Balancing the load and circulation of your home’s HVAC system is a critical part of keeping the temperature consistent throughout your house. A properly balanced HVAC unit will ensure that the air is evenly distributed. Air balancing involves adjusting the dampers, fans, and registers that are all part of your home’s HVAC system to ensure that the airflow and pressure are correct throughout the property.
An unbalanced HVAC system can make rooms uncomfortable, either too warm or too cool. This can also cause your heating and cooling bills to be much higher. The inefficient heating and cooling with an unbalanced system will eventually take its toll on the system, shortening its lifespan.
Supply Air vs. Return Air Venting
Your home has different types of venting; one is used for supply air and one is for return air. These types of vents must work together to have a well-running HVAC unit. Most rooms have a supply and return vent. The supply vent will blow warm or cool air into the room, while the return vent draws the area into the system to be conditioned and heated or cooled. In some cases, a home may have one large return vent with many smaller supply vents throughout the house.
Signs That You Are Having Load Balancing Issues with Your HVAC System
The biggest sign of load balancing problems with your HVAC unit is a room or area of the home where there is a significant temperature discrepancy. If you suspect a problem with the airflow, you can check each room’s register and vents. Make sure these are all open and that they are not blocked by furniture or other items that could restrict the airflow.
Adjusting the thermostat to either heat or cool the home, check each register to make sure enough air is blowing into the room. Each room should have a similar amount of airflow coming through.
Most vents also have a damper that can regulate the airflow. Be sure each vent’s damper is in the fully open position to allow the maximum amount of air to flow in and out of the room.
If you see a difference in the airflow, or if some supply vents are not working at all, you may have clogged ductwork or another problem with the heating and cooling unit. A professional HVAC technician can help to identify the problem, making sure your HVAC system is properly balanced and operating efficiently.
