Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) measures airflow volume—how many cubic feet of air pass a point each minute. In HVAC, CFM determines how well a system can circulate and replace air in a space, directly affecting comfort, efficiency, and indoor air quality.
/ˈkjuː.bɪk fiːt pər ˈmɪnɪt/
Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) measures airflow volume—how many cubic feet of air pass a point each minute. In HVAC, CFM determines how well a system can circulate and replace air in a space, directly affecting comfort, efficiency, and indoor air quality.
What does CFM mean in HVAC?
CFM measures airflow volume per minute, indicating how much air a system delivers to a space.
Source: The Cooling Company
Proper CFM improves comfort, efficiency, and ventilation.
When sizing an HVAC system, technicians match equipment CFM to room size and duct capacity so every space receives adequate airflow.
Replace or clean filters regularly—dirty filters reduce CFM and strain the system.
“Replace or clean filters regularly—dirty filters reduce CFM and strain the system.”
Zoned HVAC systems can adjust CFM by area for better comfort and energy savings.
Is higher CFM always better?
Not always. Too much airflow can be noisy and uncomfortable, while too little reduces comfort and efficiency.
What lowers CFM in a system?
Dirty filters, clogged coils, leaky ducts, or undersized ductwork can all reduce airflow.
How is CFM measured?
Technicians use tools like anemometers or flow hoods to measure airflow at vents.
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