Duct Velocity
Calculator

Inputs

Velocity (m/s)
4.195088

Results

Velocity (m/s)
4.195088
Velocity (ft/min)
825.804799
Flow rate (m³/s)
0.377557

HVAC and plumbing results

Velocity (m/s)4.195088
Velocity (ft/min)825.804799
Flow rate (m³/s)0.377557

formula-map diagram

Velocity (m/s)
4.195088
Velocity (ft/min)
825.804799
Flow rate (m³/s)
0.377557

HVAC and plumbing relationship

Formula

v = Q ÷ A

= 4.195088381801

Note

This is a simplified model: it applies a standard engineering formula to the numbers you entered. Conversions between BTU/h and kW use the exact factor 1 kW = 3412.142 BTU/h, but every sizing figure is an estimate. Air conditioner sizing uses the common 20 BTU/h per square foot rule of thumb, not a room-by-room load calculation, and it ignores insulation, glazing, orientation, ceiling height, infiltration and local climate. Heating loads use a single volumetric heat-loss factor in W/m³·K rather than a fabric-by-fabric U-value calculation. Air properties are fixed at 1.2 kg/m³ and water at 1000 kg/m³ and 4186 J/kg·K, with no correction for temperature, altitude or glycol. Duct and pipe results use the ideal continuity equation and ignore fittings, bends, roughness and system effect unless you enter those losses yourself. The Hazen-Williams equation is valid only for water in full turbulent flow at ordinary temperatures. Water hammer uses the Joukowsky surge, an upper bound for instant closure. Tank drainage assumes a prismatic tank and steady free discharge. Hot water recovery and condensate figures ignore standing losses and coil bypass. Size real systems with a proper heat-loss survey and have the work checked by a qualified HVAC or plumbing professional.

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Frequently asked questions

Why does duct velocity matter if the airflow (CFM) stays the same?+

For the same CFM, a smaller duct forces air to move faster, which increases friction, noise, and pressure loss. Keeping velocity within recommended ranges balances efficient airflow against an acceptably quiet, low-resistance system.

What's a typical acceptable velocity range for residential ducts?+

Main supply trunks are often designed for 700-900 feet per minute, while branch ducts serving individual rooms are typically kept lower, around 500-700 feet per minute, to minimize noise near living spaces.

How is velocity related to duct size and CFM?+

Velocity equals CFM divided by the duct's cross-sectional area. If you know the airflow you need and the maximum acceptable velocity, you can work backward to find the minimum duct size required.

What happens if velocity is too high?+

Excessive velocity creates whistling or rushing noise at grilles and registers, increases static pressure the blower has to overcome (raising energy use), and can cause premature wear on duct joints and dampers.

What happens if velocity is too low?+

Very low velocity in horizontal ducts can allow dust and debris to settle inside rather than being carried to the vents, and it may indicate the duct is oversized relative to the airflow, wasting material and installation cost.