Oregon Heating & Cooling FAQs: How Do HVAC Dampers Work?

Many of the Portland and Beaverton homeowners we service have questions about how their HVAC dampers work. Are you looking to learn more about your residential HVAC unit? Want to understand what HVAC dampers are and how they work? Our Portland and Beaverton HVAC contractors are here to help.

Residential Heating and Air Conditioning Dampers

HVAC dampers are essential to your home HVAC unit. They help regulate the temperature in your home and can help with energy efficiency. Our Oregon HVAC specialists explain the inner workings and benefits of HVAC dampers and HVAC zoning systems below. 

What are HVAC Dampers?

Dampers in your residential HVAC unit are the mechanisms that regulate temperature when using an HVAC zoning system. Zoning systems divide your home heating and cooling into different zones, giving you more options to control your air climate and energy usage. HVAC dampers are typically found in zoning systems. They monitor airflow, temperature, and humidity levels in your home, lowering or raising the zone’s temperature to your desired setting.

Damper systems function differently than residential vent systems. Closing a vent on the floor or on the wall will still allow air to travel through your ducts, thus wasting energy. HVAC dampers are located closer to the mouth of the distribution pipe, allowing them to regulate airflow as needed. 

How do HVAC Dampers Work?

HVAC dampers come in two types, manual and motorized: 

• Manual dampers require the homeowner to twist a handle in order to regulate the airflow into a particular zone. 
• Motorized or automatic dampers work with your programmable zoning system and function on their own. These types of dampers tend to be more convenient and energy-efficient for homeowners because they work in tandem with programmable thermostats. 

Is a Zoning System Right for You?

A typical zoning system is comprised of dampers, a control panel, and temperature controllers for each zone. These elements work together to keep your home climate comfortable for the whole family. A residential zoning system transfers warm or cool air to individual rooms, or zones, instead of forcing air through your entire home to maintain your ideal temperature. 

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, home zoning systems can reduce heating and cooling bills by up to 30 percent. If you are looking to increase energy efficiency and save on utility bills, it might be time to consider a residential zoning system. Our expert HVAC contractors in Beaverton and Portland can help you choose the right solution for your home. 

Residential HVAC Service, Repair & Installation in Beaverton & Portland

Considering a zoning system? Looking to repair or upgrade your existing model? AAA Heating and Cooling is at your service. We proudly serve the Portland-metro and Beaverton areas. Contact our team today! 

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