Have you ever noticed your home feeling uncomfortable even though your HVAC system is running? Maybe the air feels sticky, uneven, or your system seems louder than usual. In many Colorado homes, the issue is not a broken part at first. It often starts with incorrect fan speed settings.
Fan speed controls how fast air moves through your HVAC system. When that speed is not set correctly, several problems can follow.
Problems Caused By Fan Speed That Is Too High
What happens when air moves too fast? It sounds helpful, but it actually creates trouble.
When airflow rushes across the coil too quickly, moisture does not have enough time to leave the air. This is why homes can feel cool but still muggy. You may also notice the air from the vents feels only slightly cool instead of refreshing.
Fast airflow can also cause frequent system starts and stops. This wears out the compressor faster and drives up energy bills. In older Colorado homes, high air pressure can even stress ductwork, causing noise, leaks, or airflow loss.
Problems Caused By Fan Speed That Is Too Low
Now let’s flip the situation. What if the airflow is too slow?
Low fan speed allows the evaporator coil to get too cold. When this happens, ice can form on the coil. Once ice builds up, cooling performance drops quickly, and water damage can follow when it melts.
Low airflow can also harm the compressor. Liquid refrigerant may return to parts designed only for vapor, which leads to serious mechanical damage. Over time, the blower motor may overheat, creating burning smells or complete failure.
Warning Signs Of Incorrect Fan Speed
How can you tell if the fan speed is wrong? Listen and observe.
Do you hear whistling or rattling near vents? That often points to airflow moving too fast. Humming, weak airflow, or uneven room temperatures often point to airflow that is too slow. Rising utility bills are another common clue.
Local Adjustments are Important for Colorado Homes
Colorado homes face unique challenges like altitude, dry air, and strong seasonal temperature swings. Fan speed settings that work elsewhere may not work well here. That is why proper local adjustment matters.
At SWAN Plumbing, Heating And Air Conditioning, INC, we help homeowners across the area fine-tune airflow for real comfort. Our technicians understand how Colorado conditions affect HVAC performance and make adjustments that protect your system long term.
