Mobile & Manufactured Home Ductwork: Flexible Duct & AC Differences

Mobile and manufactured homes present unique challenges when it comes to their HVAC systems. One crucial aspect is the ductwork, responsible for distributing conditioned air throughout the home. Understanding the differences between traditional home ductwork and the duct systems in mobile and manufactured homes is essential for maintaining system efficiency and comfort. These differences often involve the type of duct used, the way it’s installed, and the overall design considerations.

Ductwork Basics

Ductwork is the network of ducts that carries heated or cooled air from your HVAC system throughout your home. In the case of mobile homes, the design and installation of the ductwork are critical for ensuring proper airflow and consistent temperatures in every room. Issues like duct leaks or improper sealing can drastically reduce the system’s efficiency and lead to higher energy bills, making regular inspections essential for homeowners.

Understanding Duct Systems

A duct system is a network of interconnected ducts, vents, and plenums designed to distribute conditioned air evenly throughout a building. The efficiency of an HVAC system relies heavily on a well-designed and properly installed duct system. In mobile and manufactured homes, where space is often limited, the duct system must be carefully planned to maximize airflow and minimize energy loss. This also relates to AC repair Riverview FL performed by expert technicians to ensure the system is working correctly.

Types of Ducts Installed

In mobile and manufactured homes, flexible duct, often referred to as flex duct, is commonly used due to its ability to navigate tight spaces and irregular configurations. This type of duct is made from a flexible material, usually with insulation to prevent energy loss. While metal ducts are an option, flexible ducts are often preferred for their ease of installation. Understanding the specific types of ducts installed in your mobile home is crucial for proper maintenance and repair of the heat pump.

Fire Safety Regulations for Mobile Home Ductwork

Fire safety is a top concern when it comes to ductwork in mobile and manufactured homes—especially because the flexible ducts are often routed through tight spaces beneath the floor. To reduce the risk of fire, specific regulations must be followed regarding the materials and classes of ductwork installed.

Required Duct Classes: Class 0 and Class 1

Flexible ducts in mobile homes must meet strict standards for fire resistance. According to HUD and UL (Underwriters Laboratories) guidelines:

Only Class 0 or Class 1 rated flexible ducts are permitted.
- Class 0 ducts are designed to have no flame spread or smoke development.
- Class 1 ducts allow very minimal flame spread (not exceeding 25) and smoke development (not exceeding 50) per UL 181 standards.
Class 2 ducts are not allowed in mobile and manufactured homes due to their higher fire risk. These are rarely found in reputable supply chains for this reason.

Materials and Construction

Whenever possible, the HVAC components—like ducts, fittings, and dampers—should be made from non-combustible metals such as aluminum or galvanized steel. Since flexible ducts can’t be entirely metal, their internal surfaces and insulation must meet the above fire ratings to limit hazard potential.

Safe Distance from Heat Sources

All flexible ductwork must maintain a safe buffer from heat-producing appliances:

Flexible ducts should be kept at least three feet away from furnaces, radiators, stoves, and plenums (the main air distribution chamber in an HVAC system).
This clearance helps prevent accidental ignition from high temperatures or stray sparks, greatly reducing the risk of fire damage inside the home.

By following these regulations—using only approved duct classes, proper materials, and keeping safe distances from heat sources—homeowners and installers can protect the integrity and safety of their mobile home HVAC systems.

Duct Classes in Mobile Homes

When selecting ductwork for mobile and manufactured homes, the type of flex duct used must meet strict safety standards—primarily Class 0 or Class 1. Here’s the breakdown:

Class 0 ducts are rated to have zero flame spread and smoke development, making them the safest option regarding fire hazards.
Class 1 ducts can have a slight flame spread (up to 25) and smoke development (up to 50), but still adhere to safety standards set by UL 181.

Importantly, HUD regulations prohibit the use of Class 2 ducts in mobile homes since they do not meet these strict fire and smoke safety codes. As a result, only Class 0 or Class 1 flexible ducts are acceptable, ensuring both compliance and occupant safety.

Duct Size Considerations

Duct size is a critical factor in the performance of any HVAC system. In mobile homes, smaller ducts are frequently used, which can lead to higher static pressure and reduced airflow. Properly sizing flex ducts is essential to ensure that the air handler can effectively distribute conditioned air throughout the mobile home. An installer must consider the specific HVAC system, the layout of the mobile home, and the desired airflow when determining the appropriate duct size, whether that means using round size or flex duct size options.

