How To Make A Return Plenum In Floor Joist
Return air duct is connected together using s slips and drive cleats.
How to make a return plenum in floor joist. The photo below shows some of the joists in the vented crawl space that the basement was completely connected to. Building cavities used as return air plenums is one of the leading causes of duct leakage in homes today. Plan your cold air return ducts to fit comfortably in this area. Did that cause problems.
For example an 8 by 14 inch rectangular duct will fit between 2 by 10 floor joists installed 16 inches apart on center. Panned floor joist are a commonly utilized as return ducts by nailing gypsum board foil insulation osb flooring panels or sheet metal to the joists. Corrective measures are also suggested. Secure the duct to the ceiling joists with 1 inch galvanized hanger strap.
Inspectors can learn how air leakage from ductwork may cause home energy loss increase utility bills lower comfort levels and make the hvac system less efficient. It is impossible to create an airtight seal with this method and together with the negative pressure that is created inside the cavity air leakage occurs through joints of the rim at the end of the joist cavity. You rarely construct a plenum i have some who will call a mechanical room with a free return a plenum and that is incorrect. An enclosed portion of the building structure other than an occupiable space being conditioned that is designed to allow air movement and thereby serve as part of an air distribution system.