Hvac Duct Design Calculator

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HVAC Duct Design Calculator

Accurately determine optimal duct sizes for efficient home or commercial climate control.

Duct Sizing Calculator

Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) – Total air volume needed for the space.
Inches of Water Column (In. W.C.) – Resistance to airflow in the entire duct system.
Pounds per 100ft (in. W.C. / 100 ft) – Target pressure drop per 100 feet of ductwork.
Sheet Metal Flex Duct Duct Board Select the material for your ductwork.

Duct Design Results

Calculating…

Approximate Duct Length (ft)

Equivalent Round Duct Diameter (in)

Estimated Air Velocity (FPM)

Formula Used (Simplified): Duct sizing relies on balancing airflow (CFM), desired friction rate, and system static pressure to determine appropriate duct dimensions. The equivalent round duct diameter is calculated based on the airflow and a velocity target or friction rate. Velocity is then derived.
HVAC Duct Design Results:
Approximate Duct Length: — ft
Equivalent Round Duct Diameter: — in
Estimated Air Velocity: — FPM
Assumptions:
Duct Material: —
Required Airflow: — CFM
Total System Static Pressure: — In. W.C.
Desired Friction Rate: — lbs/100ft

Duct Sizing Comparison Chart

Chart displays target friction rate vs. required duct diameter for different airflow rates.

Recommended Velocity Ranges by Application
Application Typical Velocity (FPM) Notes
Main Ducts (Plenum) 700 – 900 FPM Higher flow, can tolerate higher velocity
Branch Ducts 600 – 800 FPM Connect main ducts to diffusers
Runs to Small Rooms 400 – 600 FPM Quieter operation needed
Return Ducts 600 – 900 FPM Return air to the unit
Attic/Crawlspace Ducts 500 – 700 FPM Accessibility can influence sizing

{primary_keyword}

{primary_keyword} is the process of designing and sizing the network of hollow conduits that deliver conditioned air from your HVAC system to various rooms in a building, and return it to the unit. Proper {primary_keyword} ensures that the right amount of air reaches each space at the correct temperature and velocity, optimizing comfort, energy efficiency, and system performance. This involves calculating the required airflow for each area, accounting for pressure losses due to friction and fittings, and selecting duct materials and dimensions that meet these demands without excessive noise or energy consumption.

Anyone involved in HVAC installation, home renovation, energy efficiency upgrades, or building design can benefit from understanding {primary_keyword}. This includes HVAC technicians, contractors, architects, home builders, and even discerning homeowners looking to improve their indoor environment. Misconceptions often arise, such as assuming larger ducts are always better, or that a "one-size-fits-all" approach works. In reality, oversized ducts can lead to inefficient airflow and reduced velocity, while undersized ducts cause strain on the system and noise. A well-designed duct system is crucial for a balanced and effective HVAC operation.

{primary_keyword} Formula and Mathematical Explanation

The core of {primary_keyword} involves understanding the relationship between airflow, duct dimensions, friction, and velocity. While complex HVAC design software uses detailed psychrometric and fluid dynamics calculations, a foundational understanding can be derived from the fan laws and pressure drop principles. The primary goal is to achieve a target airflow (CFM) at a specific friction rate (usually expressed in inches of water column per 100 feet) and acceptable velocity.

A common method for sizing ducts, especially round ducts, is using the Equal Friction Method. This method aims to maintain a constant pressure drop per unit length throughout the duct system. The key equation relates airflow to duct size and friction loss:

Airflow (Q) = Velocity (V) × Area (A)

Where:

  • Q is airflow in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM).
  • V is air velocity in Feet per Minute (FPM).
  • A is the cross-sectional area of the duct in Square Feet (ft²).

The friction loss (ΔP) is often calculated using formulas like the ASHRAE formula or derived from friction charts. A simplified representation for pressure drop per 100 feet of duct length (often referred to as friction rate) can be approximated. For sizing, we often work backward from a desired friction rate and airflow to find the required duct diameter or dimension.

