Damper
A damper is a device used in heating and cooling systems to control airflow in ducts and ventilation systems. Think of it like a valve that can be opened or closed to direct air where it needs to go in a building. HVAC technicians work with dampers to make sure rooms get the right amount of heating or cooling. These devices can be simple manual plates that are adjusted by hand, or sophisticated electronic systems that automatically control building temperature. When someone mentions dampers in their resume, they're typically referring to experience with installing, maintaining, or repairing these airflow control devices in heating and ventilation systems.
Examples in Resumes
Installed and calibrated Damper systems in commercial buildings
Performed maintenance on automated Dampers across multiple HVAC zones
Troubleshot and repaired malfunctioning Damper mechanisms in ventilation systems
Typical job title: "HVAC Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find HVAC Technicians
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you troubleshoot a building with uneven heating/cooling issues related to damper systems?
Expected Answer: A senior technician should explain the process of checking damper positions, verifying control signals, testing actuators, and using air measurement tools to diagnose airflow problems. They should mention the importance of checking both mechanical and electronic components.
Q: What factors do you consider when designing a damper system for a large commercial building?
Expected Answer: They should discuss building layout, zone requirements, air balance needs, energy efficiency goals, and integration with building automation systems. Should also mention compliance with building codes and safety regulations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Explain the different types of dampers and their uses.
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe volume dampers, fire dampers, smoke dampers, and motorized dampers, along with typical applications for each type and basic maintenance requirements.
Q: How do you balance a system using dampers?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of measuring airflow, adjusting damper positions, and ensuring proper distribution of air throughout the system while maintaining proper system pressure.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the basic function of a damper in an HVAC system?
Expected Answer: Should explain that dampers control airflow in ductwork, like a valve controls water flow in pipes, and describe basic operation of manual and automated dampers.
Q: What safety considerations are important when working with dampers?
Expected Answer: Should mention checking for proper operation of fire dampers, ensuring dampers don't completely restrict airflow, and basic electrical safety when working with motorized dampers.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic damper installation and adjustment
- Simple maintenance procedures
- Reading system diagrams
- Basic troubleshooting
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex damper system maintenance
- Air balance testing
- Control system programming
- Advanced troubleshooting
Senior (5+ years)
- System design and optimization
- Project management
- Team leadership
- Building automation integration
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic airflow principles
- Lack of safety awareness regarding fire dampers
- Unable to read basic system diagrams
- No experience with testing and balancing equipment
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