SAN MATEO — A common problem homeowners experience with their HVAC systems is inadequate or uneven airflow. While an HVAC company can resolve your airflow issues, before calling a professional, it’s worthwhile to perform a quick visual inspection of your ductwork to see if you can determine what’s causing the issue.
First, check connection points where the ductwork makes a 90-degree turn. When these transitions are made of flexible material, they can become crimped, which constricts airflow. To prevent this, consider replacing all soft, flexible junctions with rigid ones, which can be integrated with the rest of your flexible ductwork. This will rule out the chance for kinking or crimping, giving you 100 percent airflow through those turns.
You should also look for leaks in your ductwork. Check all connection points and make sure there aren’t any visible gaps; you can also use your hand to feel for any air flowing out of these junctions. If you detect any air leaks, it’s important to have these resealed as soon as possible.
Other things to check for are dips or “bellies” in your ducts, as well as any area of the ductwork that has been crushed or crimped. Sometimes, a technician from another trade will accidentally step on a part of the ductwork and cause a kink. If you have hard ductwork, this won’t pop back into shape, which will result in a permanent airflow issue. Check your ductwork for any crushed or otherwise damaged areas, and make sure the line is tight and straight, with straps in place every five feet.

by Vincent Casale, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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