Maximum Flex Duct Diameter in Mobile Homes

In most mobile and manufactured homes, the diameter of flexible ductwork is generally limited to a maximum of 12 inches. This size restriction is due to space constraints under the floor or within narrow wall cavities commonly found in these types of homes. While site-built, traditional homes might use larger ducts—sometimes up to 20 inches in diameter—mobile home installations rarely exceed a foot.

There are exceptions for larger systems, such as double-wide models equipped with higher-capacity units like a 3-ton heat pump. In these cases, flex duct diameters may occasionally be increased, typically up to 14 inches, to accommodate greater airflow. However, for the vast majority of mobile homes, sticking to a 12-inch diameter ensures proper fit and optimal system performance.

When Thicker Flex Ducts Are Needed

In some cases, especially in larger layouts like double-wide manufactured homes or homes equipped with high-capacity systems such as 3-ton heat pumps, thicker flex ducts may be necessary. These setups demand greater airflow to adequately serve all areas of the home. As a result, installers will opt for flex ducts larger than the standard 12- to 14-inch range to keep the HVAC system running efficiently. It’s important to note, however, that exceeding these sizes is typically reserved for homes with increased square footage or specialized fixtures that require more robust airflow management.

Ground Clearance Requirements for Mobile Home Ductwork

Ground clearance is an important consideration when it comes to installing and sizing ductwork beneath mobile and manufactured homes. Regulations, such as the HUD Code, specify a minimum distance between the bottom of the home and the ground—commonly at least 12 inches, but often 18 inches or more in places like Florida. This requirement isn’t just bureaucratic red tape; it plays a practical role in protecting both the HVAC system and the structural integrity of your home.

Why does this matter for ductwork? When installing flexible ducts beneath a mobile home, installers must ensure the ducts don’t hang too low, as this can eat into the necessary clearance. Oversized or improperly installed ducting can violate ground clearance codes, making inspection and approval difficult. But there are more stakes than just code compliance. If ductwork rests too close to the soil, it can invite a host of headaches:

Increased risk of damage from pests or debris—critters find it easier to access your HVAC system, leading to potential infestations or chewed insulation.
Greater chance of moisture buildup, which can accelerate rust and reduce the lifespan of your ducts.
Obstructed access for routine maintenance or repairs, making even simple fixes more costly.

Properly sized and installed ducts maintain adequate ground clearance, safeguard against unwanted pests, and help keep your system running efficiently. Skilled HVAC professionals, like those handling AC repair in Riverview FL, consider not just sizing and airflow, but also compliance with clearance codes and the unique environment under your mobile home. This attention to detail is critical for a safe, long-lasting system.

Flexible Duct in Mobile Homes

In mobile homes, AC repair Riverview FL often involves dealing with flex duct systems. Flexible duct, or flex ducts installed, is the common choice for ductwork due to its adaptability in the confined spaces of a split system. mobile home. Unlike traditional home ductwork, flexible duct is designed to navigate around obstacles and bend easily. This makes installing and maintaining flexible duct in a manufactured home a more manageable task. The ducting in a mobile home or trailer plays a pivotal role in housing and urban development. air distribution.

Fire Safety Concerns with Flex Ducts

While flexible ductwork offers several installation benefits for mobile and manufactured homes, it also introduces unique fire safety risks that must be addressed. Because flex ducts are typically routed beneath the floor, any spark or heat source near the ducting can pose a significant hazard. In the event of a fire, these ducts can act as a rapid pathway for flames due to their placement and construction materials, potentially leading to severe property damage within a short time.

For this reason, strict regulations govern the fire resistance of duct materials used in mobile homes. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires that any flexible ductwork must be classified as either Class 0 or Class 1 under UL 181 standards:

Class 0 ducts are designed to have no flame spread and no smoke development, making them the most fire-resistant option.
Class 1 ducts offer limited flame and smoke spread—a flame spread rating not exceeding 25, and a smoke development rating not exceeding 50.

These classifications exist to reduce fire risk and protect both the structure and occupants of the home. It’s also important that flex duct is not installed near major heat sources—such as furnaces, radiators, or stove plenums. A minimum clearance of three feet is typically recommended to prevent accidental ignition that could result from proximity to these appliances.

