Table of Contents
How do you install a return air duct?
Step 1: Determine Where the Ducts Will Go. Locate where you want your return air ducts. Step 2: Begin Adding Panning. Go into the basement and locate the holes. Step 3: Enclose New Ductwork. Step 4: Add New Air Return Duct to Furnace. Step 5: Install New Air Filter. Step 6: Install Return Air Register Covers.
Can I install air ducts myself?
To answer the question of whether or not you can replace or install your own ductwork, I’d say it is possible but that I highly recommend enlisting the help of a heating, cooling, and ductwork expert. Ductwork runs all throughout your house, which makes doing DIY repairs yourself a heavy contracting lift.
Where should my return air duct be?
They must be correctly placed and unobstructed —Return ducts are usually placed in hallways, under stairwells, or in larger open areas of your home. This placement ensures that they will be able to pull in enough air to take back to the HVAC equipment.
How big does a return air duct need to 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.
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.
How much does it cost to add a return 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.
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.
Should return air vents be high or low?
For optimal efficiency, it’s ideal to have return registers installed. To ensure efficiency during the cooling season, your home should have high registers. High return registers draw hot air that rises to the ceiling back into the system to repeat the cooling cycle.
Can you put central air in a house with no ductwork?
While any form of installing central air in a house without ducts will require some cutting and modifications, using a high-velocity or mini-split system can provide a much less intrusive, more economical solution in many cases.
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.
How important is the return air vent?
Your AC’s return air vent is a critical component of an HVAC system and serves several purposes. Not only do return air vents maintain your home’s air pressure and filter out debris, they can also serve to save you on energy costs and expenses, which is important here in hot and humid Gainesville, Fla.
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.
Can air return too big?
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.
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 happens if you block a return air 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 block a cold air return?
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.
Can I add a 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.
Why is my room so hot compared to the rest of the house?
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.
