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Metal ducts should be supported by what size and gauge metal straps?

  1. 10-gauge galvanized wire

  2. 12-gauge galvanized wire

  3. 16-gauge galvanized wire

  4. 18-gauge metal straps

The correct answer is: 18-gauge metal straps

The appropriate choice regarding the support of metal ducts is based on the necessary balance between strength and flexibility when it comes to ductwork installation and standards. Using 18-gauge metal straps provides sufficient strength to adequately support the ducts while also ensuring that they can be adjusted as necessary for installation and maintenance. Metal ducts typically require support at intervals that prevent sagging or deformation, and the use of 18-gauge straps is a standard practice within the industry. This gauge is robust enough to handle the weight of the ducts without risking structural integrity but is not overly heavy, which could complicate installations and increase costs. In terms of building codes and industry regulations, these principles have been established to ensure safety and reliability in HVAC systems. Stronger options like 10-gauge or 12-gauge wire, while they might offer more rigidity, could be unnecessary and harder to work with in many residential or light commercial applications. Therefore, 18-gauge metal straps strike a suitable compromise between strength, weight, and practicality in supporting metal ducts efficiently.