A damper is a component in charge of controlling the airflow in an HVAC system. It also helps in adjusting your room temperature. Every damper in air conditioning, heating systems, or other air-handling devices is controlled manually or automatically. The types of dampers on HVAC affect the price and can also impact performance.

Types of dampers on HVAC

1. Single-blade dampers on HVAC 

Single-blade dampers are generally referred to as butterfly dampers. Butterfly dampers on HVAC can be used in various applications but are typically used for flow control and low leakage or isolation applications. These single-blade dampers can also be designed to withstand extreme design pressures and very high temperatures while also keeping pressure drops low through the system.

2. Multi-zone dampers

These dampers are used in buildings with a single air handling unit, such as single-building schools or small-scale office buildings. These large assemblies comprised multiple dampers, each tied to a specific zone, connecting to various ducts, and controlling the entire system’s airflow. 

3. HVAC dampers types- Radial-style dampers

Radial-style dampers use more than one rotating blade to provide precise airflow control. Radial-style dampers open like a fanned-out deck of playing cards, allowing the designer to precisely diffuse and control airflow. Radial-style dampers have openings and notches in specific locations on the blades to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.

4. Barometric “Bypass” damper

Barometric “Bypass” dampers are rather elegantly designed little fittings with no electricity required and minimal moving parts. They have a handle similar to the “standoff” style but also a weight that helps up or down. In addition, these HVAC dampers types allow air to escape when a certain peak barometric pressure is reached, equalizing the air pressure on either side of the metal fitting according to how you adjusted the weight.

5. Volume control damper

A volume control damper is a manually operated damper that allows airflow control in an HVAC unit. It is generally installed in between air ducts with a handle sticking out. House owners and HVAC technicians can turn the handle that rotates the damper’s blades to regulate airflow.

6. Guillotine dampers

Wherever positive isolation is required, you can use a guillotine damper. It is due to its best sealing ability. In addition, we can use it temporarily during the maintenance of your HVAC system for regulating airflow in a zoning duct system.

How to check if the HVAC dampers open or closed?

One key aspect is understanding when HVAC dampers open or closed. First, you need to locate the damper and look at its position. If the HVAC damper is angled down, it’s closed. If the HVAC damper is in a horizontal position, then it’s almost definitely open.

Final words

HVAC dampers work hand in hand with the thermostat to provide your home with the desired air quality. Now that you know the types and purposes of dampers on HVAC. So, contact us at Fairfax Air Cleaning to learn more about our indoor air quality and duct cleaning services.