What Causes High Static Pressure in HVAC?

You might have heard the term “high static pressure” applied to HVAC systems. But you may not know what it means. You probably also want to know what causes high static pressure in HVAC systems. Is this something you should worry about with your heating and cooling system?

Our team at Crew Heating & Cooling provides expert HVAC services in Humble,TX. So we explained high static pressure and how it could affect you below. Call us at 832-345-9932 to book services with our team.

What Does Static Pressure Mean?

Static pressure, commonly referred to as air resistance, is the force that restricts air flow throughout your HVAC. Vents, obstacles trapped inside of air ducts, and dirty components can raise static pressure. Low air quality and high energy costs often accompany an HVAC system with high static pressure.

Although you can reduce and prevent high static pressure, you can never fully eliminate it. Each air conditioner or heater encounters some form of resistance during its operation. You can, however, familiarize yourself with what causes high static pressure in HVAC systems and learn how to effectively reduce it.

Indicators of High Static Pressure

What does high static pressure look like to the average homeowner? First, you might notice that your electricity bills have gone through the roof. High static pressure forces the HVAC system to work harder. In turn, it uses more resources.

You might also step into one room that feels a little cooler. Walk into the next room, and it feels warmer with more stagnant air. High static pressure causes uneven dispersion of conditioned air throughout the house.

Finally, your system makes a lot of racket. Noise indicates that the components struggle to function properly. This affects the lifespan and efficiency of your system.

Restrictive Filters

What causes high static pressure in HVAC systems? Restrictive filters are among the main culprits. Filter restriction is also easy to prevent.

Air filters gather dust, dirt, grime, and other particles throughout operation cycles. These particles prevent proper air flow in return ducts. Check and change your air filter regularly to prevent restriction.

If you use an air filter with a high MERV rating, you might have selected a filter that doesn’t work with your unit. Ask an HVAC technician for suggestions on air filters that both effectively remove particles without overworking your system and causing equipment failure.

Small Return Vents

Return vents, typically located toward the center of your home, pull air from indoors back through the system. The return vent should be large enough to accommodate plentiful air flow. An undersized vent not only restricts flow, but it can also indicate a larger problem with poor HVAC design.

Inadequate Coils

Coils assist with conditioning and transporting air throughout the system. They accommodate refrigerants, which can remove or replenish heat to the air depending on your thermostat settings. Coils fall victim to dust and dirt, which prevents them from transferring heat properly.

Another issue is coils that don’t fit your HVAC unit’s needs. When a coil is too small, it cannot process air as quickly. Thus, your system won’t circulate air as needed, creating resistance that puts stress on other components.

An HVAC technician can pinpoint whether the coils need cleaning or replacement. Clean coils that fit your unit will reduce static pressure by circulating ample air as your system calls for it.

How to Prevent High Static Pressure

Are there ways to prevent high static pressure in your HVAC system? Fortunately, you can do a few things to prevent the static pressure from rising and wreaking havoc on your HVAC system.

Purchase annual or bi-annual maintenance services. An HVAC technician can troubleshoot, clean, and repair small issues that increase static pressure over time. Coil cleaning and filter replacement are among the many helpful tasks maintenance services include.
Change your air filter once every three months or more. Fresh air filters greatly improve air quality while decreasing static pressure.
Choose HVAC experts to install or repair your system. Technicians who specialize in HVAC services will always complete the job correctly! Attempting DIY projects or hiring contractors who lack HVAC experience comes with a steep price.