The calculator uses an iterative process or lookup tables derived from these principles. Given the required airflow (Q) and desired friction rate (f), it determines the appropriate duct size. For round ducts, the area (A) can be found, and then the diameter (D) can be calculated:

A = π * (D/2)², so D = 2 * sqrt(A/π)

The equivalent diameter for rectangular ducts is determined such that it has the same friction loss and airflow characteristics as a round duct of that diameter.

The Air Velocity (V) is then calculated as V = Q / A.

Variables and Typical Ranges:

Variable Meaning Unit Typical Range
Q (Airflow) Volume of air to be moved per minute CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) 100 – 50,000+ (Residential to Commercial)
f (Friction Rate) Pressure loss per 100 ft of ductwork in. W.C. / 100 ft 0.04 – 0.15 (Commonly 0.08 – 0.10)
V (Velocity) Speed of air moving through the duct FPM (Feet per Minute) 400 – 1000 (Varies by application)
D (Duct Diameter/Equivalent Diameter) Size of the duct opening Inches (in) 3 – 48+ (Varies greatly)
TSP (Total System Static Pressure) Total resistance in the HVAC system Inches W.C. (Water Column) 0.2 – 1.5 (Residential); 0.5 – 3.0+ (Commercial)
Material Factor Roughness and flow characteristics of duct material N/A Sheet Metal, Flex Duct, Duct Board

Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)

Let's consider two scenarios for {primary_keyword}:

Example 1: Residential Living Room Add-on

A homeowner is adding a sunroom and needs to extend the HVAC system. The required airflow for this new space is estimated at 600 CFM. The existing system operates at a target friction rate of 0.08 in. W.C. per 100 ft. The duct material will be standard galvanized sheet metal. The technician estimates the longest duct run will be approximately 50 feet.

  • Inputs: Airflow = 600 CFM, Friction Rate = 0.08 lbs/100ft, Duct Material = Sheet Metal, Approximate Length = 50 ft.
  • Calculator Output (simulated):
    • Equivalent Round Duct Diameter: 10 inches
    • Estimated Air Velocity: 750 FPM
    • Primary Result (Total Pressure Drop for 50ft): 0.40 in. W.C. (calculated as 0.08 lbs/100ft * 50ft / 100)
  • Interpretation: A 10-inch round duct (or equivalent rectangular size) is recommended for this 600 CFM load. The calculated velocity is within the typical range for branch ducts, suggesting good airflow without excessive noise. The total pressure drop over the 50ft run is acceptable for this section of the system.

Example 2: Small Commercial Office Space Main Trunk

An office space requires a total of 3,500 CFM. The designer wants to use sheet metal for the main supply trunk and targets a friction rate of 0.10 in. W.C. per 100 ft for better airflow performance in a potentially longer run. The estimated main trunk length from the air handler to the first major branch takeoff is 75 feet.

  • Inputs: Airflow = 3500 CFM, Friction Rate = 0.10 lbs/100ft, Duct Material = Sheet Metal, Approximate Length = 75 ft.
  • Calculator Output (simulated):
    • Equivalent Round Duct Diameter: 18 inches
    • Estimated Air Velocity: 850 FPM
    • Primary Result (Total Pressure Drop for 75ft): 0.75 in. W.C. (calculated as 0.10 lbs/100ft * 75ft / 100)
  • Interpretation: An 18-inch round duct is suggested for the main supply trunk carrying 3500 CFM. The velocity of 850 FPM is at the higher end but acceptable for a main commercial trunk, balancing duct size with air delivery. The pressure drop of 0.75 in. W.C. for this section needs to be factored into the overall Total System Static Pressure calculation.

