HVAC Ductwork Calculator

Use our free HVAC Ductwork Calculator to quickly estimate duct size and airflow, based on key inputs like CFM, air velocity, and friction loss. Perfect for HVAC contractors, engineers, and builders.

HVAC Ductwork Formula

Duct Area (sq in) = CFM ÷ Velocity For Round Duct: Diameter = √[(4 × Area) ÷ π] For Rectangular Duct: Width × Height = Area (with aspect ratio applied)
Example:
Airflow = 1,200 CFM; Velocity = 700 FPM Duct Area = 1,200 ÷ 700 = 1.71 sq ft = 246 sq in Round Duct Diameter = √[(4 × 246) ÷ 3.1416] ≈ 17.7 in (round up to 18")

Correct duct sizing ensures proper airflow, energy efficiency, and comfort. Oversized ducts waste money, while undersized ducts create noise and inefficiency.

How this HVAC ductwork calculator works

This calculator uses airflow (CFM), velocity, and friction loss inputs to determine duct dimensions. It applies standard ASHRAE and SMACNA formulas to ensure safe, code-compliant duct sizing for residential and commercial HVAC systems.

When to use this HVAC ductwork calculator

Designing new ductwork layouts for residential or commercial projects

Verifying airflow balance in existing systems

Estimating material needs for duct installation

Comparing round vs. rectangular duct dimensions

Planning energy-efficient HVAC system designs

Want to make your HVAC duct projects smarter?

Use ServiceAgent.ai to automate duct sizing, estimates, proposals, and profitability tracking—all from one dashboard.

Book a Free Demo
ServiceAgent ROI Calculator

Average Profit Margins by Industry

Understand how HVAC ductwork compares to other service industries. Below are typical net margin ranges:

HVAC Contractors

10–20% net margin
net margin

Ductwork Fabricators

15–25% net margin
net margin

Electrical Contractors

15–25% net margin
net margin

Plumbing Contractors

20–35% net margin
net margin

Roofing Contractors

20–40% net margin
net margin

Cleaning Services

50–70% net margin
net margin

Lawn Care

40–60% net margin
net margin

General Construction/Contracting

15–30% net margin
net margin

These benchmarks help HVAC professionals assess whether ductwork project costs are competitive and profitable.

Frequently Asked Questions

It provides reliable estimates using industry formulas. Always verify final designs with ASHRAE/SMACNA standards.

Airflow (CFM), velocity limits, duct shape, and friction loss.

Yes—results are provided for both shapes.

Absolutely. It works for homes, offices, and large buildings.

Indirectly via velocity and friction loss inputs. For precise analysis, use a duct design program.

Yes—larger ducts lower velocity and reduce noise but increase cost.

No—it only calculates duct dimensions. Pair with a cost calculator for full estimates.

Pair it with ServiceAgent.ai to generate automated ductwork layouts, estimates, and project reports.