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Responses to Your TechZone Questions!
1. Does a typical job require more slot diffusers than standard 2’ x 2’s?
Some customers have commented for example that in a 10,000 sq ft area a total of
60 linear diffusers versus 23 lay-in louvered outlets may be required. While this may
be correct for a 1 or 2 slot linear diffuser, it is not for a 3 or 4 slot diffuser. In fact,
with the 4 slot 48” diffuser, you should have equal or better performance and up to a
10% less NC (measure of air loudness as it goes through a boot) with the same
number of outlets. For the 60” model, the results will be even better. We can provide
a comparison from Carnes that illustrates this example.
2. Are linear diffusers more expensive? What are their benefits?
Linear diffusers will cost more when compared to standard louvered lay-in diffusers.
This is not, however, an apples-to-apples comparison. Linear diffusers have many
advantages over standard lay-in diffusers. Here are just a few:
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Aesthetic value. Quite simply, linear diffusers look much nicer.
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Adjustability and versatility. The 2’ x 2’ lay in diffuser has, depending on
model, minimal adjustability for air flow. For more adjustability of the louvered,
stamped diffuser you would need to add a volume control. This will cost more
and add labor to the product. The linear diffuser has pattern controls that allow
for total adjustment of the amount of air flow, the direction of flow and any
combination of the two. This is accomplished without a damper being used.
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Finishes. Stamped louvered diffusers are made from either flat steel or
aluminum. Carnes can paint custom colors, but that is it. In comparison, linear
diffusers are made from extruded aluminum and can be custom painted as well
as anodized in a number of colors.
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Insulation. The plenum on linear diffusers has optional insulation for reduced
moisture condensation on surfaces, as well as dampened sound qualities.
Standard louvered lay-in diffusers do not have insulation and there would be an
added cost to have this included.
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Ease of balancing. We have been told that the system is easier to balance with
linear diffusers than with stamped lay-in diffuser. Easier to balance equals less
time taken to balance equals less cost to balance the system.
3. Do linear diffusers cost more to install?
Carne’s Armstrong TechZone compatible diffusers come with a factory installed
plenum as a default. Because of this, all that’s required to install either 2’x 2’ or slot
diffusers as part of the TechZone offer is remove the packaging, lay it into the
ceiling, and attach the flex duct. It should take no longer to install a linear diffuser
than a louvered 2’ x 2’ diffuser.