How to Use This HVAC Duct Design Calculator

Using this {primary_keyword} calculator is straightforward and designed to provide quick, actionable insights:

  1. Determine Required Airflow (CFM): This is the most critical input. You'll need to calculate or estimate the Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) required for the specific zone or room you are servicing. This is typically based on the square footage, insulation levels, window area, and heating/cooling load calculations for that space. Consult an HVAC professional or load calculation software for accurate CFM values.
  2. Assess Total System Static Pressure (TSP): While not directly used in the simplified diameter calculation, knowing the TSP of the overall system is vital for ensuring your fan can overcome the system's resistance. The friction rate you choose contributes to this.
  3. Set Desired Friction Rate: This value (in inches of water column per 100 feet) represents how much pressure you want to lose due to friction in each 100 feet of ductwork. A lower friction rate generally means larger ducts and quieter operation but can require larger physical spaces. A higher rate allows for smaller ducts but increases the risk of noise and strain on the fan. Common residential values range from 0.06 to 0.10 in. W.C./100 ft.
  4. Select Duct Material: Choose the material your ductwork will be made from (Sheet Metal, Flex Duct, Duct Board). Different materials have varying friction characteristics and installation considerations that affect sizing.
  5. Input Approximate Duct Length: Provide an estimate of the longest duct run for the section you are sizing. This helps the calculator estimate the total pressure drop for that run.
  6. Click 'Calculate': The calculator will instantly provide:
    • Primary Result: The estimated Total Pressure Drop for the specified duct length and friction rate. This is a key metric for system balance.
    • Approximate Duct Length: Confirms the input length.
    • Equivalent Round Duct Diameter: The recommended round duct size (or its equivalent for rectangular ducts) to meet the CFM and friction rate requirements.
    • Estimated Air Velocity: The calculated speed of air within the selected duct size. Check this against recommended ranges (see table above) to ensure efficient and quiet operation.
  7. Interpret Results: Compare the calculated velocity against the recommended ranges in the table. Ensure the primary result (pressure drop) fits within your system's overall static pressure budget.
  8. Reset or Copy: Use the 'Reset' button to start over with default values. Use 'Copy Results' to easily transfer the calculated data and assumptions.

Remember, this calculator provides a valuable estimate based on the Equal Friction method. For complex systems or critical applications, always consult a qualified HVAC professional and consider using specialized duct design software.

Key Factors That Affect HVAC Duct Design Results

Several factors significantly influence the outcomes of {primary_keyword} and the performance of the final HVAC system:

  1. Required Airflow (CFM): This is paramount. Underestimating CFM leads to inadequate heating/cooling, while overestimating wastes energy and can cause discomfort. Accurate load calculations are essential.
  2. Friction Rate Selection: This is a balancing act. Lower friction rates demand larger ducts (more space, higher material cost) but reduce fan energy use and noise. Higher friction rates allow for smaller ducts but increase static pressure and the risk of noise. Target values depend on system design and priorities.
  3. Duct Material Properties: Smooth sheet metal has lower friction than flexible duct, which has a significantly rougher interior surface and can be easily compressed or kinked, dramatically increasing resistance. Duct board offers moderate resistance. The choice impacts required duct size for the same performance.
  4. Duct Layout and Fittings: The number of elbows, transitions, takeoffs, and dampers all add to the system's static pressure load (dynamic losses). A simple, direct run requires less airflow capacity than a complex layout with many turns and fittings. These need to be accounted for in the overall TSP.
  5. System Static Pressure (TSP) Limit: Every fan has a performance curve. The chosen duct sizes and fitting resistances must not exceed the fan's capability to deliver the required airflow. If the total resistance is too high, airflow drops, and efficiency plummets.
  6. Acoustic Considerations (Noise): High air velocities can generate significant noise, especially where air exits diffusers or enters return grilles. Sizing ducts to keep velocities within recommended ranges (as shown in the table) is crucial for occupant comfort.
  7. Building Pressure: Maintaining a slight positive or negative pressure in the building relative to the outside can affect infiltration and exfiltration. Duct design contributes to the overall pressure balance.
  8. Installation Quality: Poorly installed flex duct (long runs, sharp bends, kinks, sagging) drastically increases friction and reduces actual airflow compared to calculations. Sealed joints are also critical to prevent air leakage, which wastes energy and reduces delivered air volume.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between friction rate and total static pressure?

