Can You Cover a Return Vent on the Floor?

Have you ever considered hiding a return vent in your flooring? You're definitely not alone. It may be an aesthetic concern, a dust magnet, or just in a troublesome location. Whatever your reason for wishing to disguise it, you're probably curious as to what its purpose is in your home, and just what might just go wrong if you choose to disguise it. Homeowners often wonder, can you cover a return vent on the floor?

What Return Vents Really Do

Return vents are an important component of your HVAC system. While supply vents distribute conditioned air in your house, a return air vent in the floor and wall draws air back in so that it will either be filtered, heated, or cooled. This is why it is imperative that you take care to clean your return vents as well.

By allowing return ventilation to work as it should, you will have an efficiently functioning HVAC system. By obstructing this airflow, you will unbalance it, often without realizing it.

What Occurs When You Cover a Return Vent?

Blocking a return vent appears to be harmless, but it may cause a number of issues. First, when air is restricted, it means that your unit will have to work extra hard. This will lead to a higher electricity bill as well as a shortened lifespan of your unit.

You might also notice uneven heating or cooling. Without adequate air return, you may experience stuffy areas in your home or areas that are too warm or too cool. In extreme situations, a lack of airflow may also impact your home’s air quality by allowing dust and humidity to build up.

In some situations, a return vent that is obstructed may lead to differences in pressure that may put a lot of strain on either the ducts or the motor of the blower fan. This is not just a routine problem that needs to be addressed - it’s an issue that needs to be resolved before it worsens.

Prettier Solutions to Floor Return Vent Grilles

We understand that aesthetics and functionality are considerations. The good thing is that you do not have to choose between a well-designed space and a well-functioning HVAC system. There are options that would allow you to have a well-designed return vent without sacrificing airflow.

You might want to look at decorative vent covers, such as a metal vent that matches your interior. This type of vent also allows airflow while giving your room a cleaner look. You should easily be able to find designs that fit your flooring and furniture.

Another option is that perhaps a concern in regard to the positioning of your vent needs to be addressed. In this situation, you or your chosen professionals may choose to relocate your vent. This will, of course, call for assistance. This is, in fact, an effective permanent remedy that will also be beneficial in terms of aesthetics. We have actually seen a number of clients move their return vents to less noticeable positions without impacting performance.

Another thing that you could do is make use of furniture in a strategic manner. Having a small object positioned near it, such as a side table or a plant stand, could easily redirect your focus away from it without completely hiding it.

The Bottom Line

Closing a return vent that is located in your floor may resolve a cosmetic issue, but it also creates several problems that have nothing to do with aesthetics. Your air ventilation system in your house needs an unobstructed airflow in order to work efficiently. If you're thinking about covering a return air vent, it's important to balance design needs with maintaining proper air circulation.

Rather than addressing it directly, you could choose an option that will make your home look better without affecting performance. This could include an attractive vented grille or a redesign. Whatever your needs may be, we're here at Ventiques to assist you in selecting the best option for your use!