The ducting you choose determines airflow performance, and the accessories you select ensure durability, airtightness and long-term efficiency. As a trusted UK supplier of ventilation and ducting products, we focus on providing high-quality, installer-friendly solutions that help you achieve optimal airflow with confidence.

This guide walks you through everything we offer—from flexible ducting to ventilation accessories—and explains exactly how each type of ducting supports a smoother, safer and more efficient ventilation setup. With all the additional information you need to know before you make a purchase.

Buyer’s Guide to Flexible Ducting & Ventilation Accessories

When it comes to creating safe, efficient and comfortable indoor environments, choosing the right ducting and ventilation accessories makes all the difference. Whether you’re installing a domestic ventilation system, upgrading a commercial HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) setup, or working on a specialised application like hydroponics, having the right components ensures optimal airflow, reduced energy wastage, and long-term performance.

The UK’s most trusted source of solutions for air ventilation, we at FlexibleDucting.com offer a full range of high-quality flexible ducting and ventilation accessories designed to make ducting installation easier, improve system efficiency, and deliver consistent airflow in any environment.

Why Flexible Ducting Is More Efficient Than Rigid Duct Pipe?

1. Flexible Ducting: Adaptable, Fast & Installer-Friendly

Flexible ducting is often more efficient for installation and ventilation setups because it bends easily, compresses, and adapts to tight spaces—reducing labour time and installation cost.

Why Flexible Ducting Is Considered Efficient:

• Easy to route around corners, beams, obstacles and confined areas.
• Faster installation compared to cutting and joining rigid pipe.
• Lightweight and compact for transport and handling.
• Compatible with most fans and vents using standard connectors.
• Ideal for short runs where airflow resistance is minimal.
• Multiple specialist options available – choose from insulated, acoustic, aluminium, and hydroponic.

2. Rigid Duct Pipe: Best for Long Runs, but Less Flexible

Rigid ducting is strong and offers lower airflow resistance over long, straight runs, but it is less adaptable and requires more fittings.

Limitations Compared to Flexible Ducting:

• Cannot bend naturally – every turn requires a connector or elbow.
• More installation time and more joins.
• Less forgiving in irregular spaces.
• More complex and costly to fit in retrofits or tight ceiling voids.

Types of Flexible Ducting Options We Offer

Built for versatility, efficiency and long-term performance, flexible ducting is used across thousands of applications—from domestic ventilation to large-scale HVAC systems. The right ducting ensures optimal airflow, reduces noise, prevents heat loss and supports easy installation. 

Below is a breakdown of the full range we offer in ducting, including user needs, performance benefits and ideal applications.

1. Insulated Flexible Ducting

Insulated ducting is designed to control temperature and prevent condensation, making it an excellent choice for areas exposed to fluctuating temperatures or cold drafts. Most users choose insulated flexible ducting because it can withstand significant temperature differences between inside and outside the duct, which, untreated, can cause condensation, mould growth, and heat loss. With insulated ducting, you eliminate this risk and reduce repair and maintenance costs, as well as your heating bills.

Additionally, it's best for HVAC systems, MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) units, attic installations, and commercial buildings, making it reliable and effective for ideal airflow with reduced sound.

Key Benefits

• Reduces heat loss & improves energy efficiency
• Minimises condensation build-up
• Provides additional noise reduction
• Ideal for cold lofts and unheated areas

2. Combination Flexible Ducting

If you are looking for a strong, heavy-duty option built with multiple layers for added airflow, then combination ducting is the best choice. Its durability and flexibility make it suitable for systems such as commercial HVAC and industrial extraction setups, as well as for demanding environments where ducting may experience movement or higher pressure. It is made from a multi-layer construction that is resistant to vibration and prevents tearing, resulting in lower maintenance costs and long-lasting performance.

