![]() ![]() Central vacuums send household air outside and can interfere with the air supply for other appliances in the home. Traditional plug-in vacuums do not create depressurization like central vacuums. This can be dangerous and result in backdrafting of appliances, leading to a buildup of deadly fumes including carbon monoxide. Similar to combustion appliances, exhaust fans can remove too much air and cause negative air pressure. Houses with negative air pressure may cause flue gases to backdraft into your home. Gas stoves and fireplaces burn fuel, remove oxygen, and require makeup air. If a blower motor is running at maximum and forcing too much air into a room, it can result in an off-balanced space. The problem here can be as simple as an air conditioner that is set too high. ![]() In addition to negative air pressure, the Department of Energy states that poorly sealed ducts contribute to higher energy bills. Pressure test and measure leakage from your ducts to ensure that they are well-sealed. Negative air pressure occurs when air leaks out or into the ducts. More pressure is created on upper levels and the air is pushed out, while air is drawn in on lower levels to compensate.Īlthough it is difficult to avoid wind pressure and the stack effect, there are some ways you can make a difference in your home’s pressure: Duct LeakageĪir distribution is compromised if your ductwork is poorly designed or has holes. The ‘ stack effect‘ occurs when warm air rises to upper levels in your home. Wind forces air in on some sides and forces it out on others. The only way to stop wind pressure is to be vigilant when you are sealing up your home. Two causes of negative air pressure are unable to be controlled: wind pressure and the ‘stack effect’. Negative air pressure is a dangerous and expensive problem in homes across the country. Your air conditioner and furnace end up working harder to counteract the outside air from rushing into your home. ![]() Negative air pressure and HVAC systems are linked. Condensation can lead to mold and mildew growth and deterioration of home building materials. This warm, humid air coming in from the outside may cause condensation and create a host of problems on its own. In the summer, negative air pressure draws hot air in and increases cooling costs and discomfort. The air in your home becomes dry and causes nose bleeds, chapped lips, and static. Your furnace needs to work overtime to compensate for the cold air that has entered the home. In the winter, negative air pressure draws cold air in and increases heating costs. The effect that negative air pressure has on your home can vary depending on the season. The resulting negative air pressure means the home prioritizes trying to suck air in rather than pushing it out. The amount of air pushed out can be significant with no easy way for replacement air to re-enter the home. Stale, polluted air trapped in your home is not.Īppliances like bathroom fans, central vacuums, range hoods, and dryers push air out of the home. However, over-insulating may restrict fresh air from entering the home. We’ve talked about the importance of insulation for an energy efficient home. Negative air pressure occurs when the pressure inside your home is lower than the pressure outside. Unfortunately, we’re discussing something that is almost as scary and is fairly common in homes of all ages. Have you ever experienced doors in your home unexpectedly open or close? Do your curtains sway when the windows are shut?ĭo you hear whistling and other odd noises? Are some rooms unusually hot or cold?įortunately, this article isn’t about paranormal activity in your home. ![]()
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