What does airflow resistance in duct systems affect?

Airflow resistance in duct systems directly affects energy consumption. When air has to work harder to flow through a duct due to resistance—caused by factors such as bends, obstructions, or an inadequate duct size—it requires more energy from the HVAC system to maintain the desired airflow. This increase in energy demand leads to higher operational costs, as the system must expend more electricity to push the air through the resistance.

On the other hand, while airflow resistance can influence temperature retention, noise levels, and flow rate control, the most significant and measurable impact is on energy consumption. Efficient duct design and proper airflow management are essential for reducing resistance, which in turn optimizes energy usage, promotes system efficiency, and lowers costs for the end user.