HVAC systems require proper HVAC airflow to ensure your system’s heating and cooling performance is in tiptop shape. Conditioned air’s movement rate is at around 1,000 cubic feet/minute on average. It travels through filters, ducts, and vents. If your system is working as expected, you can be sure to receive benefits such as high energy efficiency, balanced temperatures, low operating costs, and long-lasting components. Unfortunately, many homes experience HVAC airflow problems that lead to uncomfortable homes. For instance, you might have uneven temperatures where one area feels cold while the other is warm.
The Importance Of HVAC Airflow
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Here are a few of the causes behind the airflow issues you might be experiencing in your home:
Restrictive HVAC Filters
Air filters are needed to enhance your home’s indoor air quality and prevent your system from getting damaged. They trap dirt, dust, tobacco smoke, carpet fibers, bacteria, mold spores, and other contaminants. Filters protect your family’s health. However, they can only be used for a certain period. This is because they can get dirty and clog, restricting the air from flowing properly into the system. Filters need to be replaced every few months to keep this from happening. Keep in mind that some homes need to have an HVAC filter replacement more frequently. It is recommended to check it every 30 days and replace it when needed.
The system should be able to handle the filter. You might switch to filters with a high MERV rating to enhance your home’s indoor air quality. These are better in trapping airborne contaminants. However, they can restrict the airflow, so the fan speed needs to be adjusted to cope. Bear in mind that several high-efficiency filters need to be replaced more frequently.
Leaking HVAC Ducts
The ductwork can develop cracks and holes as time passes. This can be because of several reasons, like incorrect installation, poor quality materials, excess air pressure, and pest infestation. Studies state that around one-third to one-half of the total ducts in most homes have a leak. This can be a problem, especially for the farthest rooms from the heating system. The hot air might not reach them, leaving the occupants of these rooms feeling cold during the winter. You can put the settings as high as possible, but these rooms would still remain cold. It is a must to find and seal the HVAC air duct leaks first. Hire a professional to help you do this task right away.
Blocked HVAC Vents
If a room in your home doesn’t seem to achieve the temperatures you want, no matter how much you adjust the settings, check the vents connected to that area. A piece of furniture, a thick curtain, or even a plant could be blocking the HVAC air vents. The grates might have been closed by someone from your household and forgot to open it again. Remove any obstructions and open the grates. See if this will improve the situation in the room. If it doesn’t, check the other causes listed in this article.
Closed Damper Valve
HVAC systems allow you to regulate the airflow via the damper valves. This component will enable you to decrease or increase the airflow in various zones in your home. For example, closing them means that a room won’t receive hot or cold air from your system. They can be controlled manually or automatically, depending on the thermostat’s programming. Find the manual dampers and check if their positions are correct. Use the lever if adjustments are needed. If the automatic dampers are faulty, have an HVAC technician help you look into the electrical system.
Flattened Flex Duct
Air ducts are made of different materials. Most use thick metal to ensure that they are durable. Others utilize flexible plastic for bends. Plastic ducts offer many advantages. However, they are easily damaged. You might accidentally step on a flex duct and crush it. Once it flattens, air cannot pass through it properly anymore. If it is easily accessible, you can attempt to get the shape of the duct back to how it was originally. If there are cracks and holes, have a professional replace them immediately.
Incorrect Ductwork Size
HVAC systems consist of complex parts working together to achieve the desired ambient temperature in your home. If there are incompatible parts, problems will arise. For instance, you might have oversized ducts. This could cause low pressure that doesn’t allow air to get to the farthest sections of the house. Having ducts that are too small is just as bad as it will restrict airflow. Ensure that an experienced HVAC professional designs and install your ductwork. This way, you can be sure that they use scientific analysis to determine your household’s needs.
Inadequate Return Air Vents
Air from your HVAC system traveling to different corners of your home must come back. After all, it is a closed-loop system, and the cycle is needed for it to work as expected. If there is insufficient air returning, some rooms in your home will end up with reduced airflow and increased air pressure. If a design flaw causes this, a new HVAC contractor must fix the problem. There could be malfunctioning return vents that need to be repaired by a professional right away.
Conclusion
Proper and sufficient airflow is essential if you want your system to work optimally. If you notice temperature imbalances and feel discomfort around your home, it could be because of poor airflow. Contact your local, trusted technician to diagnose and repair the situation. They will remove all hindrances so that the air will flow smoothly again. This way, you can enjoy even temperatures, improved energy efficiency, and low energy bills.
Call PFO Heating & Air Conditioning For All Of Your HVAC Requirements
When you need high-quality heating and cooling services in the Greater Princeton, NJ area, call PFO Heating & Air Conditioning. We have highly skilled and the best professionally certified technicians who can provide you all your HVAC needs. All our knowledgeable and experienced techs can conduct repairs, maintenance, installations, and more to your HVAC system correctly.
Rest assured, we offer practical solutions at affordable prices. We can improve your home’s energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and comfort with our tune-up services. We can also recommend the best HVAC repair or replacement system that fits your needs and budget. Our services come with a guarantee because your satisfaction is our priority. Schedule a service appointment and give PFO Heating & Air Conditioning today for a free, in-home estimate. Call now!
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