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 you put furniture in front of a return air 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. Some furniture, such as end tables or shelving that is open on all sides and bottom would not obstruct the airflow into the return air vent.
Can I put my furniture in front of my air conditioner?
We would not recommend placing closed-off furniture in front of your system. Avoid doing this, if possible. Consult with your maintenance technician before leaving any major furniture pieces in front. Yes, consult a HVAC technician before covering your grille.
Can I hide my return air vent without blocking airflow?
There are ways to hide your return air vent without obstructing airflow. It’s important not to block your return air vent because your HVAC system needs constant return air to work properly. A blocked air return vent will cause your system to lose efficiency and can cause premature failure of your HVAC system.
How does a return air vent work?
This fan draws indoor air from the house through the return air vent. This air then flows over the evaporator coil where it is either heated or cooled prior to flowing into the supply ducts where it is distributed back into the rooms of your house. How Much Space Does a Return Vent Need?
How far should furniture be from return air vent?
10 inches awayKeep couches, chairs and other large pieces of furniture at least 10 inches away from your cold air return vents. Avoid covering your cold air return vents with curtains, drapes or rugs. Always check your air filters and replace them when needed.
Can you cover an air return vent with furniture?
While you should have a filter on your air return vent to prevent too much dust or moisture from entering your air system and recirculating back to you, you should never actually cover a return air vent. Keep furniture and even curtains at least 10” away from the vent opening in order to allow for proper air flow.
Can you put a table in front of an air return?
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. Some furniture, such as end tables or shelving open on all sides and bottom, would not obstruct the airflow into the return air vent.
Can you put a couch over an intake vent?
The short answer to this question is "No." Vents are there to provide for a necessary free flow of air. Block that flow, and your home will run sub-optimally, and you could even cause damage to your HVAC system.
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 have furniture over a vent?
You should never place your furniture over or in front of an air vent. This can lead to lasting damage to your HVAC system and your furniture.
Can you block a cold air return vent?
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.
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 you close a return vent?
The location of return vents is usually on interior walls in most of your rooms except the kitchen and bathrooms. Your return vents are usually larger than your supply vents. They don't have louvers like registers do, which means you can't open and close them.
Can I partially cover 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 the purpose of a return air vent?
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.
Can you put a piece of furniture over floor vents?
It is best practice not to cover vents with furniture. If you place furniture atop a vent, it may dry out the wood and damage your expensive sofa or armoire. You may also cause your furnace or air conditioner to work harder, resulting in a higher utility bill or premature wear to your system.
Can I partially cover 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.
Can you cover an air vent?
You could mess with the air flow. Just because you cover the vent, it doesn't mean your HVAC system knows that. It will keep pushing air to those vents, and if they're closed, you could cause a buildup of air pressure and insufficient airflow which could damage your system.
How do you make a decorative air return vent cover?
Step 1: Measure the opening of your air vent. ... Step 2: Cut your frame boards. ... Step 3: Dry fit your vent cover frame. ... Step 4: Drill pocket holes and construct frame. ... Step 5b: Add wood filler to any gaps. ... Step 6: Sand vent cover frame until smooth. ... Step 7: Paint your frame. ... Step 8: Cut screen to size.More items...
Can you cover a cold air return?
Long story short: It's never a good idea to cover up cold air returns. Don't succumb to the temptation, and always check that air is circulating freely when you move furniture. If your HVAC system isn't performing the way you would like, it might have other efficiency issues.