Author: Jeff O'Hara
Quick Summary
- Several things may cause homeowners to experience weak HVAC airflow, including a dirty air filter, blocked vents, and more.
- Some airflow issues can be addressed yourself, while others require the help of a professional HVAC company like Nick’s Air Conditioning & Heating.
- Following a routine HVAC airflow improvement checklist is a smart way to prevent most airflow issues before they start to affect your comfort.
Struggling With Weak AC Airflow? Here’s What You Need To Know
Houston has a subtropical climate, and summers are only projected to get hotter in the area as time goes on. If you’re a Houston area homeowner struggling with weak HVAC airflow, it’s important to understand how and why this occurs. The experts at Nick’s Air Conditioning & Heating offer insights into common causes of weak airflow in your HVAC system, including how to fix it and when to call our team for maintenance or professional repairs.
What Causes Weak Airflow in My HVAC System?
Not every HVAC system or home is the same, which means the specific weak AC airflow causes that you experience may be different from others. However, there are some common reasons why your system might suffer from weak airflow in the peak summer heat.
Clogged or dirty air filters
If your HVAC system’s air filter gets dirty or becomes clogged, the air can’t flow freely. This is one of the most common reasons why you may experience weak airflow issues. Fortunately, this issue is easy to solve with proactive routine maintenance. To solve the issue, simply replace your current air filter with a clean new one and see if it helps to improve system airflow.
Blocked or closed vents
In order to maintain reliable airflow, your supply and return vents must be free and clear of obstructions. One way to handle this problem is to make sure that nothing like furniture or area rugs is covering or blocking your vents. Having multiple obstructed vents forces your system to work harder, which may not only cause airflow problems but also issues with energy efficiency. Once you’ve removed anything blocking the vents, double-check to confirm that all of them are open, as this simple step is one of the easiest ways to fix weak airflow HVAC issues.
Ductwork leaks or damage
Unless you have a ductless mini-split system, your HVAC relies on a system of ductwork (or air ducts) to carry and deliver cooled air throughout your home. However, if the ductwork is leaky, cracked, loose, or damaged in any way, it will impact airflow and cause it to be weak or nonexistent. While you can attempt to look for ductwork issues yourself, we recommend scheduling a professional ductwork inspection so the team at Nick’s can identify and repair them for you. If it turns out the issue is not related to HVAC ductwork airflow issues, we’ll perform a comprehensive inspection of your system to determine the cause.
Blower fan problems
The blower fan moves air through the ductwork and out of your vents. However, voltage issues can make the fan run slower, which results in poor HVAC airflow in your Houston area home. A malfunctioning HVAC blower motor creating weak airflow will make your home feel extremely warm and humid. Bent or damaged fan blades may also lead to weaker airflow, while worn-out bearings or issues with internal electrical connections may also affect the blower fan assembly.
Dirty or obstructed condenser unit
The outdoor condenser unit is important for proper system performance. The compressor, capacitor, and condenser coil share the same space in this part of the system. Debris such as leaves, twigs, dirt, or even outdoor furniture can block the condenser unit, leading to noticeable airflow issues inside your home. Start by removing any debris near and directly on the condenser unit and inside the fan assembly to see if this resolves the problem.
DIY Airflow Improvement Checklist
Weak airflow not only compromises your comfort, but it may also lead to higher energy bills. When the air conditioner’s airflow is restricted, it forces your system to work harder, compromising its performance. Refer to this DIY airflow improvement checklist to ensure your HVAC system is operating as it should:
- Inspect your air filters every one to three months and replace them if they appear dirty or clogged.
- Check your outdoor condenser unit regularly and remove any excess debris on or around it to optimize airflow.
- Schedule routine maintenance, including ductwork inspections, system cleanings, and tune-ups to prevent costly repairs and stressful breakdowns.
- Make sure that all of your supply and return vents are open and completely free of any obstructions at all times.
- Contact the certified technicians at Nick’s to confirm that your system is properly sized for your home, as an improperly sized unit may significantly impact airflow and overall performance.
When to Call an HVAC Professional
While changing the air filter or removing blockages from your vents may solve some airflow issues, others may require the help of an HVAC professional. Here’s when you should call the pros if you’re facing HVAC airflow problems:
- Electrical problems: Burning smells, frequent breaker trips, or flickering lights need a professional diagnosis.
- Persistent airflow issues: Ongoing airflow problems may signal a serious issue — call the experts.
- Strange noises or odors: Unusual sounds, musty smells, or burning odors require licensed HVAC help.
Why Choose Nick’s Air Conditioning for Airflow Repairs
There are many reasons to choose Nick’s Air Conditioning for airflow repairs, including:
- Our amazing team members: Fully trained, licensed, and background-checked for your complete satisfaction.
- Our flexible financing: Multiple options with reasonable rates and convenient monthly payments.
- Our local expertise: Serving Houston-area customers for over 40 years as your trusted HVAC experts.
- Our maintenance plans: Affordable VIP Maintenance Program with annual inspections and added savings year-round.
Service Areas in Houston, TX
We proudly serve Houston area homeowners in the following zip codes: 77002, 77003, 77004, 77005, 77006, 77007, 77008, 77009, 77018, 77019, 77024, 77027, 77030, 77036, 77042, 77046, 77055, 77056, 77057, 77063, 77074, 77079, 77081, 77084, 77092, 77096, and 77098.
Contact Nick’s Today!
If your air conditioning seems like it’s “underperforming” this summer, call Nick’s Air Conditioning & Heating to schedule an HVAC check-up. As you can see, there are several reasons why your air conditioning may have airflow issues. Nick’s licensed and experienced HVAC technicians can pinpoint the cause of your air conditioner issues, identify the necessary repairs, and resolve the problem. Contact us for service today and relax — we’re on the way!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my upper floor feel hotter even when the AC is on?
Hot air naturally rises, so if your upper floor feels hotter even when the AC is on, it’s likely due to that hot air being trapped upstairs. Other causes may be from poor or inadequate attic insulation, faulty or leaking ductwork, or an improperly configured HVAC system.
Is weak airflow a sign that I need a new HVAC system?
In most cases, weak airflow is not necessarily a sign that you need a new HVAC system. Unblocking and opening your vents, replacing your air filter, and checking your condenser unit and ductwork should solve the issue, but if you have an older system or persistent airflow problems, you may need a replacement.
What should I check before calling a technician for airflow issues?
Before you call a technician for airflow issues, make sure that your air filter is clean and free of blockages. Look around and remove debris from around the outdoor condenser unit, and make sure that all of your vents are open and free of obstructions.