Whether you are cooling your home in the hot months or warming it in the winter, an HVAC system that functions properly is essential to your comfort. One vital factor in how well your HVAC system works is airflow. There are plenty of steps that you can take to boost airflow and countless benefits of having quality, even airflow throughout your home.
Understanding HVAC Airflow
Without significant airflow, the conditioned air from your HVAC system doesn’t properly distribute throughout your home. Most areas will not be at your set temperature. Weak airflow can also cause your HVAC system to work much longer than it should.
Comfort
The main benefit of proper airflow is your comfort. When airflow is weak, you may notice unwanted hot or cold spots. These uncomfortable spots in your home tend to be in areas further away from the unit or the main ductwork trunkline. Proper airflow ensures a more even temperature throughout your home.
Air Quality
Thanks to the filters in an HVAC system, good airflow will help improve the indoor air quality (IAQ) in your home. As more air is recirculated in the HVAC system and passes through the filters, many pollutants and allergens are removed before the air blows into your home.
Lower Electric Bills
When air flows properly through your HVAC system and around your home, your system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain your preferred temperature. This efficiency means you can expect a lower electricity bill when you are warming or cooling your home using your HVAC system.
Winter Protection
As stated before, poor airflow can result in an uneven temperature within your home. In the winter months, this can be particularly distressing. Beyond the cold spots causing discomfort, they can also contribute to freezing pipes, depending on the location and severity.
Improved HVAC Lifespan
Since your HVAC system doesn’t need to work quite as hard when you have sufficient airflow, the lifespan of your system will be extended. Repairs will be needed less frequently and your system can enjoy a longer serviceable life.
Poor HVAC Airflow Signs
Beyond uneven home temperature or an increased energy bill, there are some signs you can look out for that may show poor airflow. Physically sticking your hand in front of the vent and feeling for proper airflow is easy to check. If it seems low, double-check your system settings. Make sure that you don’t have the vents closed before assuming your system has an airflow problem. You should also make sure that there isn’t any furniture or other large objects blocking the intake vent or registers.
Check around the registers of your home. Dust buildup around these could signal that you need to change your air filters. However, it can also be a sign of poor airflow. Unlike table surfaces that need dusting more frequently, sufficient airflow helps prevent dust from accumulating on your registers.
Another signal of poor airflow is if your HVAC unit cycles on and off more frequently. The uneven interior temperature will cause your system to turn on more often to warm or cool your home, depending on the time of year. Pay attention to whether or not you hear this happening with more frequency.
How to Improve Airflow
Luckily, there are many things you can do to improve airflow. Here are a few.
Air Filter Cleaning or Replacement
Depending on the type of air filter your HVAC system has, you need to clean the filters or replace them regularly. Over time, the pollutants, dust, and allergens a filter collects will block air from flowing through it. Typically, you should plan on replacing your filters every 90 days, but you can certainly do it more often if you have pets in the home, someone who smokes, or another regular threat to IAQ.
Vent Positioning
If your vents allow the angle of the airflow to be manipulated, aim the airflow toward the center of the room. This provides an even, consistent stream of air throughout each space.
Ductwork Inspection
If airflow is still a concern, you may have issues with the ducts themselves. There can be a leak in the vent due to damage or insufficient sealant on the seams. Our technicians are qualified to inspect and repair all manner of ductwork.
Regular Professional Maintenance
If you schedule regular maintenance with a reputable HVAC company, they will inspect your system and address any potential problems before they become bigger issues. This is especially helpful in the fall and spring, so your climate control system is ready for extreme temperatures ahead.
If you’re dealing with poor airflow in St. Louis, MO or the surrounding areas, our team is here to help. We offer a full range of HVAC services, including installation, cleaning, maintenance, and repair of both traditional HVAC systems, heat pumps, and mini-splits. We also offer fireplace, water heater, and sheet metal fabrication services. Contact Bone Heating & Cooling today if you’re concerned about airflow or any other HVAC problem.
