Living in Chandler, AZ, is about soaking up that glorious sunshine. When you’re trying to relax inside, nothing’s a bigger bummer than feeling like your home’s air is just not moving. There are many reasons why your place might be more “sauna” than “cool oasis.” Figuring out what’s wrong with your airflow is your ticket to turning your home into the chill zone you deserve.
What Causes Poor Airflow in a House?
From easy fixes like a blockage in your system to trickier problems that need a professional’s touch, there’s a whole lineup of usual suspects behind the stuffy air in your house.
Oversized or Undersized HVAC Systems
If your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is too big, it’ll cool down your place faster than you can say “Arizona heatwave.” However, it won’t take the time to pull the moisture out of the air, leaving your home feeling more like a swamp than a cool haven. On the flip side, a too-small system works super hard but still doesn’t make the cut.
Clogged Air Filters
Air filters keep out the riff-raff — like dust, pollen, and pesky pet dander, ensuring the air inside your home stays clean and healthy. However, just like a bouncer can only block so much of the crowd, these filters can get clogged with gunk over time.
Blocked or Closed Vents
Vents are the secret to ensuring that every nook and cranny of your place gets a piece of that air action. Throw a pillow or a big piece of furniture in front of one, and you cramp the system, making some rooms feel like a tropical getaway while others are more “winter wonderland.”
Ductwork Issues
Ductwork snakes through the walls, ceilings, and floors, making sure that refreshing air hits every spot in your place. If there’s a leak, hole, or something blocking the road in these ducts, it’s like hitting a traffic jam on your way to comfort.
Thermostat Issues
Think of a thermostat as the conductor of your home’s comfort orchestra, dialing in on the right temperature. The thermostat chats with your HVAC system to get the heating or cooling just right. When it’s off its game, your home’s airflow can be stifled.
Why Is Lack of Airflow in a House Bad?
Poor airflow doesn’t just make your home uncomfortable; it can also negatively impact your HVAC system and your indoor air quality. Here’s why it’s crucial to address poor airflow promptly:
Increased Energy Bills: Restricted airflow forces your HVAC system to work harder and run longer to reach the set temperature. This inefficiency consumes higher energy and leads to higher utility bills.
Uneven Temperature Distribution: Without proper airflow, some areas of your home might remain too hot in summer or too cold in winter.
Compromised Indoor Air Quality: Poor airflow limits the circulation of fresh air, allowing pollutants, allergens, and dust to accumulate, which can worsen respiratory conditions and affect overall health.
Reduced HVAC Lifespan: Having your system run non-stop because it’s struggling with airflow isn’t just a pain; it also means your system could tap out way sooner than you’d want.
Increased Humidity Levels: When your HVAC system can’t escort excess humidity out the door, the result is mold growth and an overall level of discomfort inside your home.
How To Improve Airflow in Your House
Now that you understand the causes and consequences of poor airflow, you may be wondering how to fix the issue. Here are some tips to improve airflow in your home:
Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly: Replace or clean your home’s air filters every 90 days.
Unblock and Clean Vents: Address poor airflow from vents by checking that furniture, curtains, or other obstructions are not blocking your vents. Regularly vacuuming and cleaning can also prevent build-up.
Seal Leaks in Ductwork: Find any leaks in your ductwork and seal them with duct tape or mastic sealant to prevent air escaping.
Ensure Proper Insulation: Proper insulation helps maintain the desired temperature throughout your home, reducing the workload on your HVAC system and preventing issues related to AC poor airflow.
Regular Maintenance of HVAC System: Scheduling regular maintenance checks can drastically improve poor airflow HVAC issues. HVAC experts pamper your system, ensuring it’s in tip-top shape.
Contact Us for HVAC Services
Are you still feeling the heat or the cold a bit too much, even after trying everything? It might just be the right time to call in the professionals. At Viking HVAC, we’re ready to take a deep look into your HVAC system. We sort out what’s needed to get that air flowing smoothly again.
Viking HVAC has got your back for all things heating, AC repair, and anything your HVAC system needs to keep you comfortable. Contact us today!