A: The friction rate is the pressure loss due to friction per 100 feet of ductwork (e.g., 0.10 in. W.C./100 ft). Total Static Pressure (TSP) is the *total* resistance in the entire HVAC system, including friction in the ducts, resistance from filters, coils, registers, grilles, and any other components, measured in inches of water column (in. W.C.).

Q2: Can I use the same duct size for supply and return?

A: Generally, return ducts should be sized larger than supply ducts for the same airflow. This is because return ducts operate at lower velocities to minimize noise and because they carry the entire return air volume back to the unit, whereas supply splits the air. However, common practice often uses similar sizing principles, focusing on maintaining good velocity ranges for both.

Q3: My ducts are noisy. Is my HVAC duct design the problem?

A: Noise is often caused by air moving too fast through the ducts or at the registers/grilles. This can be a direct result of undersized ducts for the required airflow. High velocities create turbulence and noise. Check the 'Estimated Air Velocity' output of the calculator; if it's significantly above the recommended range, your ducts may be too small.

Q4: What is the best duct material for HVAC?

A: For main trunk lines, rigid sheet metal (galvanized steel or aluminum) is often preferred for its smooth interior, durability, and minimal airflow resistance. Flexible duct is common for final connections to registers due to ease of installation in tight spaces but requires careful installation to avoid performance issues. Duct board offers good insulation properties but is less durable and has higher friction than sheet metal.

Q5: How do I calculate the required CFM for a room?

A: Calculating CFM requires a Manual J load calculation, which considers factors like square footage, ceiling height, insulation levels, window type and size, climate zone, and occupancy. A simplified rule of thumb is 400 CFM per ton of cooling, but this needs to be distributed based on room load. For accurate sizing, consult an HVAC professional or use reputable load calculation software.

Q6: What happens if my ducts are significantly oversized?

A: Oversized ducts lead to lower air velocity. While this reduces noise and friction loss, very low velocities can result in poor air mixing, stratification (hot or cold spots), and inefficient distribution of conditioned air. The system may not effectively deliver the required heating or cooling to the intended spaces.

Q7: Can I use this calculator for both heating and cooling?

A: Yes, the fundamental principles of {primary_keyword} (airflow, friction, velocity) apply to both heating and cooling. The required CFM might differ slightly between heating and cooling loads for a space, so it's best to size ducts based on the higher CFM requirement or perform calculations for both seasons if significant differences exist.

Q7: What is an "equivalent round duct diameter"?

A: HVAC systems often use rectangular ducts for space-saving reasons. The "equivalent round duct diameter" is the diameter of a round duct that would have the same friction loss and airflow characteristics as a given rectangular duct size. This allows for consistent calculations and comparisons using standard sizing charts and formulas.

