Are return air vents necessary in every room?

Return air vents aren't required in every room, but proper placement is essential for system efficiency. According to industry standards, you'll need one return vent for every 100 to 150 square feet of living space. Ideally, each room would have its own return vent, especially larger rooms exceeding 100 square feet. Without adequate return airflow, your HVAC system works harder, energy costs increase, and comfort decreases. A professional assessment can determine the optimal number and placement of return vents for your specific home layout.

How can I tell if I need more return air vents?

Signs that your home needs additional return air vents include rooms that feel consistently stuffy, noticeable temperature variations between rooms, doors that slam shut when the HVAC system operates, or unexpectedly high energy bills. Excessive dust accumulation around supply vents can also indicate inadequate return airflow. If you experience these issues, consulting with an HVAC professional can help determine if adding return vents would improve your system's performance.

What is the difference between a return air vent and a supply vent?

Supply vents deliver conditioned air into your living spaces, while return air vents draw room air back to your HVAC system for reconditioning. Supply vents push treated air into rooms, while return vents pull air from rooms back toward your heating and cooling equipment. Both components are essential for proper air circulation and system balance. Without sufficient return capacity, your HVAC system may experience pressure imbalances that reduce efficiency and comfort.

How often should return air vents be cleaned?

You should inspect and clean your return air vents at least once annually, according to industry recommendations. However, homes with pets, allergy sufferers, or noticeable dust buildup may benefit from more frequent cleaning. Regular maintenance helps maintain good indoor air quality and ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently. Professional duct cleaning, which addresses the entire system beyond just the visible vents, is recommended every few years, depending on your home's specific conditions.

Top-Rated Ducts & Vents Installations and Replacements Experts in Los Angeles, CA

Ryan Mechanical, Inc.

Ryan Mechanical, Inc.

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

16 years of experience

With over 40 years of experience in the HVAC industry, we are the experts you need to take care of any of your residential or commercial needs. We will treat your home as we would treat our own. We look forward to working with you!

"He does extremely good work, quality work, and he really works hard to please his clients and he is fully knowledgeable in his field."

Ronnie J on April 2018

With over 40 years of experience in the HVAC industry, we are the experts you need to take care of any of your residential or commercial needs. We will treat your home as we would treat our own. We look forward to working with you!

"He does extremely good work, quality work, and he really works hard to please his clients and he is fully knowledgeable in his field."

Ronnie J on April 2018

Southland Heating and Air Conditioning

3543 Old Conejo Road, Suite 101

Southland Heating and Air Conditioning

3543 Old Conejo Road, Suite 101

Customers say: True professional

Recommended by 95% of Angi customers

72 local quotes requested

Choosing the right Heating and Air Conditioning Contractor is very important. Chances are you are going to make a substantial investment in your new HVAC system with which ever contractor you choose. There is nothing worse than investing a large amount of your hard earned money in a new system and winding up with a system that is noisy, inefficient, and does not perform properly. Or even worse, one that fails prematurely. Surprisingly enough most HVAC Contractors have no formal training. Untrained HVAC Contractors frequently do not size systems properly which could result in improper cooling, very high utility bills, and even systems that fail prematurely. Before you even consider a contractor make sure they are NATE Certified and Air Balance Certified. North American Technician Excellence is the Prestigious Certification of HVAC Competence. Using a NATE certified contractor is like using a surgeon that graduated Harvard Medical School with honors.

"Just had a furnace tune up done at my residence. The young technician, Jesus Morales, showed up on time and he did a great job in performing the thorough inspection to ensure that the system was working properly. I want thank Southland Heating for their seasonal reminders and deals."

Eduardo S on October 2024

Choosing the right Heating and Air Conditioning Contractor is very important. Chances are you are going to make a substantial investment in your new HVAC system with which ever contractor you choose. There is nothing worse than investing a large amount of your hard earned money in a new system and winding up with a system that is noisy, inefficient, and does not perform properly. Or even worse, one that fails prematurely. Surprisingly enough most HVAC Contractors have no formal training. Untrained HVAC Contractors frequently do not size systems properly which could result in improper cooling, very high utility bills, and even systems that fail prematurely. Before you even consider a contractor make sure they are NATE Certified and Air Balance Certified. North American Technician Excellence is the Prestigious Certification of HVAC Competence. Using a NATE certified contractor is like using a surgeon that graduated Harvard Medical School with honors.

"Just had a furnace tune up done at my residence. The young technician, Jesus Morales, showed up on time and he did a great job in performing the thorough inspection to ensure that the system was working properly. I want thank Southland Heating for their seasonal reminders and deals."

Eduardo S on October 2024

Drain Right Services, Inc.

Drain Right Services, Inc.

