02 Oct Why You Shouldn’t Cover Your Air Vents
True or false: Covering your air vents is a great way to redirect air to other rooms in your home. False! This is the common idea people have when trying to save energy with their HVAC system, but there are a number of reasons you actually shouldn’t cover your air vents.
Why You Shouldn’t Cover Your Air Vents
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.
You could damage the heat exchanger.
If there’s a buildup of pressure from air being pushed to covered vents, the low airflow could create problems with your heat exchanger, causing it to crack and lead to carbon monoxide emissions.
Your could develop mold and mildew.
If you live in a humid area, a blocked air vent could allow mold or mildew to develop in and around your vent and air ducts.
You could waste energy.
You probably thought covering your air vents would save you energy, but it does the opposite. Since this could harm your HVAC system, cracks and other damage could allow air to escape your ducts and cost you more in energy bills.
Pro Tip: Air ducts aren’t always covered on purpose. Check if drapes, rugs, or furniture are blocking any air ducts in your home, and move them to allow air to flow freely.
For more pro tips and advice, give us a call (412) 265-2662.
At Wahl Family Heating, Cooling, or Plumbing, we love giving our customers tips and tricks to keeping their homes comfortable. If your HVAC system could use a little attention, give us a call at (412) 265-2662.