Why Is There No Air Coming From Vents?

If you have forced air heating (a system with a furnace and ducts rather than a boiler with baseboards or radiators) in your Worcester-area home, then one of the most common problems you will encounter is low airflow.

The classic sign of low airflow, of course, is not enough air coming from your vents; other signs include having hot and cold spots in your home and experiencing air pressure problems (doors closing on their own, etc.).

The good news is that the underlying cause of many airflow problems can be addressed relatively easily and with minimal (often no) financial commitment.

Troubleshooting vent problems

Here are some of the most common causes of flow issues in your forced air system, and what to do to fix them:

1. Blocked vents – Furniture, drapery, and other obstructions can block vents, disrupting airflow and causing your furnace to overwork to keep you warm. The result? Higher bills and less comfort. Keep vents clear whenever possible.
2. A clogged air filter – When and furnace air filter gets blocked with dust, pet fur and dander, and other debris, airflow suffers. Aim to check your furnace air filter about once a month during heating season, changing them when needed.
3. Ductwork problems – Did you know that as much as 30 percent of the air you paid to heat could be getting lost along the way as a result of leaky, undersized, or poorly installed ductwork? Consider having a professional ductwork inspection to assess how significant the problem is in your home; you should be able to get one for free, or for a minimal investment.
4. A broken thermostat – Thermostats are the “brain” of your home heating system – and when that brain stops working, airflow suffers. If you think you might have a problem thermostat, contact a home heating expert.
5. A problem blower fan – Blower fans force air through your ductwork to deliver heat to your space. But blower fans have motors that can slow or break down; if they do, poor airflow can result.
6. Poor size matching – If your furnace is too large for your living space, it will do its job too quickly, then shut off before repeating the process. This “cycling” will not only affect airflow, it will also wear out parts prematurely and accelerate the need for heating repairs; it can also make it more difficult to clear humidity from your living space, since the air won’t flow for long enough to clear moisture from the air.
7. An old or poorly maintained heating system – The performance of an older heating system can drop off quickly and dramatically. That’s why it’s so important to get professional heating maintenance throughout your equipment’s lifespan – and to replace it when you notice signs of old age (consistently poor air flow, for example).

Experiencing problems with your forced air heating system, or looking for a heating system upgrade for your Massachusetts home this fall? We can help! Contact the pros at Pioneer Oil and Propane today to learn more about the propane- and oil-fired furnaces and boilers we sell, install, and maintain!