Understanding and following these safety standards is vital not only for compliance but for the overall well-being of those living in mobile or manufactured homes.

Why Flex Duct Thickness is Limited in Mobile Homes

You might wonder why there are strict rules about how thick your flex duct can be under a mobile or manufactured home. It all comes down to keeping your HVAC system efficient, your home safe, and your next inspection headache-free.

Clearance Matters

First, building codes—like those enforced in Florida and by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)—require a minimum gap between the underside of the home and the ground. Usually, that’s at least 12 inches, but in places like Florida, you’ll need at least 18 inches of clearance. Oversized flex ducts can chew up this space quickly, risking a violation and making it tough to do simple maintenance or repairs.

A duct that sags too close to the ground also creates an open invitation for critters and pests. Once they get inside your ductwork, you’re looking at more than just a chilly breeze—you could face expensive repairs and a lot of frustration.

Avoiding Sagging, Kinking, and Damage

There’s another reason to watch flex duct size: support. Ducts installed under mobile homes need to be properly supported using straps or blocks to prevent drooping, sharp bends, or ‘kinks’ that can choke off airflow. When a duct’s diameter gets too large—bigger than 12 inches, for example—it becomes much harder to support it evenly. The result? Sagging ducts, pinched airways, and a system that works overtime (and still leaves you uncomfortable).

In Short: Keeping flex duct size in check helps maintain proper ground clearance, blocks unwanted guests from crawling into your HVAC, and ensures your system runs reliably. Always consult local codes and an HVAC pro if you’re not sure what size is best for your setup.

Advantages of Flex Duct

Flex duct’s flexible nature simplifies installation, especially in tight crawl spaces, and typically comes with built-in insulation, enhancing system efficiency. Flex duct can be easily maneuvered around obstacles, reducing the need for precise measurements and custom fittings in mobile home packages. Furthermore, flexible duct typically comes with built-in insulation, which helps to insulate and minimize energy loss, enhancing system efficiency. Flexible duct is a cost-effective solution for heating and cooling in mobile home and manufactured home applications. The air flow is easily manageable by the installer.

Comparing R-6 and R-8 Flex Duct Costs

When selecting flex duct for your mobile home, it’s important to keep budget in mind—especially when choosing between R-6 and R-8 insulation ratings. R-6 flex duct is generally the more affordable option, with typical costs hovering around $1.25 per square foot. In contrast, R-8 flex duct—offering higher thermal resistance—can more than double that price, frequently reaching or exceeding $3.50 per square foot.

This price difference adds up quickly, particularly if you’re replacing or installing ductwork throughout an entire mobile home. Be sure to weigh the increased efficiency and insulation benefits of R-8 flex duct against its higher upfront cost when planning your mobile home HVAC upgrade or move.

The Role of Higher R-Rated Flex Ducts in Mobile Homes

When it comes to protecting your mobile home’s ductwork from unwanted critters and environmental hazards, the insulation rating—or R-value—plays a critical role. Flex ducts with higher R-ratings, such as R-8 or above, offer added layers of protection, not just against temperature swings but also against pests and moisture intrusion.

Enhanced Barrier Against Pests: Thicker insulation creates a sturdier duct wall, making it more difficult for insects, rodents, and other unwelcome guests to chew through or infiltrate. Since flex ducts in mobile homes are typically routed underneath the structure and exposed to the outdoors, they are especially vulnerable to pest entry.
Moisture and Water Damage Prevention: The increased thickness of higher R-rated ducts doesn’t just trap conditioned air—it also acts as a guard against condensation and water penetration. This protective barrier reduces the likelihood of mold, mildew, and eventual water damage, keeping your ductwork—and your air quality—in better condition.

Selecting flex ducts with a higher insulation rating can provide peace of mind, safeguarding your investment from common issues faced in mobile home setups.

Risks of Under-Rated Flex Ducts in Mobile Homes

Using flex ducts in a mobile or manufactured home that do not meet the required R-rating comes with several risks that can undermine your HVAC system and the integrity of your home.

First, ducts with insufficient insulation are far more susceptible to temperature swings and moisture intrusion since most mobile home ductwork is routed underneath the floor, directly exposed to the elements. This lack of adequate protection can lead to condensation inside and around the duct, which may result in water leaking beneath your home. Over time, excess moisture can weaken structural components and even cause rot or fungal growth under your floors—a major concern for long-term durability.

