both with very good success.

I like the Space Pak a little better, only because of ease of installation of some of their components.

If you find a competent HVAC contractor with experience and a good track record with high velocity mini duct systems you’ll enjoy many years of comfort and reliability.

That all of our high velocity work is generated by unsolicited referrals from satisfied clients, speaks for itself.

Heating and air Conditioning Guide Home Page