Customers say: Quick response

21 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

We are a full service plumbing company offering residential plumbing services in LA and Orange County. Our expert technicians offer a wide range of services for new installations and complete plumbing repair. Our services include drain cleaning, sewer repair, trenchless sewer, hot water heaters, gas lines, and water filtration systems. We guarantee fast, reliable, affordable plumbing services with up front flat rate pricing, so there are no surprises. Please browse our website to learn more about our company and our plumbing, drain cleaning, sewer repair, and other services. Give Drain Right Services a call today at (800) 208-8875 for more information or to request service at your home in LA or Orange County.

"Terrible people. DO NOT USE. I had my water main line burst at my house and the folks at drain right where in the neighborhood, identified a problem, and knocked on my door. My pregnant wife was home at the time of pipe bust, but was initially unaware of the issue as water was still making it to our home. At first we thought this was a godsend, nice workers who identified an issue wanted to help, how lucky are we. They kindly shut off the water to the house and asked my pregnant wife, who was freaking out by the amount of water shooting out from burst pipe, to sign an authorization form to do work. She was so grateful someone was there to help she happily signed the slip. I was grateful someone was able to help my wife while I was at work. The problem started when I noted what she had signed.. They charged me $341 for a visual inspection. They identified the problem as a tree root that struck a pipe (which was not what in fact happened) and wrote 2 appraisals for solving the issue. The fist solution was replacing the galvanized pipe with another galvanized pipe for $7500. The second was to re reroute the sewer line to our house with copper piping, estimated at a whopping $11,300. I tried to call manager the evening of the pipe bust schedule an appointment as the water was shut off to my house. No response. In fact it took the manager a week to return my phone call to schedule the job, which I had bid out and already resolved. I was recommended a plumber to get a second opinion, and he came promptly and re-routed the sewer line with coper piping for less than half what Drain Right was asking for the job. I have been trying to dispute this invoice with Drain Right for months because its my belief they initially took advantage of my pregnant wife and there terrible service, and instead of returning my phone calls they sent my bill to a debt collection service. What horrible service by a terrible business."

David s on January 2023

We are a full service plumbing company offering residential plumbing services in LA and Orange County. Our expert technicians offer a wide range of services for new installations and complete plumbing repair. Our services include drain cleaning, sewer repair, trenchless sewer, hot water heaters, gas lines, and water filtration systems. We guarantee fast, reliable, affordable plumbing services with up front flat rate pricing, so there are no surprises. Please browse our website to learn more about our company and our plumbing, drain cleaning, sewer repair, and other services. Give Drain Right Services a call today at (800) 208-8875 for more information or to request service at your home in LA or Orange County.

"Terrible people. DO NOT USE. I had my water main line burst at my house and the folks at drain right where in the neighborhood, identified a problem, and knocked on my door. My pregnant wife was home at the time of pipe bust, but was initially unaware of the issue as water was still making it to our home. At first we thought this was a godsend, nice workers who identified an issue wanted to help, how lucky are we. They kindly shut off the water to the house and asked my pregnant wife, who was freaking out by the amount of water shooting out from burst pipe, to sign an authorization form to do work. She was so grateful someone was there to help she happily signed the slip. I was grateful someone was able to help my wife while I was at work. The problem started when I noted what she had signed.. They charged me $341 for a visual inspection. They identified the problem as a tree root that struck a pipe (which was not what in fact happened) and wrote 2 appraisals for solving the issue. The fist solution was replacing the galvanized pipe with another galvanized pipe for $7500. The second was to re reroute the sewer line to our house with copper piping, estimated at a whopping $11,300. I tried to call manager the evening of the pipe bust schedule an appointment as the water was shut off to my house. No response. In fact it took the manager a week to return my phone call to schedule the job, which I had bid out and already resolved. I was recommended a plumber to get a second opinion, and he came promptly and re-routed the sewer line with coper piping for less than half what Drain Right was asking for the job. I have been trying to dispute this invoice with Drain Right for months because its my belief they initially took advantage of my pregnant wife and there terrible service, and instead of returning my phone calls they sent my bill to a debt collection service. What horrible service by a terrible business."

David s on January 2023

Insulation Commandos of Southern California

15500 Erwin Street, Suite 2463

Insulation Commandos of Southern California

15500 Erwin Street, Suite 2463

Customers say: True professional

420 local quotes requested

7 years of experience

Our services include: Blown in Cellulose & Fiberglass Attic Insulation, Batted (Rolled) Attic Insulation, Fireproof Blown Rockwool Insulation, Fireproof Batted Rockwool Insulation, Wall Insulation, Drill n Fill Wall & Ceiling Insulation, Crawl Space Insulation, Spray Foam Insulation, TAP Pest Control Insulation, New Construction and Commercial Insulation, Insulation Removal, Attic Air Sealing, Attic Decontamination & Sanitization, Radiant Barrier Insulation, Rodent Proofing, Soundproofing, Air Duct Replacement and Cut ins, Air Duct & Dryer Vent Cleaning, Attic Fan Installation, Indoor Air Quality products, Wildfire Ember Mesh, Kitchen Hood Venting & Dryer Duct Replacement.

