As colder fall weather approaches in Alexandria, VA, it’s crucial that your home have adequate airflow that keeps the temperatures even throughout all its rooms. If you’ve noticed that your airflow doesn’t seem to be up to par, we’re going to share some great tips on how to get it there and why you should do so.
Look at Your Vents
Each room throughout your house should have at least two vents, a supply vent and a return vent. These need to remain open for air to flow freely in and out of them. If you’re experiencing restricted airflow inside of your home, take a few moments and check each vent.
First, you’ll want to check that the vent is in an open position. Second, you’ll want to see if there’s any object in front of the vent. If so, move the object to provide a good 2 feet of airflow around the entire vent.
Get Your Ducts Cleaned
There is a series of ducts running through the walls, attic or basement of your home. Any small leaks or cracks can let in unwanted dust, dirt and debris that restrict the airflow inside your ducting. Having your ductwork cleaned and checked for leaks every couple of years can help to reduce the amount of this unwanted debris.
Replace Your Air Filter
Your HVAC system has an air filter that works to trap unhealthy particles and contaminants from the air inside of your home. When your air filter reaches the end of its lifespan, it clogs up and reduces your system’s airflow. Simply replacing your air filter with a new one will allow air to resume flowing freely throughout your HVAC system.
You should check your air filter every month. You’ll know that it needs replacing when you can no longer see through it because of the clogged-up dirt.
Get Professional Service
A problem with an internal component of your air handler can create a problem with the airflow for your entire HVAC system. For example, bent fan blades, cracked fan belts and even damaged motors can cause a reduction in the airflow of your HVAC system. It’s best to contact a professional to assess the specific problem with your system and fix it accordingly.
Insect Infestation
It’s not uncommon for pests to seek shelter inside of your warm ductwork as the weather starts to get colder. Unfortunately, when the infestation becomes large, it can cause an unnecessary restriction in the flow of air throughout your ductwork. If you believe that you have a pest infestation hiding in your ductwork, it’s time to call a professional to resolve the problem.
Use Ceiling Fans
You’re likely familiar with the advice to use your ceiling fans in the summer to create the feeling of a cool breeze on your body. You can also use your ceiling fans in the winter months to make the environment feel warmer. The fan’s functionality all depends on the direction in which its fan blades spin.
In winter, you’ll want to set your fan blades to turn clockwise , forcing air upward. Since heat rises, the warmest air in any room is going to be lingering at the ceiling. As the fan blades force air towards the ceiling, the existing hot air moves toward the wall and eventually down toward the floor, helping to keep everyone warmer.
Why Improve Your Airflow?
Improving the airflow for your HVAC system can allow it to be more effective at delivering warm air to your home in the cold winter months. Also, the better the airflow in your HVAC system, the lower your energy costs will be. By utilizing the tips above, you can make your HVAC system keep air flowing optimally throughout your entire house.
If you need help with duct cleaning, or identifying issues with airflow, give us a call at Vernon The Heating & Cooling Specialist today. We’re here to assist you with all your HVAC needs!
Image provided by iStock
