What is Air Balancing?

You certainly want your central air system to keep you comfortable through the seasons. Unfortunately the AFUE and SEER ratings of your furnace and A/C have do not take into account the duct distribution system. That’s why air balancing is essential to your home comfort and and can ensure that your system is working as efficiently as possible.

Air balancing goes a step beyond annual ductwork maintenance. In the simplest terms, the process of air balancing involves comprehensive testing and adjustments of air pressure between supply and return throughout the home. This air balancing can also ensure even distribution of temperature and humidity.

Who May Benefit?

There are many factors that contribute to unbalanced airflow. Something as simple as a disconnected duct can disrupt the balance of a system. Some of the more common factors are incorrectly sized ducts, leaky ducts, and poor duct design.

Home Assessment

Your HVAC technician begins your home assessment with a visual inspection. Noticeable duct leaks are noted and the layout of the ductwork is assessed. Further, pertinent questions need to be answered:

• Where are the ducts located?
• Are they insulated?
• What kind of sealing materials are used?
• Are building cavities used to channel airflow?
• Are there temperature or humidity problems?

Next, your technician conducts a series of tests to determine the air pressure, temperature, and humidity from each supply register. Return air pressure is also measured at each return grille.

Focusing on the air ducts, a pressure test is performed that reveals duct leakage. Before balancing and adjusting airflow, all leaks must be identified and sealed.

Balancing Airflow

You’ll receive a printout of the results of the tests performed and the recommendations to proceed with balancing. If the ducts need to be sealed or repaired, the airflow tests will be performed again following the adjustments to confirm the results.

Sometimes mechanical dampers can be used to optimize airflow to your home’s comfort. Whatever your home needs to maximize comfort and efficiency, work with a reputable HVAC contractor to ensure the best results.

To learn more about air balancing, contact the experts at C.R. Wolfe Heating & Air Conditioning today. We’ve served Middletown residents and businesses since 1945.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Middletown, New York about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air balancing and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 845-367-4482.

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