Beyond moisture concerns, lower R-rated flex ducts are more vulnerable to punctures or tears. Since these ducts are accessible to pests such as rodents or insects, a weaker duct wall can make it easier for unwanted critters to enter your ventilation system (and potentially your living space), leading to further complications.

In summary, improper R-rating isn’t just a minor technical detail—it’s a key factor in preventing leaks, discouraging pest entry, and protecting your home’s structure from damaging moisture.

Duct Thickness and the Risk of Kinking

When it comes to flex ductwork in mobile homes, the thickness (or more accurately, the diameter) of the duct plays a crucial role in overall system performance. Larger-diameter ducts—those over 12 inches—present unique challenges during installation. The wider the duct, the more difficult it becomes to properly support it throughout its length, especially in the limited space typically found beneath mobile homes.

Improperly supported large ducts are much more likely to sag. As these ducts sag, they become vulnerable to compression or kinking, which can severely restrict airflow and put a strain on your HVAC system. Over time, this could lead to uneven temperatures, higher energy bills, or even system failure.

That’s why professional installers use supports like straps or block cradles at recommended intervals to prevent drooping or sharp bends. Think of ductwork like a garden hose—if it’s not supported and takes on severe bends, the water (or in this case, the air) just can’t get through. Keeping duct diameters manageable, and ensuring proper support, helps maintain smooth airflow and keeps your entire system running efficiently.

Why Mobile Home Flex Ducts Need a Higher R-Rating

Flex ducts in mobile homes face unique challenges that set them apart from those used in traditional residential HVAC systems. Unlike ducts that run inside the insulated barriers of a house, mobile home flex ducts are often installed beneath the floor or even exposed to the outdoors. This means they’re directly affected by temperature fluctuations, humidity, and even potential intrusion from pests.

For this reason, a higher R-rating—typically R-8 or greater—is strongly recommended. The higher the R-value, the better the duct resists heat loss or gain, maintaining comfort while also boosting energy efficiency.

Here’s what a higher R-rating achieves for mobile home ductwork:

Enhanced Insulation: Stronger insulation keeps heated or cooled air at the desired temperature as it travels through exposed or unconditioned spaces, preventing wasted energy.
Moisture Protection: A robust outer layer helps prevent condensation and water leaks that could otherwise seep under the floor, risking damage such as rot or mold.
Pest Deterrence: Thicker duct material is more resilient to penetration by rodents or insects, a common concern given the ductwork’s proximity to the outside environment.

Investing in flex ducts with a higher R-rating is not just about meeting code—it’s about keeping your mobile home comfortable, efficient, and structurally sound for the long haul.

Recommended R-Rating for Mobile Home Flex Ducts

Flex duct insulation, often referred to as the R-rating, plays a significant role in maintaining efficiency and protecting your mobile home from the elements. For mobile and manufactured homes, the industry standard is an R-8 insulation rating for ducts located beneath the structure. This is a step up from the R-6 insulation required for ducts installed in the attic spaces of most site-built homes and apartments.

Why the difference? Mobile home ductwork is typically exposed to more drastic temperature swings, moisture, and even pests, as it’s usually installed in crawl spaces or under the home itself rather than protected inside an attic. The thicker R-8 insulation provides several key advantages:

Enhanced protection against heat loss and energy waste
Reduced risk of condensation and water damage
Better defense against insects and critters trying to sneak in

Ultimately, adhering to the R-8 standard keeps your system running efficiently and safeguards your mobile home’s structural integrity—important considerations whether your setup is single-wide or double-wide.

Installation of Flex Duct in Mobile Home Ductwork

Installing flex duct in a mobile home duct system requires careful attention to detail. The installer must address several key areas. These include:

Ensuring the flexible duct is properly supported to prevent sagging, which can restrict airflow and reduce system efficiency.
Sealing all connections and seams to prevent leaks and energy loss.

Proper insulation is essential, especially in unconditioned spaces like crawl spaces or attic areas. When installing any mobile home flex duct, the duct size must match the air handler requirements to ensure optimal air distribution.

