What is a potential issue with having ducts that are too small?

Having ducts that are too small can lead to reduced airflow and higher energy costs. When the duct size is inadequate for the volume of air that needs to be moved through the system, it creates a bottleneck effect. This restriction causes the HVAC system to work harder to push air through the smaller passage, resulting in increased energy consumption. Additionally, the restricted airflow may lead to uneven heating or cooling throughout the space, causing some areas to be too hot or too cold, further exacerbating energy use as the system struggles to maintain the desired temperature.

This situation ultimately impacts the efficiency of the entire HVAC system, leading to higher utility bills and potential wear on the equipment due to overwork. Therefore, the sizing of ducts is vital for maintaining optimal performance and energy efficiency in an HVAC system.