Static field route #426

What do I do when flex kink reduces airflow?

Airflow/TAB Impacts From InstallationV136 field-polished — distinct TAB/airflow answer

Straighten and support the flex before TAB turns it into an airflow complaint. A kink or crushed inner liner shrinks the air path, so the diffuser may look connected but still starves for air.

Open in Field Rescue Open category

Field checklist

Follow the flex from collar to boot/diffuser and find the kink or flattened spot.
Check whether the inner liner is collapsed, twisted, stretched too tight, or sagging.
Shorten the run or reroute it if the flex is acting like a long sloppy hose.
Add approved support/cradle without cinching the liner.
Ask for hard duct or a route change if the flex cannot hold a smooth bend.

Ask foreman

This flex is kinked at [location] and may be choking the diffuser. Do you want me to re-support/shorten it, or change the route/hard duct it?

Do not

Do not hide kinked, crushed, sagging, or extra-long flex above ceiling because it “looks connected.”

Why it matters

Airflow needs open cross-section. A collapsed flex liner increases resistance and can leave the diffuser short on CFM even when the duct is physically connected.

Search words: airflow tab flex kink crushed liner restriction no air diffuser low cfm starving diffuser