How to Increase Central Airflow
One of the common HVAC issues homeowners face is problems with airflow, which may make it difficult to keep the home at a comfortable temperature. Proper HVAC airflow is vital for several reasons, including allowing optimum system operation.
Good AC airflow increases indoor comfort in many ways. It helps maintain consistent temperatures throughout the house. It enhances the system’s efficiency and lifespan, saving the homeowner money, preventing mold growth, and improving indoor air quality for a safe, healthy, and comfortable breathing environment for the family.
There are a number of reasons an AC system will have restricted airflow. They include:
Clogged vents and registers
Blocked filters
Obstructions in the condenser unit
Leaky or clogged ductwork
A faulty thermostat
Dirty condenser coils
An old HVAC system
An improper duct size
Here are a few ways to increase the central HVAC system’s airflow for better efficiency:
Inspect vents and registers
Inspect the vents and registers in every room of the house to ensure they are open, and objects like furniture or curtains are not obstructing the airflow. Accumulation of dust and debris inside the vents also restricts the air coming out of them. Make vent cleaning a part of the routine home cleaning schedule.
Clean or change air filters
Air filters trap all the dust, debris, and other airborne contaminants to prevent their circulation inside the home and provide clean and fresh air to breathe. Clogged air filters result in poor air output from the heating and cooling system, and if the issue persists, it can damage the unit severely.
Inspect the filters regularly (once a month) to ensure they are clean, and wash or replace them as needed. It is also essential to install the correct filter type for the system.
Ductwork sealing and cleaning
Leaky ducts are very common and are one of the primary causes of poor central airflow. Ductwork may develop cracks, holes, and seams, causing the air to leak, leading to uneven heating and cooling. Call a professional to inspect and seal the ducts and improve the air conditioner airflow to protect the system and save up to 30% on the energy bills.
The build-up in the ductwork clogs it and reduces the airflow passing through it, causing the air conditioner to overwork. Consider duct cleaning to remove dirt and debris and ensure smooth airflow.
Duct resizing
Oversized or undersized ducts can also result in weak airflow from the air conditioner. An HVAC contractor can examine the ducts to assess if they are sized correctly or not. Correct duct size goes a long way in ensuring proper airflow in the house.
Schedule periodic HVAC maintenance
Schedule preventative HVAC upkeep annually or twice a year by a professional for complete system inspection and cleaning. A comprehensive tune-up is essential to get the most out of the system and ensure proper airflow through the house. Weak airflow signifies some problem with the unit that the technician can diagnose and fix to ensure optimum functioning.
Replace an old and inefficient unit
Central air conditioners that are more than 15 years old are often inefficient and have a difficult time maintaining proper airflow. Consider upgrading to a new and more efficient unit for improved performance.
Stud Air Conditioning is a full-service installation, maintenance, and repair HVAC company serving Broward, Miami-Dade, West Palm Beach, and Port St. Lucie counties. Call us when you need help with your heating or cooling needs at (954)324-2905. We can help!
