News

IMPROPER AC AIR FLOW COULD LEAD

TO SUMMER HOT SPOTS

TAMPA – July 1, 2008 – Each year when the summer temperature ascends higher and higher, the possibility of too much heat can cause sickness for the elderly and young alike.  Not only can this happen on the outside of the home, but on the inside as well states Garry Simpson, owner, Simpson Air.

“The hot and humid conditions that cause heat exhaustion, headaches and even stroke can be replicated on the inside of the home because of improper air flow,” states Simpson.  “Holes in air ducts, clogged coils and dirty filters can prevent fresh cool air from being transported to the furthermost rooms.  As a result, room temperatures and humidity levels can rise to uncomfortable levels.” 

The problems that arise can be prevented by having a home’s air system checked by a trained professional.  Here are some guidelines according to Simpson:

Check and Correct Airflow

For central air conditioners, there is an optimal air flow for comfort and savings.  With proper air flow, every section of the home would be the same temperature without any “hot” spots.  When used in conjunction with ceiling fans, cool air can easily and efficiently be circulated through each room.

When checking air flow, trained professionals will first start with a check of the evaporator coil to determine how much air is passing through.  Sometimes, a simple coil cleaning and/or filter change will improve results.  Then, most trained professionals will use digital handheld anemometers (air flow meters), magnehelic (static pressure) and other instruments to test and measure temperature, relative humidity, pressure against the manufacturer’s specifications. 

States Simpson, “If the duct system is not properly sized, too much or too little air flow causes efficiency drops and accelerates the wear on system components trying to pull more, which can lead to premature failure.”

A good contractor will test the air flow of your cooling system and make adjustments for optimal performance. Typically, testing and adjustments should be done after duct leakage repairs have been completed.

Seal and Insulate Ducts

If you’re purchasing a central air conditioner, ask your contractor about the condition of your air ducts. A good contractor should be able to test your air ducts to identify and seal leaks.  If you find a leak yourself, duct sealing should be done using mastic, metal-backed tape or aerosol-based sealing.

In some instances, your contractor may advise you that it is necessary to replace or add ducts. If there are insufficient supply registers or return air grilles in your home, it may be necessary to install additional ducts or modify grills to accommodate the need.

Simpson cautions homeowners about contractors offering duct cleaning services.  “In the North, ducts made of sheet metal can be cleaned with the right equipment.  But in Florida, the ducts are made of a synthetic flexible material that can be punctured if someone tries to clean it. 

“The best duct cleaning is good filter maintenance on a monthly basis and an annual cleaning.”

Simpson Air is the retail division of Simpson Mechanical, one of the most trusted air conditioning companies in Tampa Bay.  Created in 1999, Simpson Mechanical is a Carrier factory authorized dealer and is renowned for its problem solving, customer care and service programs.