Low Airflow
What Causes Low Airflow from Your HVAC System in Your Home
Have you been experiencing low airflow from your HVAC system? If you have noticed low airflow from your HVAC system you may have hot and cold spots in your home, stuffy, or little air coming from your vents. Most likely you are having a hard time staying comfortable. Sometimes it could be easy to ignore especially if it happens in a part of your home you do not frequent. However, it is essential to have proper airflow in your home and for your HVAC system to prevent serious issues in the future. There are many reasons that could lead to low airflow, but the most common source for low airflow is ductwork problems. Some are easier to resolve than others. In this article we discuss what causes low airflow from your HVAC system in your home.
Duct Leaks
Small holes and cracks in your ductwork system reduce the level of comfort and increase your cooling and heating costs. These openings allow air to leak out from your ductwork before ever making it to the space that needs heating or cooling in your home. A professional can patch any problem areas, but if the ducts are too damaged it is possible the entirety of your ducts may need to be replaced. Leaks can occur for any number of reasons including age, poor installation, and even rodents.
Poor Ductwork Design and Installation
Each duct run should be designed and installed in a way where it will effectively deliver a certain amount of air to a certain part of your home. Any changes to the ductwork can affect its ability to deliver the right amount of air inside of your home. If the ductwork was installed incorrectly, airflow can easily become restricted. Sagging joints is another issue caused by improper poor installation. Ductwork must be properly supported to prevent leaks and any potential duct issues. Other signs of poor ductwork design are runs that are too long or too many or sharp duct bends. Prior to installation location of your equipment must be properly planned so it does not result in duct runs that are too long to carry the air to your indoor space. Proper installation planning is also essential as to not create bends that are too numerous or sharp further restricting airflow. Ductwork that is too big or too small can also lead to low airflow.
Closed or Blocked Vents
If your vents are closed or blocked air will not flow properly into your home. Check to see if any furniture is blocking any vents around your home. Make sure to clear the vents and feel if the airflow has returned. Another issue that can lead to low airflow is if your home does not have enough return air vents.
Closed Dampers
Sometimes it is not the actual vents that are closed, it could be a damper on the vent that is closed blocking airflow. Dampers regulate, direct and can stop airflow from your HVAC system. The damper system could be automatic controlled by your thermostat or manual. You can check if they are in the right position by locating them in your ductwork.
Restrictive Air Filters
Air filters come with MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings. When air is pulled through your system it passes through the air filter to remove dust, dirt, and other contaminants. The higher the MERV rating the fewer particles and contaminants that can pass through it, but also air. The smaller pores in highly efficient filters can lead to reduction in airflow, lead to poor indoor air quality, and put an extra strain on your system making it inefficient. Most systems can operate with a filter rated MERV 7-12 but check your manual to see if your system can handle higher MERV filters. Regardless, be sure to check and replace your air filter often, a dirty air filter can not only restrict airflow but cause some potentially costly damage to your HVAC system.
Contact LA Construction, Heating and Air
Fix your low airflow issues by calling us today at 818-341-3406 or by contacting us online. Figuring out the reason behind low airflow could be difficult without the help of a professional. We can help you determine what is behind your low airflow issues and provide you with options to improve your airflow. We are here to help you, give us a call today!
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