Central heating and cooling systems deliver air to every room in your Cincinati home via supply vents. And duct returns send that air back through the system so that it's re-heated or -cooled. Here’s a look at three rules duct returns should follow to optimize comfort.

Airflow

Proper airflow is achieved first by sizing and designing the ductwork properly. The optimal size and straight path of ductwork will improve airflow and decrease noise. Sealing ductwork is also important for high airflow. When there are gaps in the joints, air can escape and airflow suffers.

Balance

The number of supply and return vents should allow for an equal balance of pressure in your home. This is important to feel comfortable, and to prevent heated or cooled air from being squeezed out of the house or unconditioned air from leaking inside. It’s also necessary to calculate the heating and cooling load of each room and size ductwork accordingly, so a balanced temperature is achieved in every room as much as possible.

Comfort

Sometimes, a single duct return is installed in a hallway or other common area, but if bedrooms are to remain at the same pressure and temperature as the rest of the house, the doors must be kept open. This compromises privacy and affects your comfort. The issue can be remedied without changing the entire layout of duct returns by installing transfer grilles or jumper ducts from bedrooms to the hallway. To prevent drafts and make the house more comfortable, supply vents should located at the perimeter of the home and duct returns should be closer to interior walls.

With these components in mind, you can take the necessary measures to increase your home comfort. For more information about placement of duct returns, or for answers to other ductwork questions, please contact Tri-County Heating & Cooling, serving Butler County and Greater Cincinnati area homeowners. We’re happy to answer questions or offer expert advice on the subject of heating and air conditioning, ductwork and other HVAC topics.

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