The average cost of installing ductwork is $1,950 for a 100-square-foot area. ^{3 6}

Here are the main points you need to know about installing ductwork:

• Steps: Planning and design, material selection, duct fabrication, duct installation, sealing and insulation, testing and balancing, and regular maintenance. ^{3 6}
• Materials: Metal, flex, or fiberglass. Each has its pros and cons in terms of durability, cost, installation ease, maintenance, and energy efficiency. ^{3 5}
• Benefits and drawbacks: Improved comfort and air quality, enhanced energy efficiency and cost savings, and increased home value and appeal, but also higher upfront costs and installation time, potential maintenance and repair issues, and possible noise and aesthetic problems. ^{10 11}
• Tips and best practices: Plan your duct layout, choose the right duct material, use short, straight runs, include return air vents, install dampers in branch ducts, seal and insulate your ducts, keep ductwork in conditioned spaces, and plan for filtration and safety. ^{11 13}
• Professional contractors: Check their qualifications and references, get at least three quotes, ask questions and clarify expectations, and review the contract and warranty before hiring them. ^{14 15}

Installing ductwork for your HVAC system can improve your home's comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency, but it also requires proper planning, design, materials, tools, and skills. For more information on each of these points, please refer to the following sections of this document.