If you’re not too concerned about aesthetics, you can use some flexible duct (or dryer duct) and a couple boots. Use some foil HVAC tape to connect one boot to the duct on the ceiling, and then put the other boot on the ground, and use foil tape to connect the boots to the flex duct.
How do you move a return vent in the ceiling?
Youtube quote:To move the return vent down i simply cut out a space identical to the size of the return vent already right below where the existing return vent is to do this i used a box cutter.
Can you put a cold air return in the ceiling?
Most homes across the U.S. have forced air systems and in newer homes there will be cold air return vents placed at both the ceiling and the floor of many rooms. 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.
Should cold air returns be high or low?
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.
How do you adjust return air vents?
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. Since cold air is heavy it will automatically flow down to the lower register.
Can you block a cold air return vent?
Blocking your cold air returns, whether intentionally or by accident, can be disastrous in more ways than one. Here’s what could happen if one or more of your returns are blocked: It can cause the evaporator coil to freeze over. The evaporator coil’s job is to absorb latent heat from air flowing over the coil.
Can you move a cold air return vent?
If these are truly cold air returns, then the return duct is under the floor right at that point and there is an opening into the duct at the bottom of that knee wall. So the only way that you can move the cold air return openings is if the duct runs under another wall in the same room/area.
How do you block cold air from ceiling vents?
The least expensive method to seal the vent opening is to remove the vent cover from the ceiling, cut a piece of cardboard to fit inside the vent cover, tape the cardboard in place with polyurethane tape, and reinstall the vent cover.
How can I hide my cold air return?
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 return vent filters.
Why is my cold air return in the ceiling?
If you are in the far north, or in the Southern US, the answer is simple. In an air conditioning climate the return duct goes near the ceiling to draw off the hot air and cool it down. In a heating climate, the return duct goes near the floor to draw off the cold air and heat it up.
Where do you put a cold air return in a basement?
Youtube quote:Put in a cold air return for me that goes in between there's a stud here and a stud there.
Can you have too many return air vents?
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.
Should ceiling vents be closed in winter?
Air vents should be open to prevent damage
Along with providing heat to the home, air vents are designed to release the air pressure from inside the ductwork. When vents are closed, that pressure builds up, potentially causing damage to the HVAC system.
Should basement vents be open?
There’s no harm in closing a few basement vents. However, you should make a point of reopening those vents after a day or two of leaving them closed. You should also try and keep the vents on all the other floors of your home open to promote consistent and effective airflow.
Should I open my basement vents in winter?
If you really want to save some cash on your bills, keep your vents open and allow the air to flow freely throughout your home, but consider lowering the temperature a few degrees. You probably won’t notice a temperature difference, but your system will be happier without the closed vents and you will be saving money.
Does closing vents downstairs help cool upstairs?
Partially close the registers on the first floor
Your HVAC system cycle times will also become longer (presuming your thermostat is on the first floor), which also helps push cool air to the second floor. For maximum efficacy, make sure that your air-return vents are open and nothing blocks your vents upstairs.
How do you force cold air upstairs?
Simple Fixes to Help Cool Your Upstairs
- Properly open vents, don’t block return air supply. Let the air flow! …
- Install lightly colored curtains or drapes. …
- Keep heat-generating appliances off. …
- Run a fan (when you’re in the room) …
- Keep your HVAC fan set to ‘on’ …
- Inspect your ductwork. …
- Check your insulation.
How do you fix a cold downstairs hot upstairs?
If you are unable to maintain an even temperature in your house, consider the following interventions:
- Change Your Air Filter. …
- Repair and Insulate Your Ductwork. …
- Shell Out for a New Air Conditioner or Furnace. …
- Look Into Zone Control HVAC. …
- Investigate Your Attic’s Thermal Integrity. …
- Reduce Sources of Heat Upstairs. …
- Use Fans.
Should basement vents be open in summer?
You can safely close your basement air vents in the summer, yes. You’ll want to do so intermittently, though, instead of leaving them closed for several weeks at a time. If you consistently want to keep your vents closed, be sure to rotate which vents you shut at least every two days.
How do I get cold air out of my basement upstairs?
Youtube quote:Air down here and send it upstairs. Now most homes basements have registers and the ceiling supply air into the basement.
How do you get cold air from basement upstairs?
How to Use Cool Basement Air to Cool the Upstairs
- Shut all of your home’s windows and doors to the outside except for one window on your home’s top floor. …
- Position a box fan in the opened window. …
- Open a basement window in the farthest opposite, or north, corner of your home to cool the entire house.
