How to Build A Beautiful Sheet Metal Ductwork Transition. | DIY HVAC GUY

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⚠️ Disclaimer:
This video is for educational purposes. Any and all HVAC repair work is done at your own risk. The DIY HVAC Guy channel is not responsible for any possible damages or injuries caused by the use or misuse of the provided information.

[@paulcernava7091]

17 years of doing this job and I have never seen a window spline tool cross brake. That's just f.n genius. I'm going to use that thank you

[@koleclement9899]

You have never seen that? You must not be a shop guy lol

[@paulcernava7091]

@@koleclement9899 I hope you feel better but a shop guy doesn't work on the floor they use a power break a box break and well I don't have time to list all the different computer operations and high level math but you know that already right or are you still working on the floor

[@koleclement9899]

@@paulcernava7091 I’m smart enough to be prepared., I would always bring a collapsible table at a minimum. I make fittings on site all the time…

[@throngcleaver]

I just recently learned about a hand brake, that uses two tandem wheels, like inline skates. It's made by Hilmor.

[@ihikefar]

I really appreciate you slow walking us through the transition build process. More sheet metal videos please!

[@olliea7805]

As a diy guy this is some great info for me, in the middle of swapping to a natural gas furnace from fuel oil. Only tip I can give you as a siding/window guy is don't close your snips all the way when cutting. The metal won't pucker so you will get cleaner finish and easier tucks. ty

Interesting! I'll keep this in mind for my upcoming project! Thanks for sharing!

[@mickstermouseter7059]

Great video! I bet even an old guy like me can do this after watching your detailed instructions. This would save a lot in labor costs. Thank you!

[@db8823]

You make it look so easy. What's because you're an expert. Very informative. Thanks

[@diyhvacguy]

I appreciate that! Thanks for watching!

Thanks for sharing your knowledge! This kind of stuff is essential for anyone, especially home owners. More importantly, for those of use who simply can't afford a tech to do these things for use and us being able bodied and willing (or those of us simply curious types); the way you walked through the process instills an abundance of confidence and eagerness 💪

[@wadebrink8149]

Good video. Excellent step by step. Using the screen tool for cross breaks is a nice trick. 👌

[@1834RestorationHouse]

As a licensed aircraft sheet metal guy, I want to suggest making your 1/4 inch flange bigger. There isn't much edge distance there and 3/8 or even 1/2 inch would be better for resisting cracks where the screws are.

[@dormindont1]

Полезный совет, спасибо!

[@ODucks55]

As an aircraft mechanic in the Air Force and a current hvac contractor, a 1/4” is plenty. It’s not an aircraft. It’s a furnace in a basement.

[@1834RestorationHouse]

@@ODucks55 Old habits die hard. ;-)

[@ODucks55]

@@1834RestorationHouse 😎

[@keithosterkamp6207]

Great demonstration. Keep the helpful tips coming. I definitely learn something new each time watching your videos. I like how you use what’s at hand and repurpose them as tools. S-channel as a straight edge rather than having to pack in a level or something else for making lines and indentations. I’ve never see a folder like that but I see lots of utility in having one for creating other projects out of galvanized sheets.

[@trueforum378]

Maaan! I love your techncal skills! you are on a way different level. Great work. thank you for making such great videos

[@vinceabbott1271]

You did a great job building the duct work without a break and you did it all on the ground

[@Otis884]

Nice to see how all this is done , thanks .

[@rikardnorlen752]

Really like the simple handy tools you got as the bender!

[@richarddeleon9284]

You explain it quite nicely and makes it easy to understand. Thanks.

[@jensvincent4702]

Glad folks are starting to show alternatives to using a lockformer. Been trying to buy one for awhile, just can’t find one for less than $3000 lol.

[@derrtydungeon]

The window screen tool is genius 👍🏿👍🏿🤩

[@bert1913]

You are an excellent teacher. Thank you for sharing!

[@dianeladico1769]

Thank you for this. I want to build a solar oven and I'd like something more durable than plastic or cardboard. I wanted to use sheet metal but couldn't figure out how to make the bends. This will be perfect. It's off-topic, I know, but a good idea can go a long way.

[@rossflores4394]

Nice work I love this window screen tool trick.👍🏾

[@Keith_Mikell]

Invaluable skill. Many contractors sub this out. Mine was.

[@mandingoteck]

Great video! You are the man. I love the details that you show in your videos.

[@diyhvacguy]

Glad you like them!

[@andrewclemons8619]

You're the best. You're saving me thousands

[@brianmccafferty1470]

I like to see a master craft man at work!

