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The simplest way to know if your return air vent is working properly is to test it. Take a piece of tissue or paper (the thinner, the better) and hold it up alongside the air return. If the return air vent is working as expected, it should suck the paper toward the vent. 

You should remove and clean your HRV filters about once a month, as debris will build up quickly, especially on the fresh air side of the ductwork. Even with routine cleaning, you should plan to replace the filters at least once a year or more often if you find that they’re getting dirty quickly during operation.

How often you change the filters in your return air vents typically depends on factors such as your indoor air quality, the type of filter used, and the specific needs of your HVAC system. Generally, checking your filters every 1-3 months is recommended. However, if you have pets or allergies or live in an area with high dust levels, more frequent replacements may be necessary. Regular filter changes ensure that your HVAC system operates efficiently, maintains good indoor air quality, and extends its lifespan.

It is generally not a good idea to completely cover or close air vents. While you might have heard that closing vents in unused rooms saves energy, it does not improve HVAC performance or lower your energy bills. In fact, blocking, covering, or fully closing vents can create a buildup of pressure inside your ducts, which can lead to leaks, holes, or other problems. To maintain proper airflow, you should also avoid covering vents with furniture. If you want to reduce airflow to unoccupied parts of your home, it is better to partially shut the vents (between 50% and 75%) rather than closing them completely.