Many homeowners are interested in saving on one of their most significant expenses: the electricity consumed by the central heating and cooling system. If your energy bills continue to rise, closing vents in unused rooms may seem like a cost-effective solution. But does this really help your HVAC system use less energy?

Is Closing Vents in Empty Rooms Cost-Effective?

Unfortunately, while closing your vents will stop air from flowing out of them, it won’t stop your HVAC unit from pushing air toward them. As a result, air will simply rush up and hit the closed vent fins, remaining in the ductwork. This method will make your unit work harder in an attempt to distribute the air evenly throughout your house.

Closing vents in unused rooms could create problems in your HVAC system that require repair, so you end up spending money instead of saving it. For example, if you have small leaks in your ductwork, the increased pressure could expand them. Closing vents could also reduce air flow to the evaporator coil, causing this part to freeze over and damage neighboring components.

What Are Effective Ways of Conserving Costs?

If you want to cut down on HVAC costs, focus on keeping your windows closed during the day. This will limit the amount of infrared heat that streams into your home and forces your unit to work harder.

Year-round, check for gaps around doors and windows, which could be letting treated air out and outdoor temperatures in, as well as increasing insulation in your attic and basement. Additionally, add insulation strips to windows and doors to preserve the temperature in your home and keep drafts at bay.

When your utility bill feels unmanageable, turn to Duncklee Cooling & Heating, Inc. in Stonington, CT, for help. They have over 40 years of experience providing HVAC services to commercial and residential clients in the Eastern Connecticut and Rhode Island area. Whether you want to design a custom system for your house or upgrade your furnace, call (860) 535-2552 to discuss your needs. Visit their website to browse their services.