Key Benefits

• Multi-layer construction prevents tearing
• Withstands higher pressures
• Resistant to vibration
• Long-lasting performance

3. Aluminium Flexible Ducting

Aluminium flexible ducting is one of the most popular ducting choices due to its versatility and high heat resistance. It is lightweight, easy to install and suitable for most domestic and commercial ventilation tasks. Kitchen extraction units, bathroom fans, cooker hoods, and general ventilation systems are perfect for aluminium flexible ducting as it blends with the space and provides easy airflow.

Key Benefits

• Highly heat-resistant
• Very cost-effective
• Quick, simple installation
• Excellent flexibility

4. PVC Flexible Ducting

PVC ducting has a smooth internal surface and therefore provides a quieter performance than other metal alternatives. It is flexible, corrosion-proof and ideal for low-pressure applications. Much like aluminium flexible ducting, it is suitable for kitchen extraction units, bathroom fans, cooker hoods, and general ventilation systems, providing easy, quiet, and versatile airflow.

Key Benefits

• Quieter airflow compared to metal ducting
• Corrosion-resistant and long-lasting
• Suitable for tight or awkward spaces
• Smooth interior minimises friction.

4. Hydroponic Flexible Ducting

This flexible ducting type is specially designed to support grow tents, carbon filters and climate-controlled grow rooms. Hydroponic environments require consistently controlled airflow and humidity—this ducting hose is built to handle those extreme conditions. Hydroponic flexible ducting improves the environment in grow rooms, greenhouses, and hydroponic climate systems, making them more reliable and breathable.

Key Benefits

• High humidity resistance
• Supports odour filtration setups
• Optional lightproof and insulated varieties
• Ideal for inline extraction fans

5. Acoustic Flexible Ducting

Acoustic flexible ducting is perfect for reducing system noise and airflow vibration. If you’re installing ventilation in bedrooms, offices, or living spaces, or in any commercial space, noise reduction becomes a priority. Acoustic ducting is engineered for quiet performance and is best suited for MVHR units, domestic ventilation systems, office buildings, studios, and other calm environments.

Key Benefits

• Reduces fan and airflow noise
• Minimises vibration
• Maintains smooth airflow
• Has added insulation properties

6. Semi-Rigid Flexible Ducting

A hybrid ducting solution that offers the flexibility of semi-rigid ducting with the rigidity of rigid ducting, semi-rigid ducting holds its shape, offers low airflow resistance, and meets strict building regulations for many ventilation systems. It's ideal for heat recovery systems (MVHR), high-performance ventilation, and industrial applications that require regulatory compliance for smooth airflow.

Key Benefits

• Shape-retaining structure
• Superior airflow performance
• Highly durable
• Fire-rated options available

7. Duct Wrap

The final step in many projects is to improve insulation and protect the ducting, for which duct wrap enhances energy efficiency and prevents heat transfer, mainly in commercial environments and in exposed areas such as commercial HVAC systems, industrial settings, and exposed duct runs.

Key Benefits

• Reduces heat loss and gain
• Minimises condensation
• Suitable for all duct types
• Improves energy efficiency

Ventilation Accessories We Provide & Their Importance

Ventilation accessories often go unnoticed, but they play one of the most critical roles in any system: ensuring your ducting performs as it should. When these components are chosen correctly, you avoid excessive air loss, noise issues, energy wastage and long-term maintenance problems.

Suppose you are trying to solve problems such as air leaks, poor airflow, draughts, noise from ventilation systems, difficulty balancing air across rooms, or concerns about condensation and heat loss. In that case, our accessory range is designed to eliminate those issues at the source.

With precision-engineered components that deliver smooth, efficient airflow, our accessories support the installation, sealing, regulation, and finishing of any ventilation or HVAC system. Each product category is designed to solve a specific user problem—whether it’s preventing leakage, controlling air direction, or making maintenance easier.

1. Ducting Clips, Tape & Gaskets

These are the foundations of a secure ventilation system. Even the best ducting underperforms if the connections are loose or poorly sealed. If there is damage, a significant portion of airflow could be lost through poorly sealed joints. Using proper clips and gaskets reduces leakage, improves air pressure, and keeps your system running efficiently for years.