[@ranger178]

I like offset Klenk snips they make nice smooth cuts, and your hand is up above the metal.

[@JosephWett-vw7zp]

Nice video. I’ve made plenty of plenums on the job just this way. If you don’t have the window tool for your cross break, you can use a flat head screwdriver and straight edge and score a cross break. But you should put a scrap piece of cardboard from the furnace packaging under your metal so there is some “give” under it. Hard to get a good screwdriver cross break on the concrete floor.

[@Silky_boi]

I wish I had this video when I started. My helper used to call it the pizza cutter 😅 I eventually upgraded to the Hilmor pocket brake and it was a big upgrade!

[@diyhvacguy]

Yea I just saw that some on qualityhvacr’s channel! I’m totally picking up one of those

[@zekenzy6486]

Great Video. it looks beautiful and nice. Thank you for sharing

[@billmadle1235]

Nice workmanship

[@lightstrongcreations]

Great craftsmanship

[@JosephWett-vw7zp]

Making transitions is easy. I take measurements and have the layout guy at the shop make it. 🤣

[@chatrkat]

Thank you for the nice step by step instructions. I’m going to be replacing my gas furnace this summer, I’m well qualified to do everything except the sheet metal, but I’m now very tempted to try to build the plenum myself. If I don’t end up with a neat professional product, plan B is having my neighbor’s HVAC company produce it. I’d like to do the whole job myself if I can.

[@diyhvacguy]

Awesome! If you need some help during your install, make sure and check out our membership over on Patreon.com/diyhvacguy where you will get one on one help with your install, sizing equipment, and also help with warranty information. Cheers!

[@chatrkat]

@@diyhvacguy great plan, thank you.

[@skidooextreme2233]

I will be installing a new furnace in a 1910 cottage soon, thank you!

[@diyhvacguy]

If you need some help with your install check out our Patreon membership at Patreon.com/diyhvacguy where for $25 you can get one on one support with help during installation, diagnosing, help with purchasing equipment and warranty info. Cheers, Dave

[@abaidaramex2818]

4 years i am doing hvac tech i wish i can make i buy all the time fabrication but the way u explain i think i can doo but self

[@keovongvilaykeo4799]

Always great thanks you showing new things 😊

[@diyhvacguy]

Thanks for watching!

[@mahabubulalamshusom6327]

Masterclass Video❤

[@RC-Heli835]

Awesome job man!

[@jelizarraraz1679]

I thank you for yours videos man great job..

[@gregwhite9723]

Good job buddie. Keep up the good work.

[@callmebackfriday2]

Thanks for showing this step by step, it is not that easy but it is not that bad as long as I can get all the necessary tools and material (Do you think I can get from big box stores) but at least I know how this is done and won't be fool by being charge $$$$ arms and legs on it. Thanks for the video. 👍

[@hollidaydoc45]

Excellent video. Very informative.

[@diyhvacguy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@shopart1488]

Nice clean neat job, thanks!!

[@rajivsaini5713]

Beautiful

[@giantkillin8278]

excellent as always.! thanks for sharing.

[@diyhvacguy]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@generalinfo9999]

Excellent bro

[@rockscratchers2972]

Great video!

[@1thinkhealthy]

Thanks for these videos. Keep them coming. My hands would be cut up doing that without gloves. :)

[@diyhvacguy]

You bet!

[@andresmvc112]

Whenever I make or order a transition I also order some canvas connections. Look into it it makes your life real easy to put in a big ol transition like that

[@diyhvacguy]

Noted. Do you pick them up at your local supply house? And I assume you put them on the top?

[@tredogzs]

The Tool was your BRAIN!

[@diyhvacguy]

🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@ramchillarege1658]

Very nice video. Thank you..

[@fah8600]

Brilliant

[@alexc9777]

great video and topic thank you

[@zorkonthegreat5879]

Great video.

[@KyleRicciardi]

I'd appreciate any channel like this practicing and advocating for the use of personal protective equipment. Sheet metal will filet your hand. Even the most experienced have accidents. Usually completely avoidable with good protection.

[@bulldogmrktr23]

Awesome video friend

[@Rocky1983511]

Thank you 😊

[@user-fy6rr6sz2n]

Well done

[@keiths173]

The best I can finally finish my furnace

[@reydiaz8505]

I finally have some use for that window screen tool again 😂

[@simplelaoguy]

Thanks a millions

[@thomasgould2556]

Nice, Thank you.

[@rafaelrosario7180]

Nice job 😎✊🏻

[@vfz2509]

Grate job

[@gmpinto2]

Practical solution!

