DIY AC Vent Damper

The purposes of dampers in an air-conditioning system is to balance out the airflow from room to room. Dampers are circular doors that fit inside a duct by means of a collar. The damper door swings open and closed, either electrically or mechanically, to regulate the air flow. A do-it-yourself air damper project isn't difficult, and it's a good way to learn the workings of your heating/ventilation/air-conditioning system, also known as HVAC.

Utility knife
Screwdriver
Dust rag
Dust brush
Dust mask
Measuring tape
Awl
Rotary drill

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the power to the air-handler unit if it is currently running.
- 2
  Locate the spot in the ductwork where you want to install the damper.
- 3
  Remove any tape or clamps connecting the ductwork together in this spot. Pull the ductwork apart. Use a utility knife to cut apart any tape and a screwdriver to loosen clamps.
- 4
  Clean inside the ductwork with a dust rag or brush.
- 5
  Slip one end of the damper inside the first side of the ductwork. Some dampers require holes punched in the side of the ductwork so they can be anchored in place with plastic screws. Measure the screw opening along the side of the damper with measuring tape and make a hole on the ductwork in the appropriate spot with an awl or rotary drill. Other dampers have a collar that needs to be tightened with a clamp after it is positioned.
- 6
  Repeat the connection process for the other side of the damper to the ductwork.
- 7
  Connect the damper to the electrical system, if this is an electric type. Shut off power to the electrical system before screwing the wires to the damper terminals.

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