If you're concerned that your HVAC system isn't operating as efficiently as it should, you might think it's the fault of the equipment. In fact, out of balance airflow through the system may be the underlying cause of your poor equipment performance.
Proper air balancing not only ensures that your HVAC system runs efficiently and keeps your energy consumption in check, but it also reduces unnecessary strain on the equipment and provides better temperature control for greater comfort.
Air Balancing 101
Balanced airflow through the HVAC system depends on factors like the number, location and size of your supply and return ducts, and whether the duct system is good overall condition. If your energy bills are rising but your equipment is well maintained, it's wise to have a knowledgeable HVAC professional assess your system's airflow. An experienced pro starts by checking for ductwork defects like disconnections and leaks, and then uses sophisticated equipment to perform various diagnostic tests, such as:
- Measuring static pressure on the supply and return sides of the system using a manometer.
- Checking the conditioned air output at each supply register with a flow hood.
- Measuring temperature, heat gains/losses and humidity using a hygrometer.
Once all the investigative work is done, your technician crunches the numbers using specialized computer software. The report that results details the state of airflow through your HVAC system, and provides recommendations on corrective actions that your pro should take to bring the flow into proper balance.
Finding the Balance
The necessary steps may include:
- Fixing defects, then sealing and insulating the ductwork.
- Adjusting the blower fan speed.
- Modifying the settings on an air cleaner/filtration unit that's been installed on the system.
- Adding dampers in the ductwork, or making changes to existing dampers.
- Installing extra return ducts in strategic locations.
After all the recommended actions are complete, additional tests are done to ensure that airflow is now in proper balance so you can benefit from improved efficiency and greater comfort.
See if air balancing can improve your HVAC efficiency in your Fort Wayne home, contact us at Hartman Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in New Haven, Indiana and surrounding Fort Wayne area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air balancing and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 260-376-2961.
Credit/Copyright Attribution: “geralt/Pixabay”