Reasons for Airflow Optimization

Posted on by meister

As you read about airflow optimization, you’ll learn why it’s important and various methods to achieve it:

    • Optimized airflow evenly distributes cooling, making the process more efficient
    • Regular ductwork maintenance can keep airflow optimal
    • A clean condenser is integral to optimized airflow

If you live in Arizona’s East Valley, you know the summers can be sweltering. To stay comfortable, you probably run your AC every day. However, it may be cooling more often than you need.

HVAC systems not only adjust the temperature but also circulate air throughout the house. Over time, dirt and other factors can disrupt circulation, resulting in less-than-optimal airflow. If air isn’t evenly distributed among the rooms, you may end up running the AC more often than necessary.

The good news is, there are ways to fix this issue. Once your air is back to optimal distribution, you’ll notice several immediate and long-term benefits.

Why Optimize Your Airflow?

Of course, if you’re not enduring an East Valley summer, you may wonder if optimization is worth the effort. Does it really make a difference during temperate weather when you only run your HVAC system occasionally? Actually, airflow optimization makes a difference no matter the season.

Fortunately, optimizing airflow is relatively easy to do. Many of the steps are simple enough to accomplish yourself. Others should be addressed by a professional to reduce the risk of damage and extend the life of your system. All told, the effort put into optimization is minimal compared to the benefits.

Even Distribution of Air

Often, airflow disruption doesn’t occur evenly. There may be one vent or area of ductwork that isn’t functioning as it should, and only the connected rooms are affected. You may notice this when one room is noticeably hotter than the others or takes longer to cool down.

Uneven distribution of air has two effects: running the AC longer and personal discomfort. For example, you may let the air run longer to cool down the one room, leaving the rest of the house too cold. Conversely, you may decide it’s not worth the cost of cooling that room and resign yourself to being uncomfortably warm instead. Even air distribution eliminates this conundrum.

More Efficient Cooling

If something is affecting airflow, it’s probably affecting your HVAC’s efficiency as well. The less efficient your system, the more often you have to run it to get the desired temperature.

During the summer, you want to get the most out of your AC without going broke. If cool air is evenly distributed throughout your house, you get faster cooling and reasonable energy bills.

Cleaner Air

Your HVAC system doesn’t just affect temperature — it also has a lot to do with your home’s air quality. As air circulates through your house, it passes through filters, which catch unwanted particles:

    • Pollen
    • Allergens
    • Dust
    • Dirt
    • Mold

Optimized airflow ensures your home’s air is of the highest quality. If quality becomes poor, you may notice several issues:

    • Allergy symptoms
    • Respiratory symptoms such as coughing, especially in individuals with conditions such as asthma
    • Musty smells
    • Dust accumulating more frequently

Even air distribution means a cleaner home, a more comfortable experience, and fewer health problems.

What Are the Best Ways To Optimize Airflow?

Optimizing airflow isn’t a one-and-done project. Some things you’ll need to revisit once or twice a year, while others need regular checking. If you’re unsure how often to perform some of this maintenance, your friendly HVAC professional can let you know.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the more items you check off this list, the better your airflow will be. While it may be tempting to only do the easy tasks, you’ll see significant improvement if you do everything on this list.

1. Schedule Regular Ductwork Maintenance

You should get ductwork maintenance done at least once a year, preferably in the spring before the heat hits and your HVAC system is working its hardest. Ductwork maintenance has several steps:

    • Cleaning
    • Inspection
    • Repairs

The air in your HVAC system is pulled from outside, and various particles come with it. Over time, dust and dirt build up in the ductwork, narrowing the passageway and affecting airflow. Cleaning returns your system to its ideal working conditions.

As HVAC professionals clean your ductwork, they also give it a thorough inspection. This close look helps them spot parts that are worn or damaged. Technicians can then replace parts and fix minor problems before they become huge issues, thereby keeping repairs minimal.

2. Don’t Close Vents

Some rooms may cool quicker than others; for example, in the afternoon, rooms with east-facing windows may reach a comfortable temperature faster than those with west-facing windows. It seems logical to adjust vents to get more airflow to the rooms that need more cooling, but that can backfire.

Closing vents or obstructing them with furniture actually consumes more energy, as the HVAC system will still push air through, but it will take more effort. To achieve the most efficient cooling, you should allow air to be evenly distributed through the vents.

3. Don’t Obstruct the Condenser

Many HVAC condensers are located outside, on the ground. They’re a crucial AV component, as they both release and collect heat. However, if they’re obstructed, they can’t do their jobs properly.

Unfortunately, condensers can quickly become obstructed by debris. For example, a storm may cause dirt and branches to accumulate around and on top of the structure. During autumn, leaves may fall on it. If there are bushes or trees near the condenser, it may also be obstructed by overgrown foliage.

It’s a good idea to check your condenser regularly, especially after a storm or windy day. If there’s debris, you can carefully clear it away. If you suspect damage, however, you should contact a professional to take a look.

4. Regularly Replace Filters

Over time, filters get filled with the debris they trap. You can see this happen; over time, your filters will go from white to a darker gray. Once they’re filled, it’s difficult for air to pass through. As a result, your AC has to work harder.

Most filters last about three months, though longevity is affected by weather and the environment. For example, here in the East Valley, we have to deal with a lot of pollution and dust. If there are multiple air advisory warnings or haboobs, you may need to change your filters more frequently.

Are you looking for an East Valley HVAC professional to help you optimize your home’s airflow? Then it’s time to contact Superstition Cooling. Our technicians are trained in AC maintenance, installation, and repair, ensuring that we can handle any problem that comes our way.

For nearly ten years, we’ve been offering high-quality service to the people of Arizona. That includes responding to emergencies 24/7, so you never have to endure the heat needlessly. To learn more about our services or to get an estimate, give us a call at 480-983-7407 or contact us via our online form.

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