A few more vents can make your HVAC system so much more efficient
Forced air HVAC systems push air through ducts to supply vents, which blow air into a home's various rooms. At the same time, air travels back to the HVAC system through return vents. You need an adequate number of return air vents for your system to work properly, and some older systems only have a single return vent. You can learn how to install a return air vent in a wall, but keep in mind that it can be a complex project and may be best left to the pros.
Installing a return air vent can take one of two forms. In some cases, your home may already have return air vents in place and you may simply need to replace them due to damage or because they don't match your style.
In the second scenario, your home has an older forced air system and it has a single return air vent, usually located on the first floor. A single return vent isn't the most efficient option and may cause your system to work harder than it needs to. If that's the case, you'll need to install a new return vent and ductwork to connect the new vent to the rest of the return system.
If you're installing new ductwork, you'll need to connect the return vent to your existing system. The first step is to find the return ducts. If you're only replacing an existing air vent, you can skip to step 5.
Installing ductwork is a much bigger job than swapping out a return vent cover, so be sure you know what you're getting into before you begin. You'll also need to identify the correct ducts before you start. Some ducts pull air from the HVAC system while others return air to the system. You want to connect to the ducts that return air to your system.
Since ductwork installation usually needs to follow building codes, it's always a good idea to check in with a local duct installer before beginning work. A ductwork technician can help you understand the local requirements and provide professional guidance. Depending on your location, you may also need to get a permit from your municipality before you begin duct installation.
Decide where in the room you will place the return air vent. Typically, you'll want to place the vent on an interior wall, in line with the existing air return ducts. Whether you put the vent on the wall itself or the floor is up to you. If on the wall, the vent can be near the ceiling or lower down.
Once you've chosen the right location, cut out a hole in the drywall for the vent using the reciprocating saw. Use a pencil to mark the edges of the vent's opening on the wall, and measure to ensure the traced area is the right size before you start cutting.
Keep in mind that you want the vent opening to be the size of the vent, not the size of the cover. The lip of the return vent cover should rest against the wall. If you cut the hole too large, it won't stay in place.
Now for the tricky part: Installing the ductwork. Remove any insulation or other obstacles from inside the wall. Remember to consult a local duct installer and ensure that you follow code when installing the new ductwork.
If the ductwork needs to bend around a corner, use corner pieces to make the transition flow smoothly.
After installing the new ductwork, connect it to the existing return duct. Cut a hole in the existing return duct to fit in the attachment, known as a duct takeoff. The takeoff is a connecting piece that joins the existing and new ductwork.
Use a circle saw attachment on a power drill to cut the hole for the takeoff. Then, slip the end of the takeoff into the hole. The end should have little tabs around the perimeter. To secure the takeoff into place, push the tabs up, so they are flat against the interior wall of the existing ductwork. Paint a layer of duct sealant around the connection area to securely attach the takeoff to the existing duct.
Go back to the room where you cut the hole for the return vent and place the vent cover over the opening, lining it up so that it fully covers the holes. Use wood screws and a screwdriver to secure the vent cover to the wall.
There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether to DIY return vent installation or hire a pro. The first is the complexity of the project. If all you're doing is swapping out an old return vent cover for a new one, then it's a simple enough DIY.
But if your home's heating and cooling system is ancient and you don't have an adequate number of return vents in your house, hiring a pro is the better way to go. The ductwork in your home affects more the temperature. It also affects your home's energy usage, humidity levels, and whether your home is up-to-code or not.
Most states require ductwork installers to be licensed, because a bad duct installation job can be a headache for a homeowner. Duct installers need training and experience to do the job well. Going with a pro when ductwork is involved will give you peace of mind that your HVAC system can function at its best and that your home is up-to-code.
Great company! Price was competitive, technician showed up on time and completed the job (exterior electric Radon fan replacement) quickly. Would hire them again.
MaGen Property Inspections and Radon MitigationAs usual with ECO, tech Jordan was outstanding, very professional, very knowledgeable, and very thorough with repairs made to tankless water heaters. Very highly recommend ECO!!!
Eco Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC TechniciansRaven and crew does absolutely fantastic job. They are very professional if any concerns were to occur with any of her work she always took responsibility and finished out with a great job. I have worked with her business for a year and have always been satisfied. Very trusted business and...
Creations of Transformation LLCI would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLCAce Fireplace Services' chimney sweep service is truly exceptional. They used advanced technology to ensure a thorough cleaning process, and my chimney has never looked better. I highly recommend their services.
Ace Fireplace ServicesThe technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimneyExcellent experience with hiring Tether House to Mount our 77’ Samsung TV in our bedroom. Fast, friendly, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend.
Tether HouseOn time, clean and finished fast. Windows seem sturdy and the finish is good. Caulking was done with no smudges. Would recommend.
Window Depot USA of Central OhioGreat job...edging and pre clean up went well with a great job with seal coat. Friendly, efficient and professional.
All Star Paving and SealingGood workers and they do a good job.
Mira ConstructionFrom average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Curious about how much it will cost to add a return air vent? Our guide will help you discover the cost factors and ways to save on this project.
Several factors impact dryer vent installation cost. Use this guide to learn what affects the cost, and how much you should budget for this project.
This guide lays out the cost to install a roof vent on your home depending on the type of ventilation that's best for your roof based on several factors.
Return vents help your HVAC system work to ensure your home maintains its desired temperature and air quality. How many return vents you need depends on your home.
Our guide looks at whether return air vents can be on the floor, how to spot one, and what causes air vents to stop working.
Your home’s vent placement matters, so where should return air vents be located? We discuss what factors impact your return vent’s performance.
