Whether you live in a family home or manage an office building, you probably want to save some money where you can. That is especially true when it comes to utility bills. Thankfully, HVAC dampers can do the heavy lifting to maximize energy efficiency. But many of our clients wonder: what are HVAC dampers, and why are they important?
At Bacon Plumbing Heating Air Electric, our HVAC services cover every area of your home or business’s cooling system, including these important components. That’s why our team of HVAC experts is here to explain everything you need to know about dampers.
What is a damper in HVAC?
An HVAC damper is a vital piece of equipment for airflow regulation. It works in tandem with your thermostat to monitor the airflow and adjust temperatures accordingly.
Usually, residential homes use blade dampers. These plate-like components close parts of the HVAC system while keeping others open for maximum efficiency. Commercial enterprises will often use inlet vane dampers, large, fan-like blowers that regulate airflow and pressure.
When your AC unit turns on, the open or closed damper decides where to send heated and cooled air throughout your ductwork. Then, the ductwork raises or lowers the temperature in the room to the required level. Closing the dampers directs the airflow another way, and vice versa. Dampers are located closer to the air source than vents, making them the most efficient redirectors of cooled or heated air.
Do I need an HVAC damper?
HVAC dampers allow you to manage the temperature of your entire house effortlessly. With HVAC dampers, you can change the temperature of one room without interfering with any of the others in the building. In this kind of zoning system, your air conditioning and heat are optimized for each unique space in your house.
Additionally, HVAC dampers can lower utility bills. Since the damper can control airflow in the ducts, no air is wasted. Limiting the airflow allows the air conditioner, furnace, or heat pump to use less energy when circulating air through a space. Family homes, office buildings, and more can all benefit from duct dampers.
How Often Should My HVAC Dampers Be Checked?
We recommend scheduling a damper inspection every 6 months. Life safety dampers, like smoke and fire dampers, may need to be checked more frequently. Depending on your dampers’ model, location, and type of air flowing through, you may need more frequent checks.
Having an HVAC technician check and clean your dampers can also improve your indoor air quality. Dusty air ducts can reduce your damper’s efficiency and release a number of airborne irritants. Keeping up with regular HVAC services is the best way to ensure you have the healthiest air conditioning system.
If you inspect your dampers at home, follow manufacturer instructions and guidelines. While there are some inspections you can perform at home, professional maintenance will be more accurate and prevent any future problems.
For lower utility bills and a system that runs at peak efficiency, schedule an HVAC damper check with Bacon!
Lower Energy Bills with HVAC Damper Maintenance
Many homeowners don’t know where their HVAC dampers are or if they have them at all. If that is the case for you, it’s likely time to have your dampers inspected. HVAC equipment maintenance can easily be forgotten about but is vital for your system’s efficiency and longevity.
At Bacon, we offer free damper checks so you can lower your energy bills and stay comfortable all year long! Maximize your unit’s efficiency and save money with the help of our expert technicians.
If you can’t remember the last time you had your dampers checked, schedule an appointment with Bacon Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric.
Everybody loves Bacon! HVAC Company in Dallas-Fort Worth
Bacon Plumbing Heating Air Electric is a family-owned company committed to treating all of our customers with full respect and transparency. All of our service technicians are part of our family, equally dedicated to providing high-quality services with unmatched customer service. To learn more about HVAC dampers, call us today at (972) 791-8332 or request a service call online.
