CSLB Class B General Contractor's License Practice Exam

What is one of the main advantages of keeping ducts inside the conditioned space?

1. It decreases material costs

2. It minimizes insulation requirements

3. It simplifies installation

4. It eliminates leakage risks

The correct answer is: It minimizes insulation requirements

Keeping ducts inside the conditioned space is primarily advantageous as it minimizes insulation requirements. When ducts are located within areas that are already heated or cooled, they do not lose as much energy to the surrounding environment. As a result, there is less need for extensive insulation around the ducts since they are not exposed to temperature fluctuations that can lead to heat loss or gain. This not only improves the overall energy efficiency of the HVAC system but also can reduce costs associated with insulating those ducts. Moreover, minimizing insulation requirements can lead to a simpler system design, as the need to insulate every duct run may be reduced, thus lowering both material and labor costs. This approach also enhances the performance of heating and cooling systems since the conditioned air does not lose its optimal temperature before reaching the intended spaces. While there are advantages related to material costs, installation simplicity, and leakage risks, the key benefit in this case centers around insulation and energy efficiency.