Should I Keep My Ducted AC Vents Open or Closed?

Ducted AC vents should always be open. You should never keep it closed. Many homeowners are unsure about whether the vents of the aircon system should be open or closed. Many of them believe that closing the vents in the unused rooms will save energy consumption. Let’s know the reasons why we should not keep the vents closed. Before that, let’s know in a brief how a ducted AC system works.

How Ducted AC Systems Work

Ducted AC systems’ working process consists of a complex duct network that both cools air and returns air sucking away from the space. During installation, technicians calibrate the system to deliver air throughout the house based on its layout, vent quantity, and each space’s cooling or heating requirements. A ducted aircon system consists of duct vents which are the openings that allow the air to be delivered in the space. 

The Impact of Closing Vents 

As you know, each room or space in a ducted system has air vents, some people believe that turning off the vents in unused rooms will consume less electricity. However, this is not the right idea. Closing a vent raises the pressure throughout the duct system which can lead to problems.

• Reduced Efficiency: When vents are shut, back pressure builds up in ductwork which forces the AC unit into overworking. It results in more electricity consumption and reduced efficiency.
• Duct Leaks: Increased pressure due to closed vents creates leaks in ductwork. Air escapes continuously through these leaks which reduces system efficiency.
• Imbalanced Airflow: Ducted systems function ensuring uniform airflow. Closing vents in one area disrupts airflow balance which results in uneven temperature distribution.
• System Wear and Tear: Closing some vents means making the AC push air through fewer outlets. It causes extra strain which accelerates system wear and tear. 

Should You Ever Close AC Vents? 

You should never close the AC vents to control the temperature of a certain area. To manage airflow in distinct parts of the system, you may install zone control systems. 

Zoning provides temperature regulation throughout different areas. It will also maintain balanced duct pressure. With this approach, you can deliver precise heating and cooling to specific areas without losing extra energy.

FAQs 

Does closing vents save energy? 

No, closing vents inside a ducted AC system leads to increased duct pressure. It forces the unit to operate harder and increases energy consumption instead.

Can closing vents damage my AC system? 

Yes, it can. Increased pressure from closed vents results in duct leaks and imbalanced airflow. It will ultimately decrease the lifespan of the AC.

What is a zoning system? 

A zoning system enables independent temperature control for different areas or rooms. It helps optimize energy consumption while maintaining open vents.

Should I close vents in unused rooms? 

No, it’s generally not recommended. Open vents ensure balanced airflow throughout your system.

How can I improve AC efficiency without closing vents?

Regular maintenance work, implementing programmable thermostats or zoning systems, and properly insulating the system will increase the efficiency of your AC.