For those who experienced discoloration (cannot say the “m” word here) atop your air handler, improper plenum construction and implementation is most likely the cause. One of the many hands-on tasks at HVAC Technical Academy concentrates on is proper supply plenum construction and attachment.
Plenum and Air Distribution
Plenum and Air Distribution
A supply plenum is an enclosed chamber directly connected to the outlet of an HVAC unit, such as a furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump. Its purpose is to act as a central distribution manifold, gathering conditioned air (heated or cooled) from the equipment and evenly distributing it to the various supply ducts that lead to different rooms throughout a building.
Here’s why the plenum distribution box is critical to your cooling comfort:
* It equalizes air pressure before air enters the ducts, preventing “hot spots” or inconsistent airflow in different rooms.
* The box helps absorb sound from high-velocity airflow or mechanical system vibrations
* It serves as the starting point for branching out multiple duct lines to various areas of the home.
* Many plenum boxes, especially return ones, house the system’s air filters to protect internal components from dust and debris.
The group began working on their supply plenum project last Friday, do check in over the next couple of days to check out their progress.
If you enjoy daily challenges, working with your hands, and never a dull moment, the HVAC industry may be a good fit for you and HVAC Technical Academy can help you get there quickly, we are talking six weeks.
Danny