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Yes, scorpions can enter a home through AC vents, especially if the system is not well-sealed. As excellent climbers, they can scale a home's exterior and squeeze through gaps as small as 1/16 of an inch. Scorpions are often attracted to the moisture around air conditioning ducts or seek cooler areas during hot weather, using vents as a pathway inside. They may slip through small openings where the duct meets the vent cover and travel within walls before emerging. To prevent this, inspect your vents, seal any gaps, and consider installing fine mesh screens.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are no studies that definitively show duct cleaning prevents health problems or reduces dust levels in homes. However, cleaning can have noticeable benefits. It can improve indoor air quality by removing dust, allergens, and other contaminants, which may help people with allergies or respiratory issues. It can also reduce unpleasant odors, help identify mold growth, and enhance the efficiency and lifespan of your HVAC system by ensuring proper airflow. This improved airflow can reduce strain on the system, potentially lowering energy consumption and utility bills. Cleaning is particularly beneficial if ducts are filthy after a major renovation or a pest problem.

Return air ducts should generally not be installed in rooms with high humidity, contaminants, or strong odors. This includes bathrooms, kitchens, garages, closets, attics, and furnace or boiler rooms. Placing vents in these areas can draw moisture, fumes, odors, and potentially hazardous gases like carbon monoxide into your HVAC system, which can damage ductwork, promote mold growth, and compromise your home's indoor air quality and safety. According to the International Code Council, there are some exceptions. For example, a return duct may be placed in a kitchen if it is at least 10 feet away from cooking appliances and serves only that room. Similarly, a garage can have a return duct if it is part of a dedicated forced-air system that only serves the garage. For optimal performance, prioritize installing return air vents in central locations and rooms with consistent temperature needs, such as bedrooms and living spaces. If you are unsure, consult a professional duct installer for guidance.

You do need dampers in your HVAC system, but they do help to regulate airflow and give you better control of the temperature in each room of your home. Most HVAC systems will have dampers installed, but this isn't always the case. If you don’t have designated zones in your home, you’ll likely still have valve control dampers on your supply vents for manual control.