What is the effect of inadequate duct sizing on an HVAC system?

Inadequate duct sizing can lead to reduced airflow, which is a significant concern for HVAC systems. When ducts are not appropriately sized, the air does not move through the system efficiently. This can manifest in poor distribution of heated or cooled air throughout a building, resulting in areas that are either too hot or too cold.

Moreover, insufficient airflow can cause the evaporator coil in air conditioning systems to operate with lower air volume than needed. This can lead to the coil becoming too cold and potentially freezing, which would further impede airflow. A frozen coil can damage the system and requires immediate maintenance to resolve the underlying duct sizing issue.

Thus, the consequences of inadequate duct sizing primarily include reduced airflow and potential coil freezing, making it critical to ensure that ductwork is properly sized during the installation or modification of an HVAC system to maintain optimal performance and efficiency.