"Todd the owner was very pleasant and accommodating. In addition, the discount we were extending for being veterans was much appreciated. Lastly, the technicians that performed the work onsite were extremely professional and courteous. I would recommend this company to all need insulation solutions."

Randy H on January 2025

Our services include: Blown in Cellulose & Fiberglass Attic Insulation, Batted (Rolled) Attic Insulation, Fireproof Blown Rockwool Insulation, Fireproof Batted Rockwool Insulation, Wall Insulation, Drill n Fill Wall & Ceiling Insulation, Crawl Space Insulation, Spray Foam Insulation, TAP Pest Control Insulation, New Construction and Commercial Insulation, Insulation Removal, Attic Air Sealing, Attic Decontamination & Sanitization, Radiant Barrier Insulation, Rodent Proofing, Soundproofing, Air Duct Replacement and Cut ins, Air Duct & Dryer Vent Cleaning, Attic Fan Installation, Indoor Air Quality products, Wildfire Ember Mesh, Kitchen Hood Venting & Dryer Duct Replacement.

"Todd the owner was very pleasant and accommodating. In addition, the discount we were extending for being veterans was much appreciated. Lastly, the technicians that performed the work onsite were extremely professional and courteous. I would recommend this company to all need insulation solutions."

Randy H on January 2025

Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning

8599 Venice Blvd.

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor

•Approved Pro

Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning

8599 Venice Blvd.

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor

•Approved Pro

43 local quotes requested

80 years of experience

In 1999, Pennell Air Conditioning and Brody Heating & Air Conditioning, both in West Los Angeles, merged and became Brody Pennell. Jack Pennell began serving Los Angeles area homeowners in 1945. Today, we carry on that great legacy of outstanding customer service as we continue to serve the next generation of our clientele. Our rapid response fleet is ready to serve you 24/7, when you need us the most. Our friendly technicians are knowledgeable and helpful, and we can fix most any problem you have. We look forward to adding you to the Brody Pennell family.

Accurate Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air

Accurate Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 90% of Angi customers

27 local quotes requested

Please see our Special Offers and Promotions, for a limited time only! We service the San Gabriel valley. Owner Jeff Seale has been in the construction field since 1989. When he was starting out, he witnessed other contractors who were not focused on customer service. They either didn’t complete the work correctly or they charged customers for work that was unnecessary. Jeff believed that customers deserved service that was both dependable and professional. Accurate, born out of the need for committed excellence and communication. We pride ourselves on an outstanding record of quality service. Our experience is testament to the level of service and quality you'll get when you choose Accurate for your heating and air conditioning needs. We have a staff of highly talented and motivated individuals that are eager to help you with all of your needs. We are excited you have expressed an interest in our services! We look forward to working with you.

"."

AJ B on August 2009

Please see our Special Offers and Promotions, for a limited time only! We service the San Gabriel valley. Owner Jeff Seale has been in the construction field since 1989. When he was starting out, he witnessed other contractors who were not focused on customer service. They either didn’t complete the work correctly or they charged customers for work that was unnecessary. Jeff believed that customers deserved service that was both dependable and professional. Accurate, born out of the need for committed excellence and communication. We pride ourselves on an outstanding record of quality service. Our experience is testament to the level of service and quality you'll get when you choose Accurate for your heating and air conditioning needs. We have a staff of highly talented and motivated individuals that are eager to help you with all of your needs. We are excited you have expressed an interest in our services! We look forward to working with you.

"."

AJ B on August 2009

RR Electric Heating & Air

RR Electric Heating & Air

Customers say: True professional

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

10 local quotes requested

When you need help with your home's heating, cooling, or electrical systems, you can count on our team at RR Electric Heating & Air to provide you with the high-quality services you deserve. Our experienced and certified Simi Valley electricians and HVAC technicians are focused on providing you with help that can help save you money. Whether it's providing you with energy efficient lighting, climate control options, or maintenance services, we can help keep your home comfortable and safe without breaking the bank.

"Replaced my gas furnace and air conditioner with a heat pump. The only company I contacted who did a thorough analysis of my home and electrical system to determine exactly what I needed. Side note: I requested this service because my furnace quit working. The technician who came out to evaluate my home repaired the furnace for free while doing his analysis. I still bought the heat pump, but this company definitely did not simply try to just sell me one."

Stephen S on June 2024

When you need help with your home's heating, cooling, or electrical systems, you can count on our team at RR Electric Heating & Air to provide you with the high-quality services you deserve. Our experienced and certified Simi Valley electricians and HVAC technicians are focused on providing you with help that can help save you money. Whether it's providing you with energy efficient lighting, climate control options, or maintenance services, we can help keep your home comfortable and safe without breaking the bank.

