Causes of Weak Airflow from Furnace

Blocked or Dirty Air Filters

Air filters are an important component of your furnace. They help maintain your indoor air quality by trapping dust, debris, allergens and other airborne particles. 

Over time, these air filters will accumulate those pollutants and particles. This can cause your air filters to become clogged or overly dirty, which hinders the airflow through your furnace system. This affects heating performance and can also put a strain on the blower motor.

To avoid this from happening, we suggest prioritizing regular furnace maintenance. Check them monthly and inspect their cleanliness. If you notice a significant amount of dirt, it is time to clean or replace them. If you use disposable filters, they generally should be replaced every one to three months. 

A professional can also recommend different filter upgrades that may last longer.

Damaged or Leaky Ductwork

The ductwork in your home helps distribute the heated air from your furnace into different rooms throughout the house. Your ducts basically act as a pathway network to make sure the air travels effectively and efficiently. This of course only happens if your ducts are properly sealed.

When your ductwork is damaged or has a leak, this will really impact the airflow from your furnace. Problems with your ductwork can arise from old age, improper installation, or other external factors and accidental damage.

To find out if your ducts have a leak, first perform a visual inspection of areas that are easily visible to you and try to spot any holes, loose connections or disconnected portions of the duct. You can also try listening for air leaks while your furnace is running. An air leak would sound like a hissing or whistling. 

If you’re still unsure, the best bet is to hire a professional to examine your ductwork, like the team here at Midwest Duct Cleaning.

Blower Motor Problems

A vital piece of the furnace system, the blower motor draws air from the return ducts and passes it through the heat exchanger to get warmed before pushing it out through the supply ducts. It ensures proper distribution throughout your home.

After experiencing wear and tear from operating over time, the blower motor can experience failur or a significantly reduced performance. To help extend the longevity of the blower motor, we suggest scheduling regular maintenance like lubrication or cleaning.

If you suspect that your blower motor isn’t operating correctly, be sure to check that motor is running while your furnace is turned on. If it doesn’t appear to be working, check the power supply to be sure the problem isn’t stemming from the circuit breaker or a wired connection.

Other Issues That Can Cause Weak Airflow:

• Incorrect fan speed
• Oversized furnace
• Undersized furnace