When you turn on your home’s heating or air conditioning system, you probably don’t think much beyond how hot or cool your house gets. However, many different variables are at play to help these systems function properly.
Knowing how static pressure affects your HVAC systems is essential to understanding how your HVAC system functions. Knowing what static pressure is, how it works, and how it affects your unit can help you optimize performance and avoid problems down the line.
Read on to learn more how low static pressure, high static pressure, and pressure drops can all impact the operation of your HVAC system.
What Is Static Pressure in HVAC?
Static pressure measures force per unit area exerted by a fluid on a surface. In HVAC, static pressure determines the amount of air resistance in a duct system. The static pressure of a duct system can be measured with a manometer, a device that measures the difference in pressure between two points.
Static pressure is essential in an HVAC unit because it can affect how air moves through a duct system. If the static pressure reading is too high, it can restrict the airflow and cause problems with the HVAC system.
If the static pressure is too low, it may be an indication that there is a leak in the duct system. Static pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (psi). The static pressure of a typical HVAC system should be between 0.5 and 1.0 psi.
Signs of Problems With Static Pressure in HVAC Systems
If your HVAC system isn’t working as efficiently as it should, it could be due to static pressure issues. Here are some signs to look out for:
Higher Than Average Energy Bills
If your air conditioner isn’t blowing cold enough air, it will continually run to keep the space cool. Likewise, if your furnace isn’t hot enough, it will constantly fire up to keep the temperature at a certain level. Unfortunately, both of these actions increase your energy usage and utility costs.
Have you noticed a sudden increase in your energy bills? It could be because your HVAC system must work harder to compensate for static pressure issues.
Uneven Heating or Cooling
Static pressure issues happen when there isn’t enough air flowing through certain areas of the home, usually due to blocked vents or ductwork. This can cause hot and cold spots and make certain rooms feel like they’re at a different temperature than others.
To prevent static pressure problems in your heating and cooling system, ensure your vents are open and unobstructed and that air is flowing smoothly through your ductwork.
Contact Allied Air Conditioning & Heating for an Inspection
If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it’s essential to have one of our professionals take a look at your HVAC equipment to diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action. Ignoring static pressure problems can lead to more severe issues down the line, so it’s best to nip them in the bud.
Contact Allied Air Conditioning & Heating today to schedule service with one of our team members. We’re the most trusted name for heating in Palatine, IL!
