What Is an HVAC Damper & Do I Need One?

What Is a Zoning System?

Most homes in Atlantic Highlands have a single thermostat to control the heating and cooling. While this is sufficient in most cases, there are some limitations, such as a thermostat mounted in a room with direct sunlight. A zoning system separates your home into individual zones, and each zone has its own thermostat. The zoning system also relies on dampers inside the ducts to control airflow.

What Are HVAC Dampers?

HVAC dampers are rectangular or round devices that fit inside your ductwork. A door on the damper opens and closes automatically to control how air flows through the ducts. When the door is open, air passes to the smaller sections of ductwork that service that particular zone. If the damper door is closed, air is delivered only to other zones in your home.

Types of HVAC Dampers

There are a few different HVAC damper designs used to ensure a proper fit in your ductwork, as well as efficient operation of your zoning system. Blade dampers are constructed with metal plates mounted inside a rectangular frame. A blade damper may have one or two plates that open and close. Guillotine dampers are considered the best for sealing airflow inside the ducts. Similar to blade dampers, louver dampers have a series of smaller metal pieces that open and close, similar to a vent for your HVAC system. Two other HVAC damper designs are butterfly flat dish and inlet vane.

How Do HVAC Dampers Work?

The thermostats for your zoning system control the opening and closing of the HVAC dampers. When any thermostat detects that a zone in your house needs additional heated or cooled air, it triggers the main HVAC unit. Dampers are closed off to zones that are already at the desired temperature.

Installing HVAC Dampers

Installing a zoning system and HVAC dampers is relatively straightforward. Start by having a professional come by to evaluate your current system and define the most energy-efficient zoning design. Then, schedule a convenient time to install the system. On the day of the appointment, technicians install the new thermostats and place the dampers inside the ducts. Dampers are installed approximately four to six feet from the primary trunk of your ductwork, though this can vary. Once the system is installed, they’ll walk you through how to use your new zoning system.

What Are Manual HVAC Dampers?

Manual HVAC dampers work the same as automatic models. The primary difference is that you have to manually open and close the dampers. Manual dampers are controlled by valves mounted on the external surface of the ducts. Although this may be a more affordable option, manual HVAC dampers don’t work as well as automatic dampers because you have to remember to open and close them.

Do HVAC Dampers Save on Energy?

HVAC dampers do save on energy use. Your heating and cooling system runs less often and for shorter periods of time, which means the equipment uses less energy overall. On average, Atlantic Highlands homes see a 30% reduction in monthly energy costs with HVAC dampers.

Do I Have to Replace My HVAC Equipment for Dampers?

Assuming that the HVAC system and ducts are in good shape, you don’t need to replace your equipment or existing ductwork. If the technician finds any problems during the evaluation, he will provide recommendations on whether your unit needs furnace repair or whether a new air conditioning and heating system installation will be necessary. He may also recommend new energy-efficient equipment.

Does Closing Vents Work the Same as HVAC Dampers?

Closing vents to address uneven temperatures is a common practice among homeowners in Atlantic Highlands. However, this does not work the same as dampers. Dampers control airflow from the main trunk of your ductwork, which prevents air from flowing backward. Closing your vents creates a backflow that makes your heating and cooling system work harder. Customers are advised to never close vents in their homes.