Poor HVAC airflow can affect all aspects of your cooling and heating system. For consistent indoor temperature control to affordable monthly operating costs to healthy indoor air quality, the volume of air flowing through the system is a critical specification that must be maintained. If airflow drops below specs, professional service is often required to troubleshoot and repair the issue.
Here are some scenarios where resolving poor HVAC airflow is critical to restore comfort and efficiency:
Dirty air filter.
This one’s an easy DIY task: Make sure your HVAC air filter is clean and not dirty or clogged. Change the filter monthly during air conditioning season and every other month during the heating season.
Closed vents.
Make sure all HVAC supply and return vents in every room are fully open and not blocked by objects like furniture or curtains. Avoid closing supply vents in unused rooms. Closing individual vents can unbalance airflow throughout the entire system, leading to insufficient temperature control in certain rooms.
Leaking ductwork.
As years pass, residential HVAC ducts often develop leaks at joints and other spots in the system. Cooled or heated airflow escapes through these leaks into unconditioned zones like the crawl space, attic or inside wall cavities. Evaluating and pinpointing duct leakage requires professional testing and specialized sealing methods to restore proper airflow.
Defective dampers.
Located inside the ductwork, small damper doors adjust airflow into smaller branch ducts leading to individual rooms. Over time, dampers sometimes loosen and partially close, restricting airflow into branch ducts. Locating and accessing internal dampers for repair requires a qualified HVAC technician.
Blower issues.
Conditioned air is drawn through the ductwork by the system blower installed in the indoor air handler. Blower issues that may reduce airflow throughout the house include a defective blower motor, loose drive belt or other failing components. Professional service is required to troubleshooting and repair HVAC blower problems.
Poor HVAC airflow requires prompt qualified service to restore full system function and efficiency. Contact the pros at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning for more information.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area