[@paulharvey7193]

Thanks!

[@sebausa1]

Awesome

[@daveyt4802]

Good stuff! Hopefully you can find the same size furnace for replacement!

[@ramanjosan1442]

thank you sir

[@nicklavore9841]

Love what your doing on this Chanel man keep to info coming! I can’t see myself getting thru this process without slicing myself. Has that ever been an issue for you?

[@diyhvacguy]

I’ve nicked myself a hand full of times, but it’s not super common for me. I should wear gloves more often though. Thanks for the kind words btw 🙏🏻

[@dr2man]

Just watched this video, and learned a lot you do a good job explaining things. Would you happen to have a similar video showing a high-efficiency install with the A coil for the AC?

[@diyhvacguy]

Yes plenty under my air conditioning installation playlist 👍🏼 cheers

[@stanleyzabicki1291]

You should put a canvas connection at the top before making the transition. Eliminates transfer of furnace noise to duct.

[@JohnSmith-qj7hd]

Only allowed on returns by code here

[@johnbogenhagen7609]

Literally everything was good except for the very end when you tried to hide the fact that you had to drop that s-cleat 3/4 of an inch to fit good enough. Covered that ish up real quick with tape😂😂😂 I'm just talking shit tho tbh. Very useful video overall thunbs up and I didn't know that about the window tool great idea. Fk around n do a triple break by hand not time thanks dude

[@wxfield]

Braking, Cutting goes a lot easier once you own a small, portable sheet metal brake. A friend of mine left a metal sliver behind once and it got into a toddler's foot. Boy did he catch hell for that.

[@diyhvacguy]

I bet! Geez

[@wxfield]

@@Kevin-mp5of Yeah. My friend been doing this work for 30+ years. He took all the precautions and there was some question as to if the metal was even from his duct work or not given there were other subs on that job site. Irrespective of how to keep the work site clean..shit happens...and it's not always something you have control over. Outside is always the best place to be when cutting metal however...even still, someone can track in a shard that you didn't see..then it's hell-to-pay all over again.

[@wxfield]

@@Kevin-mp5of God bless you Kevin..brought a smile to my face. My Dad used to say that to me when I was down "Boy, you can't win for love or money can you?".

[@utubebp1]

Very glad to find your instructive videos. Thank you. My home has a Rheem downflow furnace and there is no filter rack above the blower housing compartment.. I would like to make one in the plemum box. Make a U channel out of 4" strip of sheet metal. Do I need to leave space between the blower housing or can it be immediately above the blower? Rheem manual says filter is inserted above the blower via the blower compartment door. I saw a video showing an opening (1.25") is made to insert the 1" filter. Thank you in advance for your comments on what I plan to do.

[@diyhvacguy]

You can go directly to the furnace, you can also pick up a filter rack to make that super easy. If you need more help, check out our $25 membership at Patreon.com/diyhvacguy where you’ll get one on one support with anything hvac. Cheers

[@waynewilce981]

Really good video!

[@PsiFire1]

I LOVE being able to use a tool for multiple purposes so the use of the screening tool is awesome. Any suggestions for fixing "oil canning" in my duct work? It's hard/impossible to get to the inside because of the AC evaporator frame. :(

[@hosocat1410]

Do you ever use electric shears or nibblers or drill attachment cutters? I'd like to see a video of pluses and minuses of different types and which ones you prefer. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and tips!

[@diyhvacguy]

Yes I use the malco turbo sheers all the time 👍🏼 dewalt makes a pretty rad one as well

[@Matts_Crafty]

Great video! I wish I had $1 for every time I dropped a screw into a blower or inducer assembly 😂

[@ikidd3123]

Ductwork without gloves on, that's brave.

[@steventrott8714]

I would have half a dozen cuts from this job!

[@terrytuepah171]

Ok a few little things to make this install even better. Use water proof duct sealer not tape( over time the tape dries out and just falls off) much better and easier to do also. The tabs around the top furnace opening are to be bent up on a 90* giving you a lip to screw the plenum too that’s why there perferated to make it easier to bend up. I have been doing HVAC work for 35 years and your install is better that 95% of the work I see done out in the field. Most installers can’t do tin work worth a dam.

[@terrytuepah171]

Another thing I wondered about was no dirt pocket on the gas line? It’s code to have an appliance dirt pocket on gas lines in Ontario

[@sn3495]

👉💯👈

[@sn3495]

The guy is young too... just think what he will become in 20 years... very impressive... especially in comparison to grab and run people in this business...

