It’s not uncommon to have dirty air vents.
Even if you’re diligent about vacuuming, your vents are probably still becoming covered in dust.
Hair and skin cells, particles from the carpet or couch, cooking oil, and everything else that escapes indoors result in unhealthy air.
There is no way for these particles to be removed on their own over time.
What is Return Air?
If your furnace is running but not providing enough heat, it could be due to a lack of return air.
Return air is then cooled and dehumidified air is drawn back into the furnace to be reheated.
If there is not enough return air, the furnace will not be able to operate properly.
There are several signs that you may have a lack of return air:
- The furnace runs continuously but does not seem to provide enough heat
- There are cold spots in your home
- Your utility bills are higher than usual
- Your home feels stuffy or humid
If you suspect that you have a lack of return air, it is important to contact a qualified HVAC technician to inspect your system.
They will be able to determine if there is indeed a problem with your return air ensure duct cleaning and make any necessary repairs.
What are the Symptoms of Not Enough Return Air?
If your home or office has not had enough return air, you may experience a variety of symptoms.
These are the common symptoms of not enough return air you need to look out for.
Number one is, of course, stuffiness.
This can cause headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
You may also notice that your skin feels dry and itchy, and your eyes may be irritated.
If the problem is severe, you may feel as if you’re suffocating.
Why Return Air is Beneficial
One of the benefits of return air in your house is that it helps to keep the air in your home circulating.
This is important for two reasons.
- First, circulated air helps to keep the temperature in your home more consistent.
- Second, circulated air helps to remove airborne pollutants and improve indoor air quality.
- Another benefit of return air is that it can help to reduce energy costs.
When the air in your home is circulating, it doesn’t have to be heated or cooled as much, which can save you money on your energy bills.
Additionally, circulating air can help to distribute heat evenly throughout your home, which can also reduce energy costs.
Finally, return air can help to extend the life of your HVAC system.
When the air in your home is circulating, it puts less strain on your HVAC system because it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.
This can extend the life of your HVAC system.
How to Clean Your Return Air
If your furnace is not drawing enough air from your home, it could be because the return air ductwork is dirty or blocked.
Clean Your Return Air:
- Vent Cleaning! Start by vacuuming any visible dust and debris from the return air grille.
- Next, use a damp cloth to wipe down the inside of the return air ductwork.
- Finally, use a brush or compressed air to clean out the blower motor and fan assembly.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your furnace has adequate airflow and is running efficiently.
Signs that You Need Professional Help with Your Vents
If your vents are not providing enough return air, there are a few signs that you can look for.
The first is hot and cold spots in your home.
If certain areas are always hot or cold, it could be because the air isn’t circulating properly.
Another sign is if your utility bills have been increasing.
This could be because your HVAC system is working harder to try to compensate for the lack of return air.
Lastly, if you hear strange noises coming from your vents, it could be a sign that something is blocking the airflow.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call Rockway Duct Clean, the best air duct cleaning company in Queens.
Conclusion
If you think you might not have enough return air in your home, it’s important to be aware of the potential symptoms.
You might even have to deal with air pollution.
These can include everything from stuffy air and increased dust levels to higher utility bills.
If you notice any of these things, it’s a good idea to call in a professional to look and see if you need to add more return vents.
A little bit of preventive maintenance can go a long way in keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient.
If you have experienced the symptoms of not enough return air in your home, it’s time to call Rockway Duct Clean!
