Make-Up Air System Installation & Replacement

A make-up air system ensures your home has the right balance of fresh air when powerful exhaust systems—like kitchen hoods, bath fans, or whole house fans—remove indoor air. Sterling Mechanical installs and services make-up air systems to maintain healthy airflow, indoor comfort, and proper HVAC performance.

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Why Install a Make-Up Air System?

When exhaust fans push air out of your home, they create negative pressure. Without a make-up air system to replace that air, you could experience:

  • Drafts from doors, windows, or fireplaces

  • Poor indoor air quality

  • Backdrafting from gas appliances (dangerous carbon monoxide risk)

  • Reduced HVAC efficiency

  • Imbalance in heating and cooling performance

A make-up air system delivers tempered, filtered outdoor air back into your home, keeping your environment safe and comfortable.

Where Make-Up Air Systems Are Used

  • Kitchens with High-Capacity Range Hoods – Prevents smoke and odor backflow.

  • Homes with Multiple Exhaust Systems – Maintains balanced airflow.

  • Commercial Kitchens – Meets code requirements for ventilation.

  • Tight, Energy-Efficient Homes – Ensures fresh air without sacrificing efficiency.

Signs You May Need a Make-Up Air System

  • Doors slamming or whistling when exhaust fans run

  • Strong drafts when ventilation systems are on

  • Lingering odors even with a kitchen hood running

  • Fireplace smoke entering the home

  • Gas appliance pilot lights going out unexpectedly

Our Installation Process

  1. Airflow Assessment – We measure ventilation rates and identify any negative pressure issues.

  2. System Recommendation – We match your exhaust capacity with the right make-up air unit.

  3. Professional Installation – Integrated into your home’s ventilation or HVAC system for balanced airflow.

  4. Final Testing – We ensure safe, efficient operation and compliance with local codes.

Why Choose Sterling Mechanical

  • Local San Diego Experts – Experienced in balancing ventilation for residential and light commercial spaces.

  • Safety First – Protects against backdrafting and poor indoor air quality.

  • Owner-Reviewed Work – Every job inspected for quality before completion.

  • Transparent Pricing – Clear, upfront quotes—no hidden surprises.

Balance Your Airflow & Improve Indoor Comfort
Call Sterling Mechanical today for a make-up air system consultation and installation estimate.