When airflow is restricted or blocked, indoor air pollutants can build up and negatively impact the indoor air quality. Since the average person spends about 90% of their total time indoors every day, failure to properly treat disrupted airflow can lead to a variety of health complications. Illnesses such as asthma, hypersensitivity to pneumonitis, and humidifier fever have been linked to poor airflow within buildings.
It should be noted that the people most susceptible to the effects of poor indoor air quality are those suffering from allergies or asthma, respiratory diseases, people with compromised immune systems, and the elderly.
Potential Causes of Poor Airflow:
Clogged air ducts – due to excess dust, construction debris, pet fur, or objects that have fallen through the vents
Collapsed insulation inside the air ducts – if the interior of your ductwork is lined with insulation, it can break down over time and may have collapsed, trapping the clean air behind it. Insulation can also collapse if it was installed improperly.
Balancing – could be an issue if there are huge discrepancies in the force, humidity or temperatures of the air within a building that shares the same air handling system. For example, in an air conditioned office building, some occupants may complain that they’re freezing, while other workspaces are too hot. This means the system isn’t balanced and could be the result of clogged ductwork or collapsed insulation, in which case we recommend an air duct system cleaning. If your system is clean, we recommend taking CFM readings to determine whether or not your air system needs to be balanced. Balancing is not a service we provide, however we can suggest companies that do. We recommend balancing a system after it’s been cleaned to ensure air is reaching all parts of home or building at a similar CFM.
HVAC needs maintenance - HVAC systems must be routinely inspected and maintained in order to ensure normal airflow. While AirCare does not service HVAC systems, we are happy to recommend service companies to our customers.
Poor Airflow Solutions:
There are ways to both treat and prevent uneven or restricted airflow in your home or building. Exhaust fans and systems should be in place and operating in problem areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements and attics to constantly remove contaminants and moisture. Regular air duct cleaning should be performed to remove built-up contaminants and maintain healthy indoor air quality. Residential air duct system cleanings should be scheduled every two to five years. Non-residential buildings should have annual or bi-annual cleanings. | 
