When it comes to your home’s HVAC system, do you think it’s better to leave vents open or closed in unused rooms? Does closing them make your system run more efficiently?
If these questions are the type that keep you up at night, we have the answer for you! You may have heard that you should close the vents and shut the door to reduce your energy use. Sealing the air vents in unused rooms may seem like an excellent initiative to save money on your energy bills. However, this isn’t quite the case. Here’s why:
Leaking Ductwork
In your home’s ductwork, pressure tends to build up when you close the vents. The increased pressures prevent air from moving freely through the ductwork, and that could lead to leaks. This air movement is very controlled and ensures that the right air goes to the right duct. Eventually, it makes it impossible for the air to flow correctly through the rest of the system.
Losing Efficiency
The buildup of pressure puts a lot of strain on the equipment itself. For instance, the HVAC system is now working harder to distribute the air throughout your home. Now, your unit has to run longer to provide comfort for the same amount of space with less volume of air. So, when you close the vents, you are spoiling the balance of your system.
What Should Be The Solution?
So what can be done to keep your home comfortable as well as save money on your energy bill? Leave your vents open to ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner. Or follow these steps before you close the vents:
