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McCutcheon Air Conditioning and Heating Blog

Don't Block Your Return Vents: A Simple Way to Keep Your AC Running Smoothly

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Your home’s return vents play a crucial role in keeping your air conditioning system running efficiently.

These vents pull air back into your system, allowing it to properly regulate temperature and airflow. However, if they’re blocked by furniture or other household items, your system can struggle—leading to poor performance and even potential failure.

Where Are Your Return Vents?

Return vents are typically found on your walls or ceilings. Your main return vent is usually near your thermostat, but larger homes may have multiple returns spread throughout different rooms. Some return vents even contain filters, depending on your system setup.

Why Keeping Them Clear Matters

When a return vent is blocked, airflow is restricted, causing the system to work harder than it should. This can lead to:
✔ Increased strain on components
✔ Reduced efficiency and uneven cooling
✔ Higher energy bills
✔ Potential system failure

Quick Tip: Walk Through Your Home

Take a few minutes to walk around and locate your return vents. Make sure they’re free from furniture, curtains, or other obstructions to keep your AC working at its best.

A little preventative maintenance can go a long way in extending the life of your system and keeping your home comfortable all summer long!

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