The Way to Replace HVAC Dampers
Manual dampers, typically found in sizes ranging from 4 to 10 inches, do not tend to workout. After installation, these easy galvanized sheet-metal circles pivot on two hooks inserted in holes you drill in a distribution duct’s start collar or the sides of a register can. You control them using a bar. You might want to update to more fancy dampers, for example automatic balancing dampers with integrated electronics. For one hour or two so it’s possible to substitute the dampers you will want to become an HVAC apprentice.
Access the basement duct work to locate the existing dampers, either on the source side of the furnace plenum or in the register boot. Check to see whether the section of duct work nearest the damper has some type of support — such as hangers, brackets, straps or cables. Add a service strap if it does not.
Score the duct tape or foil at each side of the damper using a utility knife — one end and possibly an elbow or a section and plenum collar or the register boot and another will link. Remove through the from the tape. Or, even if the tape is loose and peelingpull the tape off and unfasten the screws.
Pull the duct section from the damper allow it to hang suspended safely. Remove the damper and set it aside.
Brush the crimped edge of the damper with adhesive; you might want to retrofit your additional duct sections too and will achieve protection with adhesive than with duct tape against air leaks. Brush the crimped surface of boot or the duct .
Slide the crimped facet of this damper either into the uncrimped finish of your round duct section that points away from the plenum collar or into the register boot. The end has to be pointing away from the furnace, so the atmosphere goes the seam when the damper is open, without any leaking. With an damper, look closely at the motor actuator’s position, and rotate the damper required. For a horizontal duct, set the top or side of the duct with the motor actuator; don’t place it on the bottom. In case you mount the damper vertically beneath a 18, It’s possible to place the motor actuator anywhere you need.
Press on the uncrimped side of the damper in the opposing side of the duct run, which will be a start collar or the crimped end of the duct run.
Secure each end of the damper with three sheet metal screws, or more for large-diameter dampers.
Paint the joints with additional adhesive. Embed fiberglass mesh tape in the coating, and paint another coat of the seams of the damper, as well as mastic on the tape.