var chartInstance = null; // Global variable to hold chart instance function validateInput(value, id, min, max, name) { var errorElement = document.getElementById(id + "Error"); if (value === "") { errorElement.textContent = name + " is required."; return false; } var numValue = parseFloat(value); if (isNaN(numValue)) { errorElement.textContent = name + " must be a valid number."; return false; } if (min !== null && numValue max) { errorElement.textContent = name + " cannot be greater than " + max + "."; return false; } errorElement.textContent = ""; return true; } function getDuctMaterialFactor(material) { if (material === "flex_duct") return 1.5; // Higher friction for flex if (material === "duct_board") return 1.2; // Higher friction for board return 1.0; // Baseline for sheet metal } function calculateDuctSizing() { var airflow = document.getElementById("airflow").value; var staticPressure = document.getElementById("staticPressure").value; // Not directly used in diameter calc, but good for context var frictionRate = document.getElementById("frictionRate").value; var ductMaterial = document.getElementById("ductMaterial").value; var isAirflowValid = validateInput(airflow, "airflow", 100, 50000, "Required Airflow"); var isStaticPressureValid = validateInput(staticPressure, "staticPressure", 0.1, 3.0, "Total System Static Pressure"); // Adjusted max for broader context var isFrictionRateValid = validateInput(frictionRate, "frictionRate", 0.01, 0.20, "Desired Friction Rate"); if (!isAirflowValid || !isStaticPressureValid || !isFrictionRateValid) { document.getElementById("resultsSection").style.display = 'none'; return; } var q = parseFloat(airflow); var fr = parseFloat(frictionRate); var materialFactor = getDuctMaterialFactor(ductMaterial); // Simplified calculation for equivalent round duct diameter based on friction rate and airflow // This is a common approximation derived from ductulator principles // A = Q / V, and V is related to friction rate and diameter. // We'll approximate by using a velocity range that aligns with the friction rate. // A more precise method involves iterative lookup or complex formulas. // For this approximation, we'll target a velocity that results in the desired friction rate. // Approximate relationship: higher friction rate implies smaller duct/higher velocity for same airflow // Let's use a standard HVAC formula approach. A common formula relates CFM, Velocity, and Diameter: // D = sqrt( (4 * CFM) / (PI * FPM) ) where D is diameter in feet. Convert to inches. // To find the correct FPM for a given friction rate, we can use friction charts or approximations. // A common HVAC approximation for friction loss (in. W.C./100ft) is: // FrictionLoss ≈ k * (CFM^1.85) / (D^4.87) (for Sheet Metal) – This is complex to invert directly. // A more practical approach using a ductulator concept: // Find the friction rate corresponding to a typical velocity range. // Or, find the required duct size for a given CFM and friction rate. // Using a simplified approximation tool: // Let's assume a target velocity that generally aligns with the friction rate. // For fr=0.08 and q=1000, D ~ 10-12 inches. For fr=0.10 and q=3500, D ~ 18 inches. // This implies a relationship where D increases with Q and decreases with FR. // Simplified Calculation Approach: // We need to find a duct diameter D (in inches) such that the friction rate matches. // A common formula used in HVAC duct sizing software (derived from ASHRAE) relates these: // Pressure Drop per 100ft = K * (Q^1.85 / D^4.87) for round, smooth ducts (Sheet Metal). // K is a constant that depends on air density and viscosity. // Let's use an empirical approximation that works well for common HVAC ranges: // Equivalent Round Duct Diameter (inches) ≈ C * (Q / V_target)^0.375 (where V_target is velocity) // Or, using friction rate directly: // D ≈ Constant * (Q / FR^0.38) (This is a very rough approximation) // A common ductulator approximation is: log(D) = A * log(Q) – B * log(FR) + C // Let's use a more direct iterative or lookup method if possible, or a well-accepted simplified formula. // Based on common ductulator outputs: // If FR = 0.08, CFM = 1000 -> D ~ 10.5″ // If FR = 0.10, CFM = 3500 -> D ~ 17.5″ // A simplified formula that approximates this relationship: var adjustedFrictionRate = fr * materialFactor; // Adjust friction for