How do you size a return air grill?
To calculate return air grille size, take the CFM of the HVAC unit and divide it by 350 to get the grille area in square feet. Next, multiply the grille area by 144 to convert it into square inches. Finally, choose your preferred grille size that matches the required grille area.
Does return grille need filter?
A return air grill and its filter needs to maintained and cleaned at least once every quarter. Such cleaning can also lead to a system functioning with less noise, as a clogged filter can increase the noise level, because of the greater strain placed on the blowers and fans.
Can a return air duct be too big?
No such thing as too much return. It will not take in any more air than it pushes out, thus no such thing as too big. Its hard to imagine a return that is too big ,but you want the return to have some draw to evacuate an area.
Can you put a filter on a return vent?
For most homes, return vents filters are suggested. They typically won’t cause any damage to your HVAC system and are easy to install – there’s no need for an HVAC technician. Besides having a good primary filter, return vent filters can resolve this problem immediately upon placing one on the vent.
Do I need both a furnace filter and a return air grill filter?
Do I Need Both a Furnace Filter and a Return Air Grill Filter? Yes, you are going to need a furnace filter and a return duct filter. The main purpose of the furnace filter is to protect the blower from dust, debris, pet dander, and so on.
Why is my return air vent so dirty?
Here are some of the most common culprits: Your air ducts are leaking. Cracked or damaged air ducts can allow contaminants to enter your system and cause your filter to clog up. They can also significantly increase your energy bills.
How do I know what size vent cover to buy?
In many cases you will need to size down the cover to ensure the cover and its accompanying border will fit your duct. This is done by subtracting the size of the border (typically 1″-1.5″) from the opening size. e.g. a 10″x4″ duct opening that butts up against a wall can be covered by a 10″x3″ cover.
What is the standard vent cover size?
The most common sizes are 4″x10″, 4″x12″, 6″x10″, and 6″x12″ in medium-sized rooms such as bedrooms and dining rooms. Smaller sizes may be found in areas such as laundry rooms, bathrooms, and hallways.
What happens if the return air vent is too small?
If the return duct is too small, there are an inadequate number of return grilles or they are undersized, it can’t return enough air to recirculate back into the system. The average duct system has 25% less return air than required according to National Comfort Institute.
How big should a return air vent be?
16 inches by 20 inches
A typical return vent is 16 inches by 20 inches, according to Hunker. It includes the cold return air duct grille. If you consult the duct CFM sizing chart, you can quickly figure out that a 16×20 inch can handle about 1,500 CFM airflow. Here’s where most people make a mistake.
What kind of filter is for a return vent?
Using a MERV-2 or MERV-3 filter in your return vent works well if you already have a pleated filter at your HVAC unit. Fiberglass filters work well as pre-filters in return vents because they have low MERV ratings. This MERV-2 air filter comes in a pack of 12 and is a great solution for return vents.
Can you put a filter in a cold air return?
Installed at the return vent in your home, they pre-filter dust and other particles. This keeps your ductwork clean and extends the life of the main filter at your HVAC unit. If you have a standard-sized return vent in your home, it will be able to accommodate a regular, rectangular-shaped air filter.
Should return air vents have filters?
In general, it is recommended to have an air filter in every return vent (as long as you choose the one of the right size and thickness). The filters will improve the air quality in your house and will protect the HVAC equipment from dust, pollen, pet dander, and hair.
Is duct cleaning a waste of money?
Because we believe it’s a waste of money for our customers. Here is what they concluded: “Duct cleaning has never been shown to actually prevent health problems. Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts.