567. Closing Vents in Rooms

Home and Life Comfort with Derek Cole

As homeowners, we are constantly trying to find ways to reduce our energy bills and save money. One of the most common tactics is to close the vents in rooms that are not in use. Although this may seem like a logical solution to save money on energy bills, it may not be the best idea. In fact, closing vents in unoccupied rooms can significantly impact your HVAC system and cause long-term damage.

It is a common misconception that closing vents in a room you’re not occupying will save you money on your energy bill. While it may seem logical, it can actually cause more harm than good. Closing vents in a room reduces airflow, which can lead to several problems within your heating and cooling system. The system compensates for the closed vents by working harder to distribute warm or cool air throughout the house. This puts additional stress on your HVAC system, leading to increased wear and tear, higher energy consumption, and ultimately, a higher energy bill.

Closing vents can also impact the balance of your HVAC system. All HVAC systems are designed with a certain number of vents and registers for optimal airflow. Closing vents in unoccupied rooms can lead to an imbalance of airflow within your system. The decreased flow of air to the closed-off rooms can cause high pressure in other areas of your home, leading to issues such as uneven heating or cooling, reduced indoor air quality, and increased humidity levels.

Another factor that can impact your HVAC system is the ductwork. Closing vents can cause a buildup of air pressure within the ductwork. This can lead to leaks in your ductwork, which can ultimately lead to poor indoor air quality and higher energy bills. Leaks in the ductwork also allow air to escape before reaching the desired temperature, again putting additional stress on the system and wasting energy.

Closing vents in unoccupied rooms may seem like a small change, but it can have a big impact on your home’s energy consumption and overall indoor air quality. Instead, consider alternative solutions like using a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature in unoccupied rooms or using fans to help circulate air throughout your home. These solutions promote optimal airflow and help maintain a healthy indoor environment while saving you money on your energy bill in the long run.