Most homes, whether hot or cold, invest in an HVAC system. However, you may not be familiar with the components that make up the system. Read on to find out what HVAC dampers are and how they work in Oceanside, CA.
What Are HVAC Dampers?
Dampers are an important part of a zoned HVAC system. For example, consider a dam. When closed, the flap prevents air from flowing through it, as a dam works with water.
HVAC dampers are an important part of zoning systems. The dampers are usually located between the main line and the circular supply duct.
They act similar valves in the plumbing, determining how much heating/cooling air can enter your property to achieve your desired setting. Dampers allow you to adjust the amount of air supplied to different areas of your property.
How HVAC Dampers Work
As mentioned above, an HVAC damper acts similar to a valve. Their task is to determine the amount of hot or cold air that enters different parts of the duct. The ductwork controls the amount of heated or cooled air that reaches various parts of the house to reach the different set points.
Closing the damper will direct the airflow in different directions. So, if you want to cool or heat a specific area, the dampers can do it.
Unlike closing vents, dampers are relatively close to the air source. This allows you to change the airflow more efficiently without creating pressure imbalances.
Different Types of Air Conditioning Dampers
Types of dampers vary in function, shape, and size. Control methods are also different. They include automatic control or manual control.
Automatic HVAC dampers are dampers that require motors to open and close panels and valves. You can control them remotely. Plus, you don’t have to worry about weather changes because they can adapt.
When it comes to manual HVAC dampers, on the other hand, you can control manual dampers by valves outside the duct. You can open and close the valves by simply moving them up and down. As for maintenance, it is less expensive than automatic support.
Butterfly Flat Dampers in HVAC Systems
Butterfly flat dish dampers are shock absorbers that look like small butterflies sitting on pipes, hence their name. They’re easy to install and take up less space.
Their purpose is to keep the air flowing in one direction. So, if you need a damper that can both heat and cool, a butterfly damper is a good choice.
Inlet Vane Dampers in HVAC Systems
If a damper is like a small door that blocks airflow, an intake vane damper is like a small vent that opens to allow air to flow through. They don’t restrict or direct airflow, but they do help control air pressure moving throughout the HVAC system.
Blade and Louver Dampers in HVAC Systems
The blade dampers have two blades and look like large fans that close slowly. The damping effect of these dampers on the airflow occurs where the vanes touch. This causes a more violent stoppage of airflow than a butterfly damper, but a blade damper works in both hot and cold seasons.
Louver dampers are the most commonly used air conditioning dampers in HVAC systems. Users love them because they can match the size of any ductwork.
Two Advantages of HVAC Dampers
The most notable advantage is the ability to control the temperature of a typical home. This is important for families with multiple rooms that require conditioning.
Secondly, HVAC dampers can help to relieve the burden of paying high energy bills. Whenever air flow gets restricted, the HVAC system will use low energy. So, as a long-term plan, you will minimize your air conditioning expenses.
Contact West Coast Heating, Air Conditioning and Solar for HVAC system service as our experts can diagnose low airflow and duct leaks. If you have a problem with your HVAC duct damper, we can help you. We also provide comprehensive heating, cooling, and solar panel services.
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