[mwalls963]

I am reworking my hvac return, routing front crawl space where the unit is, to the attic where I would like to run all my returns to each individual room by dropping each in the ceiling. I have a 5 ton heat pump/ac system. I plan to run 2 20x20 return ducts from the crawl space to the attic. I would like to know it it is ok to box in a section of my utility room using sheet rock material to box it is, instead of using metal duct work?

 

[handyman_20772]

I am reworking my hvac return, routing front crawl space where the unit is, to the attic where I would like to run all my returns to each individual room by dropping each in the ceiling. I have a 5 ton heat pump/ac system. I plan to run 2 20x20 return ducts from the crawl space to the attic. I would like to know it it is ok to box in a section of my utility room using sheet rock material to box it is, instead of using metal duct work?

Duct work, including returns shouldn't be in any unconditioned space (attic or crawl space). But if you are gonna construct one use metal and properly seal all your joints and insulate it as well. Drywall can be used to surround the metal return, but I would never use it as a return.