Table of Contents
Where do you put return air vents?
Place your cold air return vents on the inside walls of buildings at the lowest point. The return vent pulls cold air from the bottom of the room and returns it to the furnace to be reheated and returned as warm air.
How much does it cost to install a return air vent?
Cost of Return Air Plenums Return Air Plenums Costs Zip Code Basic Best Return Air Plenums – Material Prices $50.00 – $60.00 $95.00 – $105.00 Return Air Plenums – Installation Cost $100.25 – $100.35 $150.00 – $200.00 Return Air Plenums – Total $150.25 – $160.35 $245.00 – $305.00.
Can I add a return vent to existing ductwork?
Yes, it’s quite possible to add a vent into the existing ductwork. But, you’ll need to check the compatibility of the AC and heater. After this, locate spots and mark them. Then, cut the piece and add the vent cover after ensuring the right fit.
Does every room need 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. Likewise, you can also install these in rooms that have a high footfall or usage in the house.
Can flexible duct be used for return air?
Flex duct can be used for return air, but there are some conditions for its use in this application. Flex duct may have to be insulated for use as a return duct, but that is up to the discretion and requirements of the individual installing the duct system.
Do you put a filter in a return vent?
Should you use a filter in your return vent? For most homes, return vents filters are suggested. They typically won’t cause any damage to your HVAC system and are easy to install – there’s no need for an HVAC technician.
What is the purpose of cold air return vents?
The return registers draw stale air into the ductwork, where it’s pulled through the filter to capture dust and debris and then delivered back to the HVAC equipment for reconditioning. However, the most important function of the cold air return registers is ensuring ample airflow through the HVAC system.
How big should my return air duct 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 there is not enough return air?
If there is not enough return air available, your HVAC system will not heat or cool properly. If not enough air is brought back, your HVAC system will not be able to keep up with temperature demands. In some cases, two returns may be necessary to provide enough return air.
How many return vents should a house have?
Generally speaking, you should only need one return air vent per room in your home. However, you may need additional air vents for larger sized rooms.
How many cold air return vents do you need?
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.
Why do I have two air returns?
Having two air return vents allows you to seasonally control which air is returning to the HVAC system. In older homes, this may not be an option. The theory is that in the Summer cooling season, you want to be circulating warmer air back through the HVAC system to be cooled.
Can you add cold air return?
Although it’s easier to modify cold air return ducts, adding new cold air returns so there’s one in every room is the best way to achieve balanced airflow in your home. This is not a task suitable for the average homeowner, and will likely require a qualified HVAC technician to complete the job.
Can I put furniture in front of a return vent?
Most people would tell you, no, you cannot put furniture in front of an air return vent. For example, you can’t place a couch or chair or any piece of furniture that has a back into it in front of a return air vent because it will block all airflow into the return air vent.
What is a return duct?
Return air ducts balance airflow in your HVAC system — The primary role of return ducts is to bring air that has been warmed or cooled back to your furnace or air conditioner. This air is returned so that it can be heated or cooled again, filtered of particulates and contaminants, and redistributed inside your home.
What happens if ductwork is undersized?
Ducts that are undersized will increase the static pressure, which will result in excessive noise as air moves through the system. It is often loud enough to be distracting, so it will not be difficult to overlook and should be addressed, as undersized ducts overwork the heating unit.
How far can you run flex duct?
Flexible duct shall be supported at manufacturer’s recommended intervals, but at no greater distance than four feet. Maximum permissible sag is 1/2 inch per foot of spacing between supports.
Why is my air return filter black?
If you’ve recently changed out your air filter and noticed it was black, you’re experiencing something called “black soot deposition. Essentially, black soot deposition is just an excess build-up of soot, which is typically the result of: A gas appliance or fireplace that isn’t burning fuel properly. Scented candles.
How do you tell if a vent is a return?
You can identify return vents by turning on the system fan and holding your hand or a piece of paper up. If the paper is pulled toward the vent or you feel a suction effect, it’s a return vent.
Can I put dryer sheets in my vents?
It will stay put even without any tape and will make your entire room smell amazing. You can do the same thing by taping a dryer sheet to any heating or air conditioning vent in the home, too. If you roll up a dirty diaper, stick another dryer sheet in there to help with any odor.