Safe Distances Between Flex Ducts and Heat Sources

When installing flex duct in a mobile home, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance from major heat sources such as furnaces, stoves, radiators, or HVAC plenums. Keep at least three feet of separation between your flex duct and any intense heat source. This precaution helps prevent heat-related damage, which could potentially compromise the integrity of the ductwork and increase the risk of fire hazards.

Flex duct materials, though insulated, are susceptible to high temperatures. Placing them too close to heat-producing equipment may lead to melted insulation, reduced efficiency, or, in worst-case scenarios, fire risk. Always ensure flex ducts are routed away from any hot surfaces or combustion appliances to maintain both safety and performance within your mobile home HVAC system.

Precautions for Flex Ducts Near Moisture-Prone Areas

When installing flex duct in proximity to wet areas within a mobile home—such as bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry spaces—specific precautions are vital to protect both your ductwork and your air conditioning system’s performance.

To keep moisture from compromising your duct system, be sure to:

Suspend flex ducts above the floor to prevent contact with pooled water or condensation.
Route ducts well away from sources of frequent moisture, such as plumbing lines or water heaters.
Ensure ducts have ample clearance from large furniture, curtains, and interior doors to prevent compression and allow for proper airflow.
On installation, check that all joints and connections are tightly sealed with mastic or high-quality HVAC tape to block outside moisture from entering.

Taking these steps will help maintain steady airflow, protect the flex duct’s insulation, and prevent the growth of mold or mildew inside the duct system. This attention to detail goes a long way toward keeping your mobile home comfortable, efficient, and free from unnecessary moisture-related headaches.

Moisture and Flooding Risks in Mobile Home Ductwork

Mobile home ductwork faces unique challenges when it comes to moisture intrusion and flooding risk. Because ducts are often positioned in crawl spaces or close to plumbing fixtures, they’re more susceptible to exposure from water spills, leaks, and even outdoor conditions like wind-driven rain. When moisture finds its way into the duct system, several issues can emerge.

First, damp ducts can become a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria—especially problematic during the winter months when warm air circulates through the system. This not only worsens indoor air quality but can also lead to unpleasant odors and health concerns for residents.

Additionally, excess moisture within the ductwork can undermine your air conditioner’s ability to dehumidify effectively and may cause airflow restrictions, reducing overall system efficiency. Over time, persistent dampness may contribute to duct deterioration, insulation damage, and even structural rot.

To safeguard flex duct installations in moisture-prone areas:

Support ducts above the floor to limit contact with wet surfaces.
Avoid routing ducts near sources of water, such as beneath sinks or tubs.
Keep flexible ducts clear of obstructions like furniture and doors, allowing for consistent airflow and heat distribution.

By following these best practices, you can minimize the risks associated with moisture and help maintain the longevity and performance of your mobile home duct system.

Why Mobile Home Flex Ducts Need Higher Insulation Ratings

The placement of flex ducts in mobile and manufactured homes directly impacts the level of insulation they require. In most cases, these ducts are installed beneath the home or in other exposed locations, rather than within protected wall or ceiling cavities like in site-built structures. This means they face continuous exposure to outdoor temperatures, moisture, and even curious critters.

Because of this exposure, higher insulation levels—such as R-8 or greater—become essential. Here’s why:

Thermal Protection: With ducts running outside the main living space, they are far more vulnerable to temperature swings. A well-insulated duct keeps your cooled or heated air from losing energy to the surrounding environment, which boosts overall HVAC efficiency.
Moisture Control: Insulation helps guard against condensation forming on the duct surface. Moisture buildup can lead to water dripping beneath the flooring, eventually causing damage like rot or mold—especially problematic in the wood structures of manufactured homes.
Durability and Pest Protection: Thicker, well-rated insulation makes ducts tougher, helping keep out insects or small animals that might try to find their way inside. Given the ducts’ location under the home, this is an important line of defense.

Choosing flex duct with the appropriate insulation rating is not just about energy efficiency, but also about protecting the integrity and longevity of the mobile home’s duct system. Keeping these factors in mind means fewer headaches and better comfort for you year-round.

Risks of Flex Ducts Installed Too Close to the Ground

Installing flex ducts too close to the ground beneath a mobile home introduces several potential headaches for homeowners. First, inadequate clearance below the ductwork can cause flex ducts to sag, restricting airflow and compromising your system’s efficiency. This arrangement also makes it much easier for rodents, insects, and other pests to access the duct system, potentially leading to costly damage and future repairs—nobody wants to discover a family of squirrels using their AC system as a shortcut.

