What do ducts typically carry in building systems?

Ducts in building systems are primarily designed to carry air or gas. This includes heated or cooled air in HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, which is crucial for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and ensuring proper ventilation. Ducts facilitate the circulation of air throughout a building, transporting it from the central HVAC unit to various rooms.

In addition to air, ducts can also be used for carrying combustion gases in certain heating systems. The effective design and functionality of ducts are vital for maintaining indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

Other mediums such as water, sewage, or solid waste are typically transported through pipes rather than ducts. Electricity and cables are generally routed through conduits and are not conveyed in ducts designed for airflow. Thus, the use of ducts is specific to air and gas distribution within the building's systems.