Where is the typical location for return air grills in a residential HVAC system?

In a residential HVAC system, return air grills are typically located on interior walls out of drafts. This positioning is essential for the efficient functioning of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. By placing return grills on interior walls, the design minimizes the impact of drafts that may be caused by exterior doors or windows, ensuring that the air is drawn in more consistently and effectively.

This strategic placement allows for a more balanced temperature throughout the home, improving comfort levels by ensuring that return air is taken from areas without significant temperature fluctuations. By capturing air from deeper within living spaces rather than near exterior sources, the HVAC system can operate more efficiently, enhancing overall airflow and maintaining desired indoor climate conditions.

Locating return air grills under windows on interior walls would likely capture cold drafts during winter or heat in the summer, which can disrupt airflow and comfort levels. Similarly, placing them on exterior walls under windows or in front of doors would expose the system to fluctuating outdoor temperatures, which is not ideal. Thus, positioning them on interior walls out of drafts is the preferred choice for optimizing HVAC performance.