material var diameterInches = 12 * Math.pow( (q * 100) / (adjustedFrictionRate * 4.6), 0.38); // Empirical approximation // Ensure diameter is within reasonable bounds and not excessively small or large if (diameterInches 60) diameterInches = 60; var equivalentDiameter = diameterInches.toFixed(1); // Calculate Approximate Velocity var ductAreaSqFt = Math.PI * Math.pow(diameterInches / 24, 2); // Diameter in feet var airVelocityFPM = (ductAreaSqFt > 0) ? (q / ductAreaSqFt) : 0; var estimatedVelocity = airVelocityFPM.toFixed(0); // Calculate Total Pressure Drop for the given length var approximateLength = parseFloat(document.getElementById("approximateLengthInput") ? document.getElementById("approximateLengthInput").value : "50"); // Use a default if not provided // Re-add approximateLength input for the calculation var lengthInputGroup = document.querySelector('.loan-calc-container > div:nth-child(1)'); // Assuming length is the first input visually var approxLengthInputExists = document.getElementById("approximateLengthInput"); if (!approxLengthInputExists) { var lengthLabel = document.createElement('label'); lengthLabel.setAttribute('for', 'approximateLengthInput'); lengthLabel.textContent = 'Approximate Duct Run Length (ft)'; var lengthInput = document.createElement('input'); lengthInput.setAttribute('type', 'number'); lengthInput.setAttribute('id', 'approximateLengthInput'); lengthInput.setAttribute('value', '50'); lengthInput.setAttribute('min', '1'); lengthInput.setAttribute('max', '500'); lengthInput.setAttribute('step', '1'); var lengthSmall = document.createElement('small'); lengthSmall.textContent = 'Estimated total length of the duct run being sized.'; var lengthError = document.createElement('div'); lengthError.setAttribute('id', 'approximateLengthInputError'); lengthError.setAttribute('class', 'error-message'); // Find where to insert the new input group var firstInputGroup = document.querySelector('.loan-calc-container > .input-group'); if (firstInputGroup) { firstInputGroup.parentNode.insertBefore(document.createElement('div'), firstInputGroup).innerHTML = `
Estimated total length of the duct run being sized.
`; // Re-apply initial focus for the first input document.getElementById("airflow").focus(); } } var ductLength = parseFloat(document.getElementById("approximateLengthInput").value); var isLengthValid = validateInput(ductLength, "approximateLengthInput", 1, 500, "Duct Run Length"); if (!isLengthValid) { document.getElementById("resultsSection").style.display = 'none'; return; } var totalPressureDrop = (fr * ductLength) / 100; var primaryResultText = totalPressureDrop.toFixed(2) + " in. W.C."; document.getElementById("primary-result").textContent = primaryResultText; document.getElementById("approxLength").textContent = ductLength.toString(); document.getElementById("equivalentDiameter").textContent = equivalentDiameter; document.getElementById("airVelocity").textContent = estimatedVelocity + " FPM"; // Update copy results text var copyResultsDiv = document.getElementById("results-to-copy"); copyResultsDiv.innerHTML = ` HVAC Duct Design Results: Primary Result (Total Pressure Drop): ${primaryResultText} Approximate Duct Length: ${ductLength} ft Equivalent Round Duct Diameter: ${equivalentDiameter} in Estimated Air Velocity: ${estimatedVelocity} FPM Assumptions: Duct Material: ${document.getElementById("ductMaterial").options[document.getElementById("ductMaterial").selectedIndex].text} Desired Friction Rate: ${fr.toFixed(3)} lbs/100ft Required Airflow: ${q} CFM Total System Static Pressure (System Context): ${staticPressure} In. W.C. `; document.getElementById("resultsSection").style.display = 'block'; updateChart(); } function resetCalculator() { document.getElementById("airflow").value = "1000"; document.getElementById("staticPressure").value = "0.5"; document.getElementById("frictionRate").value = "0.08"; document.getElementById("ductMaterial").value = "sheet_metal"; if (document.getElementById("approximateLengthInput")) { document.getElementById("approximateLengthInput").value = "50"; } document.getElementById("airflowError").textContent = ""; document.getElementById("staticPressureError").textContent = ""; document.getElementById("frictionRateError").textContent = ""; document.getElementById("approximateLengthInputError").textContent = ""; document.getElementById("primary-result").textContent = "Calculating…"; document.getElementById("approxLength").textContent = "–"; document.getElementById("equivalentDiameter").textContent = "–"; document.getElementById("airVelocity").textContent = "–"; document.getElementById("resultsSection").style.display = 'none'; if (chartInstance) { chartInstance.destroy(); chartInstance = null; } } function copyResults() { var resultsDiv = document.getElementById("results-to-copy"); var range = document.createRange(); range.selectNode(resultsDiv); window.getSelection().removeAllRanges(); window.getSelection().addRange(range); document.execCommand("copy"); window.getSelection().removeAllRanges(); alert("Results copied to clipboard!"); } function updateChart() { if (!chartInstance) { var ctx = document.getElementById('ductSizingChart').getContext('2d'); var chartData = { labels: ['0.04', '0.06', '0.08', '0.10', '0.12', '0.14', '0.16'], // Friction Rates (in. W.C./100ft) datasets: [{ label: 'Airflow for ~10″ Duct (CFM)', data: [450, 650, 850, 1000, 1150, 1250, 1350], // Example CFM for a 10″ duct at different friction rates borderColor: 'rgb(75, 192, 192)', tension: 0.1, fill: false, pointRadius: 5, pointHoverRadius: 7 }, { label: 'Airflow for ~12″ Duct (CFM)', data: [700, 950, 1250, 1500, 1700, 1850, 2000], // Example CFM for a 12″ duct borderColor: 'rgb(255, 99, 132)', tension: 0.1, fill: false, pointRadius: 5, pointHoverRadius: 7 }] }; chartInstance = new Chart(ctx, { type: 'line', data: chartData, options: { responsive: true, maintainAspectRatio: false, scales: { y: { beginAtZero: true, title: { display: true, text: 'Airflow (CFM)' } }, x: { title: { display: true, text: 'Desired Friction Rate (in. W.C./100ft)' } } }, plugins: { tooltip: { mode: 'index', intersect: false, }, title: { display: true, text: 'Duct Sizing: Airflow vs. Friction Rate for Common Duct Diameters' } }, hover: { mode: 'nearest', intersect: true } } }); } else { // Update existing chart data if needed (e.g., based on selected diameter) // For this simplified chart, we'll just ensure it's redrawn. chartInstance.update(); } } function toggleFaq(element) { var faqItem = element.parentElement; faqItem.classList.toggle('active'); } // Initial calculation on load to populate results and chart window.onload = function() { calculateDuctSizing(); updateChart(); // Initialize chart on load // Add the length input if it doesn't exist after initial calc (it might be inserted dynamically) if (!document.getElementById("approximateLengthInput")) { var lengthLabel = document.createElement('label'); lengthLabel.setAttribute('for', 'approximateLengthInput'); lengthLabel.textContent = 'Approximate Duct Run Length (ft)'; var lengthInput = document.createElement('input'); lengthInput.setAttribute('type', 'number'); lengthInput.setAttribute('id', 'approximateLengthInput'); lengthInput.setAttribute('value', '50'); lengthInput.setAttribute('min', '1'); lengthInput.setAttribute('max', '500'); lengthInput.setAttribute('step', '1'); var lengthSmall = document.createElement('small'); lengthSmall.textContent = 'Estimated total length of the duct run being sized.'; var lengthError = document.createElement('div'); lengthError.setAttribute('id', 'approximateLengthInputError'); lengthError.setAttribute('class', 'error-message'); var newGroup = document.createElement('div'); newGroup.setAttribute('class', 'input-group'); newGroup.appendChild(lengthLabel); newGroup.appendChild(lengthInput); newGroup.appendChild(lengthSmall); newGroup.appendChild(lengthError); var firstInputGroup = document.querySelector('.loan-calc-container > .input-group'); if (firstInputGroup) { firstInputGroup.parentNode.insertBefore(newGroup, firstInputGroup); } } // Re-run calculation after potentially adding the input calculateDuctSizing(); }; // Add event listeners to update inputs in real-time document.getElementById("airflow").addEventListener("input", calculateDuctSizing); document.getElementById("staticPressure").addEventListener("input", calculateDuctSizing); document.getElementById("frictionRate").addEventListener("input", calculateDuctSizing); document.getElementById("ductMaterial").addEventListener("change", calculateDuctSizing); document.addEventListener("input", function(event) { if (event.target && event.target.id === "approximateLengthInput") { calculateDuctSizing(); } });

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