Depending on where you live, the winter season could bring snow, sleet, and freezing outdoor conditions. As a result, you likely rely on your furnace to deliver adequate warm air all season long. If your furnace airflow is low, however, you could experience cool indoor temperatures when the temperatures outside begin to drop. If you have a problem with the airflow of your system, there are a few things you can do to increase it. Keep reading to learn what you can do to restore quality furnace airflow.
Have your ducts inspected, cleaned, and sealed?
The ductwork in your home is a complex system of piping that serves as a highway to deliver air to every room in your home. Your ductwork might run through your ceilings, floors, and walls. If your furnace is not blowing air with enough force, it may be due to a problem with the ducts. The duct system may be clogged, or it may not be properly sealed. It is estimated that your ducts collect several pounds of dirt, dust, pollen, pet dander, and other debris over the course of a normal year of use. Over time, your air ducts could become clogged and prevent adequate airflow. Many HVAC professionals suggest that you have your ductwork cleaned every few years to remove all of the debris and substances that have collected there.
Additionally, your ductwork might have become damaged over time. This could be due to animals or insects, old age, or accidental damage. If your ductwork has become damaged or separated, gaps and openings in the system could allow furnace air to escape before it reaches the rooms in your home. It is essential that you have your ducts inspected and sealed as part of your annual HVAC maintenance.
Remove any obstacles or obstructions.
Airflow is a critical component of any HVAC equipment, including your furnace. Increasing the airflow in your home could be as simple as removing any obstacles in the way of your furnace's airflow. This includes things like furniture, rugs, and other large objects. You can also increase the airflow by making sure that all of the vents in your home are open and clear. If you have any closed vents, it's a good idea to open them up to allow for better air circulation.
Clean your furnace air filters regularly.
One of the most important regular maintenance tasks around your home is changing your air filters on a regular basis. Furnace air filters trap and collect dust, dirt, pollen, pet dander, and other debris over time. This helps to promote quality indoor air. However, after some time, your air filters could become dirty and clogged. If your filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow through the furnace.
Additionally, it could cause your system to work harder to produce heat and lead to breakdowns and premature failure. One of the easiest ways to increase furnace airflow is following a routine with your furnace air filters. By regularly cleaning or replacing the filters, you can help ensure that the furnace operates at its full potential and improve the quality of the air in your home. Most experts recommend changing your air filter every three months. However, if you live in an area with a high amount of dust or pollen or you have pets, you might need to check on your filters more regularly.
Seal cracks and openings around your home.
One way to improve the insulation and airflow in your home and make it more airtight is to seal any cracks or openings around your house. This can be done using caulk, weather-stripping, or expanding foam. Sealing these cracks and openings will help keep the warm air in during the winter and improve the efficiency and performance of your furnace. It will also help reduce noise pollution and save you money on your energy bills.
Increasing the airflow in a furnace is important to ensure that the system is working as efficiently as possible. This can be done by ensuring that all of the vents in the home are open, that the filters are clean, and that the ducts are properly maintained. Managing your furnace air flow is critical for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures all winter long.
