When people get new furniture for their homes, they tend to move things around to make the new items fit. This movement can result in you placing objects in front of your HVAC vents. You may wonder if it is okay to put your furniture over the vent. Here are several reasons why you should avoid blocking it.
Your HVAC System Will Work Harder
One important reason you should not put your furniture over the vent is that it will cause your HVAC system to work harder. Because you have fewer open vents, your system will have to run longer to provide you with the same amount of warm or cold air.
But the issues may not end there. When your system works harder and longer, it suffers more wear and a reduced lifespan. The blockage also can break your heat exchanger and cause carbon monoxide to leak into the air. This gas can cause people to become ill and even have fatal effects.
Your Furniture Will Suffer Damage
Another reason it is not okay to put furniture over a vent is that the blockage can damage the item itself. The warm temperatures, humidity, and air can cause mildew and mold to develop on the upholstered products.
The blockage can even damage wood furniture. The humidity can cause the wood to shrink and dry out, its joints to loosen, and its boards to experience cracks. By keeping your furniture away from the vent, you save it from harm.
You May Cause a Fire Hazard
A third reason you should not put furniture in front of a vent is that it is potentially a fire hazard. If you block a heating vent and your furnace overheats, it could lead to a fire that will cause incredible damage to your home and well-being. In the end, putting furniture in front of your vents is not worth the risk, even if you have fire-rated vents in your home.
If you need to learn more about the dangers that can result in home fires, partner with Vulcan Technologies. We offer ASTM-certified home ventilation systems that will protect you and your family.
