Many homeowners believe they can save money by closing upstairs air vents, but they’re completely wrong. Rather than saving you money, this practice will result in higher costs.
Why Closing Upstairs Air Vents Increases Energy Usage
When you close upstairs air vents, you deprive your heating and cooling system of sufficient airflow. This practice also increases pressure in the system. Your heater and air conditioner will work more, not less. This results in higher energy bills.
Furnace Problems
When you close upstairs air vents, low airflow can overheat and crack your furnace’s heat exchanger. If this happens, you’ll probably need a new furnace.
Air Conditioner Problems
Your air conditioner system has an evaporator coil that can ice over when there’s low airflow. This can cause liquid refrigerant to flow back to the outdoor AC unit, where it can cause serious damage and even destroy it.
Duct Leakage
The average home loses 20-30% of conditioned air in the ductwork. When you close upstairs air ducts, the ductwork will lose even more conditioned air. Much of the conditioned air produced by your furnace and air conditioner will never reach the inside of your home. This is because the increased pressure caused by closing air vents forces even more air out of any holes or cracks in the ductwork than normal.
Lower Home Comfort
If your heating and cooling system has a PSC blower, it won’t be able to deal with higher pressure than it was designed for. This causes the blower to slow down. It will take longer for your home to heat up or cool down when you close upstairs air vents. Your home won’t be as comfortable as it should be.
Crest Air in Palm Beach, FL, can help you save money on your energy bills. We replace, repair and maintain air conditioners, heat pumps, packaged systems and geothermal systems. Our team can also help you with mini-splits and indoor air quality. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment.
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