That’s No Ghost: You Might Have HVAC Air Flow Problems Instead

Skip the Paranormal Investigators and Check Your AC System Instead

It happens a lot in old houses, especially. Homeowners tell us about doors closing on their own, or mysterious pockets of cold and hot air throughout the house. Sometimes, if you’re quiet enough, you can even hear peculiar whistling sounds emanating from certain rooms or a stairwell, too. It’s enough to make anybody break into goose bumps, unless you’re an HVAC contractor. We know better!

“It’s All About Airflow, Kid”

Signs of HVAC airflow issues share a lot in common with those of a poltergeist. Inconsistent temperatures (one room is comfortable, while another is freezing cold), indoor pressure problems (drafts or slamming doors) and variations in how much warm or cold air is coming from your registers (the wrong temperature air coming out at the wrong time) all suggest you have a problem brewing that most likely doesn’t involve the supernatural. It just means you have to fix it.

Luckily, these issues usually aren’t expensive, though left untended, they can add up to bigger costs later on. And unless you’re planning on making money from a reality television series documenting ghost hunters in your home, it’s probably better to call us than spring for a new compressor after the filming crew has gone home.

Forget Blocked Energy, You Might Have Blocked Ducts (or Vents)

First, check all the indoor system equipment that could get blocked. Dirty air filters can send dust and other debris straight into your ductwork, preventing air from getting through. Change your AC filter, and inspect your ductwork for evidence of debris or even the nests of unwanted insects or critters. It does happen in older houses. Cracks and leaks can also occur in your equipment, a situation that can play havoc with efficient regulation of indoor airflow.

Examine your thermostat, and HVAC blower fans for malfunctions. Even slight calibration problems or soiled fan blades can result in airflow disturbances, as can leaking or under filled refrigerant levels in your system. Make sure your technician inspects it all.

Next, go outside and take a look at your condenser coils and overall condition. We often experience windy conditions here in the Southland, with leaf litter blowing everywhere. Check to make sure your condenser has not become blocked by yard debris, or an overgrowth of surrounding plants and bushes. These problems can directly affect your indoor airflow.

Bigger Isn’t Necessarily Better When It Comes to HVAC Systems

Finally, let’s talk HVAC size. When remodeling or even building a home, it’s easy to get talked into more equipment than you might need. In fact, common wisdom once adhered to this “bigger equals better” idea when it came to indoor comfort. But the truth is, your system size may not be appropriate for your home.

An HVAC unit too large for the building it is supposed to heat and cool will not do either efficiently, wasting energy and utility costs in the process. Old or outdated systems can also function less than effectively, with consequences to your airflow as well. Don’t lose hope, however. There may be some less expensive upgrades or retrofits your HVAC contractor can make to improve your existing equipment, without having to replace everything. Ask about it!

So next time you hear that upstairs door slam and nobody else is home, don’t worry. Your home is probably not haunted, unless a ghost is trying to tell you to call a qualified HVAC contractor.

Got airflow problems? Call Air-tro to ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently, saving you money as it saves energy. Get in touch today. (626) 357-3535