[@apple5pdx]

I agree with Terry-the paint on ductseal is easier, lasts longer and is WAY cheaper.

[@diyhvacguy]

Thank you guys so much! You have no idea how much that means to me. Thanks for the tips! I normally use Pookie but mine froze in my truck because it go so cold 🥶 this gas line had a huge dirt trap, not sure how visible it was but no debris was going to make it past that and the flex line. Thanks again for the tips! Cheers all

[@atj226]

Have you made any videos for building a transition for a downdraft furnace? I'm having difficulty putting in a filter pocket.

[@user-di4bt7qu2i]

This video makes me want to tear out my existing ducting and rebuild it myself. Of course, I won't because the boss (wife) would frown upon this.

[@mikewest5748]

Looks good but why not tape all the way around or use caulk at the corners top and bottom to seal the air gaps anyway good job great video

[@ar2043]

Now show us how to wrap it with R-8 FSK! Pretty please? 😂😂😂

[@tycurtin7565]

When do you tape on the inside of the plenum versus using pookee?

[@ddlago]

When you go from a 21 -17.5 furnace how much airflow do you lose especially on the ac as the evaporator is smaller- is there a formula for it ?

[@ricosuave-ej5cs]

Future furnace change out guy "Nice just take the s and drive off the transition pop it off easy!?. WTF! they screwed it from the inside!!"😂

[@leonardkellum6984]

Where do you suggest I get the metal and edge strips online and how to find it locally? thanks

[@christophernalbone6299]

Can you tell me what gauge sheet metal you use? Thanks ,very good videos.

[@diyhvacguy]

I believe 26ga

[@ReliableHVACR]

I knew it from the title 😂 I've seen a pizza cutter work as well

[@diyhvacguy]

🤣 I just saw Qualityhvacr’s video and he used a hilmor roller tool! Pretty slick

[@ReliableHVACR]

@@diyhvacguy oh yeah I saw that at least year's ahr, they had a speed competition or something with it

[@Matthew-jt3hs]

Will this method work on fiberglass duct board?

[@kevinberry7076]

Where do get the insulation that is used on the inside for attic installs?

[@Chey_3]

Hey bud, I want to know what is the site you use to buy furnace at. I need to replace mine and I wanted to compare prices. I appreciate if you can share the website at. I had previously watch your others video you made where you spoke about not letting people ripped u off from companies. I thank you for sharing your info to others and the knowledge you give to us viewers. THANKS

[@diyhvacguy]

If you want to email me at [e-mail] I’m happy to help you locate the right furnace for you 👍🏼

[@tigerz4487]

beautiful work , but no insulation needed inside ?

[@diyhvacguy]

Nope, I’ve actually only seen one system here in Utah that was insulated.

[@patmadix172]

I use s-lock for folding

[@diyhvacguy]

Yes I’ve done that a time or too but I prefer the larger bender tool as you have more to grab into and the thicker gauge steel

[@AmericanFarmerHVAC2024]

Nothing wrong with old fashioned hand tools.

[@jvsmeds]

Flexible gas connectors are illegal in my state for use on furnaces.

[@wilymcgee]

does this get insulated? i live in south texas... and we've got humidity, not as bad as FL.... but there's a lot of enthalpy in the air...

[@BillyIsSilly22]

I would use ductboard in Texas, but you can line metal duct with insulation liner

[@R3sp3ct801]

Hey Dave, I too live in Utah and I'm doing a big home addition so I'm going to be upgrading my furnace and AC. Have you been happy with Goodman furnaces and AC units? And do you buy them locally or online Thanks Austin

[@diyhvacguy]

Hey! Shoot me an email at [e-mail] and I’m happy to help you out. Cheers, Dave

[@Superheat]

Goodman is a great brand, been putting them in for over 25 years. They also have a great warranty. Goodman also makes Amana brand, it would be there Lexus of the Toyota. You can’t go wrong with either.

[@usahoangsatruongsa]

Goodman ??@@Superheat

[@gsmboutiqueable]

You win a new subscriber, buddy. Thanks for your videos, really helpful for the beginners l8ke me!!!

[@diyhvacguy]

Welcome aboard! Thanks for watching and supporting!

[@mohammadel-mohammadi5666]

Hello! I just bought a two floor house that has a steam heating system with radiators. Is it possible to replace it with an electric gas or forced air system? And how much do you think it would cost me to do so? It's almost 1500 sqft. Thank you!

[@diyhvacguy]

Hello there. For support with sizing, ordering equipment, warranty, etc, check out our Patreon membership at Patreon.com/diyhvac It’s money well spent! Cheers