Furthermore, they are ideal for domestic installers, commercial HVAC professionals, or anyone aiming for a clean and airtight finish.

Key Benefits

• Creates strong, long-lasting duct connections
• Prevents air loss and energy inefficiency
• Compatible with both rigid and flexible ducting
• Simple, quick installation

2. Grilles & Louvres

Grilles and louvres shape the final appearance and performance of your ventilation system. They control how air enters or leaves a space while offering a clean, modern look. A grille that’s incorrectly sized or poorly fitted results in noisy airflow, dust build-up, and inconsistent air distribution. So, by using our range, designed with functionality and aesthetics in mind, ventilation will be smooth and suitable for homes, offices, commercial buildings, and any project where both appearance and airflow matter.

Key Benefits

• Enhances airflow direction and distribution
• Prevents debris and pests from entering the system
• Available for walls, ceilings and floors
• Wide style options to match the interior

3. Diffusers & Dampers

Diffusers and dampers help you precisely manage airflow for maximum comfort. These ducting accessories don’t just move air—they control it. Diffusers evenly distribute airflow, while dampers let you regulate or restrict airflow to specific rooms. They are highly suitable for multi-room ventilation systems, commercial HVAC setups and any installation requiring adjustable airflow.

Key Benefits

• Enables balanced airflow across multiple rooms
• Ideal for temperature control and comfort
• Reduces noise from high-velocity airflow
• Helps maintain consistent pressure within the system

4. Air Valves

Air valves are simple, effective, and frequently used in domestic ventilation. They allow adjustable airflow and provide a clean finish. A well-designed valve improves airflow performance and helps you fine-tune ventilation without technical adjustments. These are suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms and general domestic extraction.

Key Benefits

• Easy manual adjustment
• Sleek, modern appearance
• Suitable for walls and ceilings
• Minimal maintenance needed

5. Draught Shutters

A small component that solves a significant problem—preventing cold backdrafts. Without a draught shutter, external wind pressure can push frigid air back into your property. This increases heating bills and makes the ventilation system noisy and inefficient. It is best suited for homes and commercial spaces as they are exposed to outdoor elements.

Key Benefits

• Prevents unwanted reverse airflow
• Energy-saving and weather-resistant
• Supports quieter ventilation
• Easy to install along existing ducting

6. Curved Access Doors

Access doors make future maintenance faster and easier. Ventilation systems require occasional inspection and cleaning. Without proper access, repairs become costly and time-consuming. Installers and maintenance teams working on large or complex ventilation systems often choose the curved access doors.

Key Benefits

• Allows quick internal duct access
• Reduces system downtime during maintenance
• Designed to fit curved or flexible ducts
• Durable and long-lasting

Why Choose FlexibleDucting.com?

We supply high-quality ducting and ventilation products designed to solve real-world airflow challenges. Whether you're an installer, homeowner or contractor, we ensure you have access to:

• Premium materials and certified products
• Durable, reliable performance
• A full range for any installation type
• Fast delivery
• Support from experts

A Quick Shopping Guide To Choose From

Usage	Recommended Ducting Type	Key Benefits
Cold or uninsulated areas	Insulated Ducting	Prevents condensation, stops heat loss, and maintains airflow temperature.
Quiet rooms (bedrooms, offices, meeting areas)	Acoustic Ducting	Reduces airflow noise using a sound-absorbing internal layer.
Grow rooms & hydroponics	Hydroponic Ducting	Handles humidity, removes heat efficiently, and prevents odour leakage.
High durability or demanding environments	Combination or Semi-Rigid Ducting	Strong, long-lasting, crush-resistant, and suitable for higher-pressure systems.
General domestic extraction (kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms)	Aluminium or PVC Ducting	Lightweight, easy to install, and ideal for short, standard ventilation runs.

Our goal is simple: to make your ventilation system work better, last longer, and perform efficiently—every single day. Shop Now!

