When researching dampers for your heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) system’s ductwork, you may encounter balancing dampers. They offer a simple and cost-effective solution for pressure balancing problems. If one room in your home has higher air pressure than another room in your home, you may want to install a balancing damper. It can “balance” the pressure between the two rooms while simultaneously improving your HVAC system’s performance.

What Are Balancing Dampers?

Balancing dampers are valve-like air control devices that are used for pressure balancing purposes. They are installed directly in the ductwork – typically between two rooms with different pressure.

Most balancing dampers feature a set of horizontal blades. HVAC technicians can open or close these blades to regulate airflow. HVAC technicians will first measure the pressure of the two rooms. Using this information, they will adjust the balancing damper’s blades to balance the pressure between the two rooms.

With balancing dampers, HVAC technicians can eliminate pressure balancing problems. They can install the balancing dampers between rooms with uneven pressure. After adjusting the balancing dampers, the rooms will experience even pressure.

Other Types of Dampers

In addition to balancing dampers, there are other types of dampers. Control dampers look like balancing dampers. The difference is that control dampers are used in zoned HVAC systems to allow or restrict the flow of air through a ductwork conduit, whereas balancing dampers are used to balance the air between two rooms.

There are also butterfly dampers. Butterfly dampers receive their namesake from their butterfly-shaped blades. They don’t feature the same horizontal blades as balancing dampers and control dampers. Instead, butterfly dampers feature a pair of large panels that open and close like the wings of a butterfly.

Do You Need Balancing Dampers?

Unless your home suffers from pressure balancing problems, you typically won’t need to install any balancing dampers. Balancing dampers are used specifically to create even, consistent pressure between two rooms.

With uneven or inconsistent pressure, your HVAC system may struggle to warm and cool your home. Some rooms may feel noticeably warmer or cooler than others. Not only will this create an uncomfortable living space for you and your family, but pressure balancing problems such as this can lead to higher utility costs.

If you believe your home suffers from pressure balancing problems, you should get your HVAC system inspected by a professional. The HVAC technician may recommend one or more balancing dampers.