How do you cover air return vents?

How do you cover air return vents?

Much like the louvered doors, louvered shutters can be used to hide a return air vent without obstructing airflow. These can be hung over the return vent like a picture would be or secured to the wall with hinges allowing you to open and close the shutters when it’s time to replace your air filters.

Can a return vent be covered?

Effects of Covering Return Vents The most obvious effect of covering return vents is that the air can’t get back to the HVAC system. Covering even one return vent can throw off the system’s operation. The system needs to suck the air back into the furnace while it’s running, or it throws off the balance and pressure.

What is a cold air return vent?

What is a cold air return vent? Simply put, a cold air vent returns cold air back into the furnace. No furnace can adequately operate without sufficient return air supply. If we imagine a furnace is like lungs.

Can you block a cold air return vent?

Consequences. Restricting the airflow in the air handler or blower contributes to premature system problems, which can be serious. 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.

How much clearance does a cold air return need?

All your air vents need at least six inches of clearance from all furniture, drapes or other household items to ensure proper system breathing.

How big should a return air vent be?

A typical supply vent is 4 by 10 to 12 inches and a typical return vent is 16 by 20 inches or larger. Houses often have two or more return collecting points, each with a filter, which join before re-entering the heating unit.

What happens if I cover my cold air return?

Should you cover cold air returns in winter?

Because hot air rises and cold air falls, you need to adjust your return vents with the seasons. In the summer, your lower vents should be closed and your upper vents should be open. In the winter, your upper vents should be closed and your lower vents should be open.