Poor HVAC Airflow: Causes and Solutions

Do you feel no difference in indoor temperature after adjusting your HVAC settings? Perhaps you noticed strange hot and cold spots throughout your living spaces. If these problems seem familiar to you, your HVAC system is likely experiencing airflow issues. If poor airflow remains unaddressed, your air conditioner or furnace may experience compressor failure, which can lead to extensive repairs.  

To fix your HVAC airflow issues, you need to determine the cause. Air Products & Services, your trusted residential and commercial AC maintenance expert, highlights the common causes and solutions of poor HVAC airflow.

Clogged Air Filters

Air filters keep the air you breathe indoors clean and healthy by filtering out mold, dust, pollen, pet dander, and other outdoor contaminants. Ideally, you may need to change it every three months or more frequently, depending on the usage. If clogged with debris, they can block the airflow through your system, resulting in hot and cold spots around your home. In some cases, clogged air filters can even lead to a malfunction. To prevent clogged filters from preventing proper airflow, change them according to your manufacturer’s instructions and your system usage.

Wrong Unit Size

The size of your HVAC unit, bigger is not always better. For instance, an oversized air conditioner turns on and off frequently and is unable to remove excess moisture from your living spaces. Not only will this increase the likelihood of early failure, but your unit will also provide insufficient airflow. Meanwhile, an undersized unit has to work twice harder to cool down your home. As such, some of its components may overheat, especially the capacitor. If you’re buying a new unit for your home, consult a professional who will be able to determine the right residential AC size. 

Blocked or Leaky Ducts

Your home’s ductwork delivers warm and cold air from your HVAC system to the rooms in your home. Without proper maintenance, however, dust and debris can clog the inside of the ducts. Birds and rodents may also find their way inside, which is not uncommon in many older homes. Over time, the ducts develop holes and cracks where warm or cool air leaks out. All these can lead to reduced airflow for heating and air conditioning and drive up your energy bills. To increase airflow in your ductwork, the best solution is to call an HVAC company that can inspect your system thoroughly. Cleaning the ductwork can be tricky, so it’s a good idea to hire a professional. 

Count on Air Products & Services to provide top-notch workmanship to ensure your HVAC system is in good working condition year-round. Whether you need heating repairs or air conditioning installation services, rest assured that one of our technicians is experienced and qualified to do so. To get started, call (818) 989-2030 or fill out our online contact form. We serve homeowners in Tarzana, CA, and the surrounding communities in Los Angeles County.