Do return air grilles need dampers?

Air returns don’t have a damper as they need to allow free flow of air into the vent. A typical Return is a vent cover without the damper/ louver on it. A Return Air Filter Grille or Return Filter Frame contains a vent cover that attaches to a filter frame assembly.

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.

What is return air damper?

Return air dampers are used to regulate return air from air conditioned spaces to the mixing box of air handler.

Should I put a filter in my air return?

In general, it is recommended to have an air filter in every return vent (as long as you choose the one of the right size and thickness). The filters will improve the air quality in your house and will protect the HVAC equipment from dust, pollen, pet dander, and hair.

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.

Can I use flexible duct for cold air return?

Yes, you can use flex ducts for your return air. However, to maximize its usefulness, it needs to conform to technical specifications such as its insulation rating, pressure checks, dust filters, duct sizing and placement, and lastly, the installation requirements.

Are dampers bad for HVAC?

If you’re thinking, “Hey, closing off my air supply dampers might also increase static pressure,” you’d be right! A fully or partially closed damper pushes back against the air being forced through the system by the blower fan. It increases air resistance inside your ductwork.

Which vents should be open 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.

Can I put dryer sheets in my vents?

It’s often made with something toxic. In fact, research shows that air vented from dryers using scented sheets is, indeed, somewhat toxic. The contents of dryer sheets are not properly regulated and dryers vent their air to the outside of your home, after all. Second, adding a dryer sheet will reduce air flow.

Does every return vent need a filter?

If there is no air filter at your HVAC unit, then you absolutely need a return vent filter. We recommend using a MERV-5 to MERV-8 pleated air filter in your return vent.

How do you adjust a cold air return?

Adjust Return Registers for Winter In the winter you want the cold air to be drawn through the return registers leaving the hot air behind. By opening the lower registers and closing the top ones you keep hot air in and draw the cold air out.

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.

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.

Why is cold air coming out of my return vent?

So why is cold air coming out of your vents? It is most likely a leaky duct system—but you should have your home’s heating efficiency checked out by an HVAC professional.

Can I modify my cold air return ducts?

With a few materials and just a little work, you can modify cold air return ducts for significantly better balance. First, locate your system’s return and supply ducts. Return ducts are located inside your home, and there should be one in every room. However, many older homes will likely have fewer returns.

How do I regulate my cold air returns?

Just like with many home maintenance checklist items, we recommend using Daylight Savings as a time to check the regulation of your cold air returns. In winter, enable the bottom cold air to return and in the summer, enable the upper return.

How do operable cold air return vents work?

Operable cold air return vents have a lever that enables you to open or shut the vent depending on the time of year. It is a small lever that you just push up or down to control louvers, similar to the variable dashboard vents in a car. Some homes might not have operable vents, but still have an upper and lower return in a room.

Why should I seasonally adjust my cold air returns?

Having seasonally adjusted returns allows your home to maintain the proper temperature at the highest efficiency. This is a simple task to complete and can be completed in minutes only twice a year. In some cases, cold air returns are fixed and don’t have a control.