Additionally, insufficient ground clearance can raise red flags during a home inspection. Inspectors may cite this as a code violation, resulting in the need for unexpected fixes before a sale or transfer. To protect both your HVAC system and your wallet, it’s crucial to maintain proper clearance and support for all ductwork beneath a mobile or manufactured home.

Round Duct vs. Flexible Duct

When considering the choice between round duct and flexible duct for a mobile home, several factors come into play. Round duct, typically made of metal, offers better airflow due to its smooth interior surface. However, flexible duct is more adaptable to tight spaces and complex layouts often found in manufactured home. The friction rate tends to be lower in round duct, but the ease of installing flexible duct makes it a popular choice. The decision between using size round or size flex duct depends on the specific constraints of the mobile home and the priorities of the homeowner.

AC Systems and Ducting

Importance of Proper Ductwork in AC Efficiency

Proper ductwork ensures optimal airflow, minimizes energy loss, and reduces heating and cooling costs. A well-designed duct system ensures optimal airflow, allowing the HVAC system to operate efficiently. Ducts that are correctly sized, sealed, and insulated minimize energy loss, reducing heating and cooling costs. In manufactured homes, where space is limited, efficient ducting is even more critical for maintaining consistent temperatures and lowering utility bills for the homeowner.

Common AC Issues in Manufactured Homes

Common AC issues include leaky ducts, inadequate duct size, and improper insulation, all of which reduce system efficiency. Several ductwork-related problems can negatively impact your HVAC system:

Leaky ducts can cause significant energy loss, forcing the HVAC system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
Smaller ducts can lead to higher static pressure, reducing airflow and system efficiency.
Improper insulation of ducting can also contribute to energy waste.

Addressing these problems through professional AC services is essential for optimal performance, whether that means fixing duct leaks or addressing issues with the compressor.

Choosing the Right Duct for Your AC System

Choosing the right furnace is vital for efficiency in your mobile home. duct material and size is vital for an efficient AC system in a manufactured home. While metal ducts offer excellent airflow, flexible duct (or flex duct) is often preferred due to its ease of installing in tight spaces underneath the mobile home. Ensure the duct size matches the air handler’s specifications to prevent higher static pressure and reduced airflow. Proper insulation is also essential, regardless of the furnace type installed. ductwork material. Consider the specific constraints of your mobile home when making your selection for a mobile home package.

Maintenance and Repair

Signs Your Ductwork Needs Repair

Signs of ductwork problems should be taken seriously and include several key indicators. These can manifest in the following ways, including issues with the damper.

Inconsistent room temperatures and unusually high energy bills.
Visible ducts showing signs of leaks and excessive dust or debris coming from vents.

Strange noises from the HVAC system could also indicate restricted airflow due to damaged ducting or a malfunctioning blower. Regular inspections of the mobile home flex duct can help identify these issues early, preventing more extensive and costly repairs.

AC Repair in Riverview FL

For reliable AC repair Riverview FL, it’s essential to choose experienced professionals. These technicians specialize in diagnosing and resolving AC issues, including ductwork problems in homes for sale can often be traced back to the HVAC system. mobile and manufactured homes. Whether it’s sealing duct leaks, replacing damaged ducts for leaks is necessary to ensure efficiency. flexible duct, or optimizing airflow, a skilled installer can ensure your HVAC system operates efficiently. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can extend the lifespan of your AC unit and save you money on energy bills.

Tips for Maintaining Home Ductwork

Regularly inspect for damage and leaks, ensure proper insulation, and clean or replace filters to maintain ductwork. Maintaining your home ductwork involves several key steps. Regularly inspect your furnace and ducts for leaks to avoid costly repairs. ducting for any signs of damage or leaks, especially in vulnerable areas like joints and seams. Ensure that all ducts are properly insulated to minimize energy loss. Clean or replace your ducts for leaks regularly to maintain optimal airflow. filter regularly to maintain optimal airflow. Consider having a professional HVAC technician inspect and clean your duct system periodically to ensure peak performance and prevent potential problems. Preventative maintenance will prolong the life of your mobile home flex duct and air conditioner.