7 Causes of Blocked Ducts in Your HVAC System
Is there less air than usual coming from your vents? If so, there might be an obstruction.
We’re going to explain what creates blocked air ducts and how to diagnose the seven most common causes.
1. Your Air Filter Is Dirty
The most common cause of restricted airflow is a dirty filter. It’s easy to install a filter and then forget to replace it.
Each filter manufacturer will clearly state on its packaging the maximum recommended time the filter should remain in service. You can scribble the filter’s expected end-of-life date on the filter’s paper border so that when you inspect it, you won’t have to guess when it should be changed.
2. You’re Using the Wrong Air Filter
The wrong air filter can also be the reason that your HVAC has low airflow. Usually, the problem is caused by purchasing a higher quality filter than the HVAC can handle.
Due to increasing concern about airborne viruses, more people have begun purchasing higher grade filters. These filters feature a tight weave that strains out tiny particles in the air. That’s very effective for improving your indoor air quality. However, it has a downside.
By nature, the tighter weave means that it requires more effort to push air through the filter. Older and lower-powered HVAC units simply can’t handle those types of filters.
Always refer to your operator’s manual to select the type of filter that your HVAC manufacturer recommends for your model.
3. Your Furniture Is in the Wrong Place
Sometimes your ducts are blocked by a rug or furniture that was temporarily moved for whatever reason and simply forgotten. For example, if you were remodeling or redecorating, you may have moved an item of furniture against a different wall, resulting in a blocked vent or an obstructed return air vent.
4. The Dampers Aren’t Opening
Do you have a zone control system in your home? If so, there are dampers that automatically open and close to direct air to specific parts of the house. A damper may be stuck in its closed position.
If so, use the manual controls to free the damper and allow air to flow freely once again.
5. You Have Disconnected or Damaged Ductwork
Over the years, ductwork can become loose or damaged, allowing air to escape underneath your house. This is the air that should be heating or cooling your home.
If you’re comfortable navigating crawlspaces, you’ll be able to spot easily the places where air ducts have become disconnected or damaged. You may also notice a suspicious change in the temperature as you near those areas.
6. Foreign Objects Have Invaded Your Ductwork
Things that don’t belong in HVAC ductwork are nevertheless easily found there, causing blocked air ducts. Sometimes it can be construction debris or insulation fibers. At other times, the culprit might be a mouse, squirrel, or another rodent that thought your ductwork would make an excellent place to build a nest.
7. Foreign Objects Have Fallen Down the Vents
It’s easy to accidentally drop objects in air vents when they’re on the floor. Is there anyone in your family complaining about missing Legos? Small toys and household objects can easily cause enough blockage for you to notice a drop in the amount of air that you’re receiving in that room.
Do You Need Help Clearing Your Blocked Ducts?
Did you recognize your problem from the seven causes of blocked air ducts mentioned above? Some obstructions are easy fixes. However, there are others that you may want to let a professional handle.
When you need a helping hand, contact us today to not only clear your blocked ducts but also keep your entire HVAC system running at peak efficiency.