HVAC systems can account for up to half of monthly energy costs; it’s not surprising that homeowners might seek ways to increase system efficiency. One thing many people do to increase HVAC efficiency is to close vents and ducts in rooms they don’t use often. While that might seem logical because you’re cooling less space in your home, closing ducts won’t actually increase HVAC system efficiency. Read on to learn more about this common HVAC myth.
Why Closing Vents Doesn’t Make Your HVAC System More Efficient
Professionals design comfort systems with specifics in mind, installing systems calibrated to push against a certain amount of pressure. If it has to pump air against an increased pressure, it can run more than normal or be overworked, leading to less efficiency and maintenance problems. Closing vents can cause the pressure in the system to increase. Some issues that can come from closing vents include:- Frozen coils because of overwork
- Duct leakage that wastes HVAC effort
- A cracked heat exchanger and carbon monoxide leak risks
- Mold and condensation issues in closed-off rooms, particularly in cold months
- Reduced comfort in other rooms because airflow is no longer appropriate