Difference: With Duct Use vs Without Duct Use

1. With Ducting: Controlled, Reliable air movement

When a ventilation system uses proper ducting, air is guided through a defined pathway. Ducting allows the system to move air efficiently, whilst maintaining pressure and delivering clean, consistent airflow to the rooms or equipment that need it.

Key Advantages of Using Ducting:

• Directed airflow – Air travels exactly where it’s intended to go.
• Improved ventilation performance – Better extraction and supply rates.
• Reduced energy waste – The fan doesn’t work as hard to push air.
• Cleaner environment – Prevents dust, moisture and contaminants from leaking into spaces.
• Noise reduction – Ducting absorbs and smooths airflow, reducing sound.
• Safety & compliance – Meets HVAC building standards and fire-rated requirements when applicable.

2. Without Ducting: Poor Efficiency & Air Loss

A ventilation system without ductwork lacks a defined path for air to follow. This causes leaks, pressure drops, and reduced airflow where it’s actually needed.

Issues Without Ducting:

• Air escapes into unwanted spaces such as lofts or voids.
• Reduced fan performance due to pressure loss.
• Inefficient moisture removal in kitchens, bathrooms or industrial areas.
• Inconsistent air quality across a building.
• Risk of condensation and mould from trapped humid air.

FAQ’s

1. Where should the ducting be installed?

Choose ducting based on the space. Tight areas like lofts and ceiling voids suit flexible or insulated ducting. Grow rooms work best with aluminium or insulated ducting, while offices benefit from acoustic or semi-rigid options for quieter airflow.

2. What size ducting should I use?

Most domestic systems use 100mm or 125mm, while commercial spaces may require 150mm–315mm, depending on airflow needs.

3. Is noise reduction necessary?

If noise matters, choose acoustic flexible ducting. It absorbs additional sound caused by airflow and is ideal for bedrooms or offices. Rigid ducting also helps to reduce noise on long, straight runs.

4. Are “ducting”, “ducting hose” and “ducting pipe” the same thing?

Not exactly. “Ducting” is the general term for any air-movement tube, while “ducting hose” refers to flexible ducting and “ducting pipe” refers to rigid ducting.

5. Do I need insulated ducting?

Choose insulated ducting if your ducting passes through cold spaces, or when you want to reduce noise and condensation.

6. Why does it matter whether I choose flexible or rigid ducting?

The type you choose affects airflow, noise, installation difficulty and system performance. Rigid pipes provide better efficiency, while flexible hoses offer convenience and adaptability. Choosing the right one ensures your fan or system works as you need it to.

7. Is aluminium ducting better than PVC?

Aluminium is heat-resistant, while PVC is quieter and more flexible. Both have their benefits, so the right choice depends on where it’s being installed.

8. Can I mix different types of ducting?

Yes, but ensure all connections are correctly sealed with clips, gaskets, and tape to prevent air leakage.

9. Which option is better for home extractor fans—hose or pipe?

Flexible ducting hose is usually easier for short domestic runs. However, rigid pipe improves airflow efficiency, especially over longer distances. Many homeowners use a mix of both.

10. Is a ducting hose strong enough for commercial or industrial use?

Yes—depending on the material. Aluminium, thermoplastic and reinforced flexible hoses are commonly used in commercial kitchens, extraction units and workshops. The key is choosing the right grade for your airflow and temperature requirements.

Summary

Choosing the right ducting is essential for ensuring efficient, reliable and long-lasting ventilation performance. Whether you’re working in a loft, grow room, office or commercial space, selecting the correct type of flexible ducting directly impacts airflow, noise levels and overall system effectiveness. Understanding the difference between ducting, ducting hoses, and ducting pipes helps you match the right product to your installation needs. With the right combination of materials and accessories, your ventilation system will run more smoothly, quietly, and efficiently, delivering better air quality and long-term durability in any environment.

If you have any queries about the product or would like to learn more, please feel free to reach out to us at sales@flexibleducting.com or contact us on 0117 330 2277.