"Replaced my gas furnace and air conditioner with a heat pump. The only company I contacted who did a thorough analysis of my home and electrical system to determine exactly what I needed. Side note: I requested this service because my furnace quit working. The technician who came out to evaluate my home repaired the furnace for free while doing his analysis. I still bought the heat pump, but this company definitely did not simply try to just sell me one."

Stephen S on June 2024

Pennie's A/C Solar & Construction

2851 W Ave L, Ste 215

Pennie's A/C Solar & Construction

2851 W Ave L, Ste 215

52 local quotes requested

24 years of experience

Our company is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customer's interests and make their concerns the basis of our business. Please give us a call today!

"Ducts needed replacing and new vents, Pennies HVAC come out, and gave me a excellent quote and the work was amazing, Thank you pennies HVAC for your service "

omar N on June 2025

Our company is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customer's interests and make their concerns the basis of our business. Please give us a call today!

"Ducts needed replacing and new vents, Pennies HVAC come out, and gave me a excellent quote and the work was amazing, Thank you pennies HVAC for your service "

omar N on June 2025

Sean Patrick HVAC, Inc.

13236 Flagstaff Drive

Sean Patrick HVAC, Inc.

13236 Flagstaff Drive

Customers say: Quick response

123 local quotes requested

5 years of experience

Welcome to Sean Patrick HVAC, Your Trusted HVAC Contractor Serving SOCAL, CA and Surrounding Areas. For over 10 years, we’ve provided exceptional HVAC repairs, HVAC replacement, air conditioning maintenance, furnace replacement, and indoor air quality services for residential and commercial customers. Our NATE-certified technicians have the experience and expertise to correctly diagnose and repair all makes and models of HVAC systems. We offer 24/7 emergency HVAC repair service, so you’re never left in the cold or heat. As your local HVAC contractor, we provide: HVAC Repairs – Get your AC, furnace, or heat pump running again quickly with our skilled repair technicians HVAC Replacement – We replace old, inefficient HVAC systems with new top brand models properly sized for your home/business Air Conditioning Maintenance – Preventative maintenance maximizes the lifespan of your AC system Furnace Replacement – We replace broken furnaces with energy efficient new models

"spoke to Laura on a monday had my AC installed on thursday the technicians were on time and very professional.Sean answered all my questions and gave me a estimate right away.its good to know there are still contractors that take pride in there work I highly recomend SPH. "

David O on May 2025

Welcome to Sean Patrick HVAC, Your Trusted HVAC Contractor Serving SOCAL, CA and Surrounding Areas. For over 10 years, we’ve provided exceptional HVAC repairs, HVAC replacement, air conditioning maintenance, furnace replacement, and indoor air quality services for residential and commercial customers. Our NATE-certified technicians have the experience and expertise to correctly diagnose and repair all makes and models of HVAC systems. We offer 24/7 emergency HVAC repair service, so you’re never left in the cold or heat. As your local HVAC contractor, we provide: HVAC Repairs – Get your AC, furnace, or heat pump running again quickly with our skilled repair technicians HVAC Replacement – We replace old, inefficient HVAC systems with new top brand models properly sized for your home/business Air Conditioning Maintenance – Preventative maintenance maximizes the lifespan of your AC system Furnace Replacement – We replace broken furnaces with energy efficient new models

"spoke to Laura on a monday had my AC installed on thursday the technicians were on time and very professional.Sean answered all my questions and gave me a estimate right away.its good to know there are still contractors that take pride in there work I highly recomend SPH. "

David O on May 2025

Victor Services, LLC

Located In:

5.00(

2

)

•Approved Pro

Victor Services, LLC

Located In:

5.00(

2

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

1580 local quotes requested

We have 25 years experience and specialize in remodeling, handyman services, home repairs, home improvements, and more. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service. Check out all the services we offer below and call -or- click to schedule a free estimate today!

"Service performed was great. Will rehire to continue with additional renovations."

.Evelyn j on September 2024

We have 25 years experience and specialize in remodeling, handyman services, home repairs, home improvements, and more. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service. Check out all the services we offer below and call -or- click to schedule a free estimate today!

"Service performed was great. Will rehire to continue with additional renovations."

.Evelyn j on September 2024

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Get matched with top ducts & vents installers and replacers in Los Angeles, CA

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Ducts & vents installers and replacers in Los Angeles

Ryan Mechanical, Inc.

Ryan Mechanical, Inc.

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Southland Heating and Air Conditioning

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Drain Right Services, Inc.

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Insulation Commandos of Southern California

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Sean Patrick HVAC, Inc.

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Victor Services, LLC

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