Understanding how to maintain and adjust your HVAC Dampers and troubleshooting the system.
Warranty Expectations
Temperature variation is a normal part of homeownership, especially in homes with multiple floors and variable sun exposure. Your HVAC system and dampers offer tools to manage this, though not eliminate it. Regular seasonal adjustments and understanding your system's capabilities will go a long way toward improving comfort.
Locate Your Dampers
- Located in your mechanical closet where the air handler for your furnace and AC coil reside.
- The best way to find them is to look for the ductwork coming out of the top of your furnace.
- There will be two separate stems, one controls the lower and middle level of your home and the other controls only the third level.
- If the lever is parallel with the duct, that means it is open. If the lever is perpendicular, then the damper is closed.
What’s Covered: Improper installation and operation of the HVAC system and ductwork. Non-functional and accessible dampers as designed at closing. Seasonal performance standards that meet industry guidelines.
Note: Room-to-room temperature imbalances due to physics, sun exposure, or design limitations are not considered defects. Adjustments like damper positioning or room-specific comfort concerns typically fall under homeowner maintenance.
What to Expect:
- Temperature Variance Is Normal: Multi-story homes or rooms with unique features (like vaulted ceilings or large windows) may never reach the exact same temperature as other rooms.
- Seasonal Shifts will Impact Comfort: Depending on the time of year, airflow needs will change, requiring minor adjustments. HVAC systems are whole-home systems: They're designed for average comfort across the home, not room-by-room precision.
How We Will Help: During your warranty walkthrough, we’ll confirm damper locations and operation. If airflow issues stem from a mechanical or installation fault, we’ll repair it under warranty. [Link to Van Metre Life]
How You Can Help: Adjust Dampers as needed.
Troubleshooting HVAC Dampers
- Dampers are metal plates inside your ducts that regulate airflow to different parts of your home.
- Manual Dampers: These require seasonal adjustment via levers.
- Automatic Dampers (Zoned Systems): Controlled by thermostats and system settings.
Seasonal Adjustment Tips
For Summer (Cooling):
- Slightly close dampers on the lower floors.
- Open dampers fully on upper levels to push more cool air upward.
For Winter (Heating):
- Open dampers fully on the lower level.
- Partially close upper-level dampers to direct more warm air downward.
Test & Fine-Tune: After adjusting, give it a few hours, then check the comfort level in each room. Avoid fully closing any damper, it can harm your HVAC system.
Why Some Rooms May Always Feel Different
Despite proper damper use, certain factors impact room temperature:
- Heat Rises & Cold Sinks: Natural airflow patterns affect multi-story homes.
- Sunlight Exposure: South-facing rooms tend to be warmer; north-facing rooms cooler.
- System Design: HVAC systems are not built to offer perfect room-by-room control.
- Home Design: High ceilings or large windows can disrupt temperature consistency.