Should HVAC returns have filters?

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.

Do return air vents have filters?





Installed at the return vent in your home, they pre-filter dust and other particles. This keeps your ductwork clean and extends the life of the main filter at your HVAC unit. If you have a standard-sized return vent in your home, it will be able to accommodate a regular, rectangular-shaped air filter.

Do I need both a furnace filter and a return air grill filter?

Do I Need Both a Furnace Filter and a Return Air Grill Filter? Yes, you are going to need a furnace filter and a return duct filter. The main purpose of the furnace filter is to protect the blower from dust, debris, pet dander, and so on.

Why is my return air vent so dirty?

Here are some of the most common culprits: Your air ducts are leaking. Cracked or damaged air ducts can allow contaminants to enter your system and cause your filter to clog up. They can also significantly increase your energy bills.

Should you put filters on supply vents?

Do not put filters in your supply vents. Your AC system should have a proper fitting filter on the return side. By placing a good fitting, high quality filter on the return vent, you will remove particles from the air before they can enter the AC system.

Where is the return air filter?





It may be difficult to locate on some HVAC systems, but you can usually find the air filter in the return air duct. Or in layman’s terms, that big metal grate on your wall, floor, ceiling or utility closet door. Return air ducts can be just about anywhere.

How do I clean my return air grille filter?

You Can Clean Your Air Conditioning Filter in 7 Easy Steps:

  1. Undo the hinged Return Air Grill frame fixing. …
  2. Swing the frame open and let it hang vertically.
  3. Slide out the filter.
  4. Vacuum the lint off the filter.
  5. Wash the filter in warm water.
  6. Let the filter completely dry out in the sun.

How do you clean an AC return vent?

Clean Out the Vents: Turn off your heat or A/C and cover furniture if your vents are in the ceiling. Vacuum your vents with a dust attachment, and then use a microfiber duster to loosen anything missed by the vacuum. Avoid using water and cleaning products, as they smear the dust around and turn it into a paste.

Is duct cleaning a gimmick?

Duct cleaning has never been shown to actually prevent health problems. Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts. This is because much of the dirt in air ducts adheres to duct surfaces and does not necessarily enter the living space.

What does a return vent look like?



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.

Why is my house so dusty?

Both low humidity and high humidity play a role in why your house is so dusty. When the air is dry, your air can be extra dusty. But when it’s too high, it can feed mites and promote mold growth. If your air is dry, run a humidifier so that you can reach a comfortable level.

Do all air vents have filters?

All HVAC systems include a furnace filter, but many homeowners are also purchasing air filters for their vents. These optional filters are bought in sheets which may be then cut to fit both register and air return vents throughout the house.

Should every room have a return vent?



Does Every Room Need Air Return Grilles? 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. The most important place to have these would be the bedroom.

What does a return air vent do?

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.

What happens if you block the return air?

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.

How many return air vents should a house have?

Your Home Might Not Have Enough Return 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.

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.

Is it OK to block 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.

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.