Poor duct airflow can make it harder for the HVAC system to maintain air quality and temperature in your home. Consider air duct cleaning, opening blocked vents, dusting the coils, and maintaining the refrigerant levels to improve the airflow. You should also adjust the desirable thermostat settings, ensure proper blower functioning, and check for duct leaks. If the issue persists, it is best to consider professional help.
Easy Ways to Fix Poor Duct Airflow
Try fixing minor HVAC system issues at home. It includes duct-related problems like poor airflow, blockage, and compromised ventilation. These are some efficient solutions that you can try to fix poor duct airflow:
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Change Air Filters
If you neglect your AC maintenance for some time, clogged air filters cause airflow issues in your HVAC. These filters help to maintain the air cleanliness in your indoor areas. They filter mold, pollen, dust, pet dander, and outdoor contaminants. Depending on the usage of your HVAC, you must clean them monthly for optimum operation.
If the filters get clogged, they block the ventilation, leading to poor airflow and temperature control. If you live in a crowded and polluted area, you must change the filters every four months and get regular duct repair services.
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Refill the Refrigerant
Low refrigerant levels are among the most common causes of poor HVAC function. Refrigerant lowers the temperature of the air that passes through it, so low refrigerant means poor cooling. Low refrigerant is due to leakage in the AC coils, which may be due to cracks or holes. Poor maintenance leads to corrosion and thinning of the AC coils, further allowing the refrigerant to leak through. It is important to refill the refrigerant according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Take Care of Leaking Ducts
The HVAC has a complex duct network that needs regular cleaning and maintenance. Without maintenance, dirt and debris collect in the ducts, leading to obstruction and choking. It leads to poor airflow and, therefore, poor cooling.
Rats and birds might gradually build their nests over an old building, causing clogged ducts. It can lead to energy waste, which can skyrocket electricity expenses and make you hire professional HVAC repair services.
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Reopen Blocked Vents
If you feel no air crossing, it is most likely due to vent obstruction.
You might be unintentionally blocking your air vents; a piece of furniture might be in front and obstructing the airflow. Another reason is that you might have closed some vents on a cold day and need to remember to reopen them. It reduces the HVAC airflow, making hot days uncomfortable and suffocating. To fix this, all you have to do is check every vent in your house and open the closed ones or clear any obstructions that stand in the way.
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Clean the Thermostat
If you still can’t find the cause of poor airflow after reviewing everything, your thermostat is the problem. Although there is no link, your HVAC airflow may suffer if your thermostat malfunctions.
Check the batteries first for a battery-operated thermostat. If the batteries operate as expected, open the cover to look for debris and dust. Use a gentle brush to remove all the dirt inside your thermostat. Sometimes, the elements within it become twisted and cause issues, so consult a professional duct repair technician for help.
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Clean the AC Blower
An AC blower runs cold air via the ducting into your indoor space. Without a powerful blower push, the HVAC airflow is almost dead. The airflow gets low due to dust on the blower blades and a faulty blower motor. Turn off the AC and open your indoor unit to find the blower to solve this problem. Wipe any dirt gently or use a soft brush to remove it. Take great caution, and protect your fingers from the blades.
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Clean the Coils
HVAC cools your indoor space by running the air across cold evaporator coils. Again, if they are dirty, it can lead to many issues. Dirt covers on coils prevent heat release, affecting the air conditioner’s airflow. The unit can cause compressor failure, and must work hard to chill your space. Consider professional HVAC repair for help.
How To Control Airflow In An HVAC System?
Dampers are essential parts of an HVAC system that help control airflow. They reduce airflow, block it, or redirect it to desired areas. Dampers operate hydraulically or spring-loaded, with heavy weights or lever handles for manual control. They are present between the return grills and the receiving register and control the airflow by creating pressure differences on both sides.
Conclusion
Poor duct airflow leads to temperature fluctuations and decreases the efficiency of the HVAC system. The first solution is to try air duct cleaning to remove any dirt or debris leading to poor airflow. Then, try cleaning the blower, coils, or vents to see if the issue gets resolved. Moreover, ensure that the thermostat has optimal settings and that the refrigerant levels are sufficient to allow proper airflow. Feel free to contact Superior Air Management (St. Simons) to get the job done professionally.
