There are few things more frustrating than walking into an overheated house after a long day at work.
After all, your air conditioner has two jobs: cooling your home and circulating that cool air. Why can’t it tackle these both?
However, that second task can be surprisingly tricky, and HVAC airflow problems are among the most common HVAC problems most homeowners will tackle. Fortunately, we’ve put together a list of the four most frequent causes—and what to do about them!
Read on to bring your system back up to speed.
1. Closed Registers and Vents
This is the obvious first place to check when there’s low or no airflow, but many homeowners forget to start here. Someone else in the house may have closed a return or supply register to keep a room warmer, or you may have forgotten you closed it between seasonal temperature fluctuations. Either way, make sure to open all registers and vents to prevent a loss of airflow.
2. Clogged Air Filter
Experts recommend that you change your air filter every 6 months, or as needed. You may need more frequent changes if you have more occupants in your home or if you have pets.
Clogged air filters can affect the air quality in your home, and the more they’re clogged, the more likely they are to start affecting your airflow as well. You may even notice uneven temperatures throughout the rooms in your house, and your HVAC system may suffer damage as it struggles to push cool air where it’s needed.
Make sure to replace your filter with high-quality options whenever you notice they’ve grown dirty.
3. Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is the substance responsible for cooling your home. When the air isn’t as cool as it should be, your refrigerant may be to blame.
If you’re worried about this, make sure to contact a professional to fix the leak. Experts like the team at Aire Serv are equipped to handle this dangerous substance for you, as it can be dangerous to breathe and can harm your bare skin.
4. Dirt or Obstructions in Your Outdoor Unit
When you’re seeing HVAC problems like reduced airflow, it’s a good idea to do an inspection of your entire system—including your exterior unit.
Sometimes, obstructions may make it hard for your system to run efficiently. These obstructions, including leaves, plants, and even branches, are usually easy to clear away. While you’re outside, check to make sure that your landscaping hasn’t become too overgrown around your unit.
In addition, debris or dust can sometimes build up if you haven’t cleaned your outdoor condenser unit recently. Take the time to wash this away, and see if it impacts your airflow.
Get Expert Help to Tackle Serious HVAC Airflow Problems
If you’re noticing issues that can’t be explained, even once you’ve checked out the common culprits above, it may be time to call for backup. An expert can help diagnose your HVAC airflow problems before they become serious. The last thing you want is to put these issues off and deal with HVAC emergency repair later down the line!
Want to learn more about the DIY home skills you should know? Check out our other posts!
