It’s possible that you don’t even know what a plenum is, much less that there are different types. Well, we’re here to tell you about the plenum in the HVAC. A plenum is ultimately a specialized type of ductwork that is used to help evenly distribute air throughout your HVAC system. Plenums help control the air pressure and temperature and can either push or remove air when necessary. Because of their ability to regulate, they’re often a popular choice for factories or commercial buildings, but can also be installed residentially as they help increase airflow and in turn reduce humidity.
Explore Plenum Types and Benefits in New York and New Jersey
A plenum can also be known as a plenum box, and there are two types of plenums.
Supply
As you may guess, the supply plenum is connected to the supply unit of the air conditioner, furnace, or heat pump. It ultimately helps distribute air throughout your home or building, moving fresh and used air into their applicable regions post cooling or heating. The supply plenum is typically the first stop of the air’s journey.
Return
Return plenums on the other hand are connected to your return ducts or supply outlets. For efficient and healthy operation, this air needs proper filtration, because of this these plenums are typically outfitted with filters, as its main goal is to return filtered conditioned air back to your system through the return grills. These plenums typically work by getting air from your return vents, heating or cooling it, and then sending it for redistribution.
The return category can further break down into “open” and “closed” plenum systems.
- With an open plenum (as most typically found in Manhattan homes) the return system pulls air from the area around the unit (From basements, crawlspaces, or wherever it’s installed), instead of from the living space. This can lead to air quality concerns as filters tend to get dirtier faster, and the air used can often be filled with dust, construction debris, and things of the like.
- When it comes to closed plenums, they are generally preferred. They pull air directly from each room via the connected vents, and this in turn leads to air that’s cleaner and more controlled. Because of this filters tend to stay cleaner longer and there’s a higher efficiency overall.
In the above images, we installed a plenum unit for a client in her ceiling along with supporting ductwork for best operation. This way, air is best able to move from the living space to the system.
Benefits
A plenum can come with some benefits.
- Improved Air Distribution/Circulation
- Smell Reduction
- Noise Reduction
- Improved Air Quality
- Improved Energy Efficiency
- Reduced Humidity
For example, since air is isolated, the noise level of the unit is often reduced. The obvious benefit would be improved air distribution, especially to the rooms where the air return is located. Being that circulation is improved, this also typically remedies unpleasant odors. Along with that can come improved air quality and energy efficiency. One can also experience benefits such as reduced humidity levels, and also a cleaner system overall.
Installing & Maintaining Plenums in New York and New Jersey
When comparing the two types of plenums, the return is typically easier to access, but the filter in the return plenum is also typically the one that needs the most maintenance. When it comes to installing, we advise you to hire a professional. Prices can vary depending on the type of plenum you decide to go with, the condition of your current unit, and if any other issues are found during installation. Nonetheless, the investment will pay for itself once you experience the improved air quality, energy efficiency, and climate control.
Plenum Essentials: A Quick Summary for NY & NJ Residents
We hope we’ve given you an adequate plenum definition and plenum meaning, so you’re no longer left asking “what is a plenum”. To summarize, a plenum (which can also be referred to as a plenum box) is a point of central distribution of air. It’s key in regulating the temperature and quality of air in a building, and in turn plays a large part in maintaining the comfort and air quality as a whole.
Our team will be happy to help–whether it’s to assess, advise, or to install a plenum for you, don’t hesitate and reach out today, 888-334-1612.
