What will blocking a cold air return do?

In the heating cycle, blocked cold air returns can cause the heat exchanger inside the blower compartment to store too much heat and eventually crack. If the cracks are too large, the furnace can emit carbon monoxide into your home's air.

What happens if you block a return vent?

Blocking air return vents causes your system to work harder, as there is less air flow to move the air back to the furnace. This continued strain on the HVAC system can lead to a decrease in performance and more HVAC repairs down the road.

Is it OK to partially block a cold air return?

Most residential cooling and heating systems operate as closed-loop systems. In a closed-loop system, air returns play an essential role, and it is important not to block them. Blocking a cool air return means a risk of freezing the air conditioner coils, causing a restriction of air flow.

Why do people block cold air returns?

Reasons People Close Vents

Closing the vents throws off the balance and pressure, causing damage and forcing the unit to work harder. It can make the system less energy efficient, so leaving all vents open and unblocked is best.

Should cold air returns be sealed?

Return air ducts must be sealed and unobstructed — Sealing return air ducts is just as important as sealing supply ducts. Sealing all duct section connections with mastic, a specialized rubbery sealant, or with metal tape prevents air leaks.

Learn about Cold Air Returns

Is it OK to block an air vent?

Preventative maintenance will keep your HVAC system in top operating condition for maximum efficiency. Additionally, you shouldn't block any air vents inside your homes. Covering HVAC vents will not conserve energy or decrease energy costs. In fact, it can result in the opposite.

What happens if there is not enough return air?

If there is not enough return air available, your HVAC system will not heat or cool properly. They must be properly sized — Return air ducts must be large enough to carry a sufficient amount of expended air back to your furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump.

Is it OK to cover an air return?

Avoid covering your cold air return vents with curtains, drapes or rugs. Always check your air filters and replace them when needed. Clogged air filters can also cause cold air return blockages.

Are cold air returns necessary?

Air return vents are necessary for the 'inhale' process. They are located on the walls or floors; they are installed low on the wall because cold air has a higher density and it accumulates near the floor.

Will a cold air return make a room warmer?

When warm air is delivered to a room, the existing cold air in that room is pushed into the cold air returns. Once inside your cold air returns, that air travels through your ductwork back to your furnace where it is filtered, heated and sent back to warm your home.

Can you put a bed in front of a cold air return?

The way the door and window are in the room, his bed can only go one way. How much room does a cold air return need in front of it to work correctly? Or do they have to be completly clear. The clearer the better, but as long as it's not completely blocked, it'll be fine.

Should every room have a cold air return?

While it is a myth that air return grilles are required in each and every room in the house, it is definitely necessary to have more than one of these grilles installed at strategic places in the house. The most important place to have these would be the bedroom.

How do I know if my return air is working?

Try this simple test when your HVAC system is running: get a piece of tissue paper and dangle it about six inches from one of the return vents. You should be able to see it being gently pulled towards the vent. Next, place it up against return vent and see if the air suction holds it in place.

How many cold air returns does a house need?

Your Home Might Not Have Enough Return Vents

Having several return vents (ideally one in every room, but even two or three is better than just one) creates consistent air pressure. If you have one return vent, your home is fine. Keep the doors to each room open so air can properly circulate.

How can I improve my cold air return?

Can you have too much cold air return?

Can an air return be too big? No, an air return cannot be too big, except in extreme cases where a closed room is temporarily under negative air pressure. Return vents maintain air pressure, filter out debris, and are critical to the efficient operation of any HVAC system.

How do I stop cold air coming through my vents?

What is the purpose of return air vents?

Return vents: What is a return vent? These vents suck the air from each room and send it back to the air conditioning or heating system. Return vents tend to be bigger than supply vents, and you won't feel any air coming from them. When an HVAC system delivers air to a room, it increases that room's air pressure.

What happens if my return is too small?

If the return duct is too small, there are an inadequate number of return grilles or they are undersized, it can't return enough air to recirculate back into the system. The average duct system has 25% less return air than required according to National Comfort Institute.

How do you increase airflow in ducts?

Increasing airflow in ductwork can be done by cleaning the air filters and ductwork. By adding inline duct booster fans and/or air dampers significantly can improve airflow in weak areas.

How much return air do I need?

Having a number of return vents (preferably one in every room, but also 2 or three is far better than just one) creates regular air pressure. If you have one return vent, your house is great. Maintain the doors to every room open so air can properly flow.

Why is my room so hot compared to the rest of the house?

First, check for these common problems: Dirty air filter—A dirty filter restricts airflow, not letting your home get enough cool air. Closed vents—Closed vents in rooms can cause them to be hotter than other rooms. Open windows—Your conditioned air can flow out of open windows, leaving uneven temperatures in your home.

Can I put furniture in front of a return vent?

Home Inspection Insider explains that an air return vent needs 6-12 inches of space in front of it, and recommends that you do not put large, bulky furniture like couches and bookshelves in front of an air return vent.

Can I block the air bricks in my house?

Air bricks should never be blocked or closed and it is recommended that all air bricks are inspected and cleaned on an annual basis. reallymoving comment: Make sure that you employ the advice of a Chartered Surveyor before making any major alterations to your property.

How do I know if my cold air return is blocked?

You can generally identify a blocked air duct by a distinct drop in heating and cooling efficiency, increased energy costs and occasionally a musty, dusty smell throughout the home. Blockage usually comes over time, by a buildup of dust and debris that just accumulates until it begins choking the system.