Is it safe to seal off return vents?

Question

I have two return vents (I think that's what you call them - they are not where the central air cooling or heating come out of). One is located in the living room and one is between my bedrooms. Cigarette smoke comes in from at least one of these vents (you can smell it sometimes if you happen to be under it).
Would it be safe to seal at least one, or both, of these vents off with the clear plastic used for insulating windows? Would it have an effect on the central air or heating system when I turn it on?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Yes, but you'll greatly reduce the efficency of your central air system in those rooms, and depending where the air return is, possibly the whole system.

The grill you speak of isn't the return, or there'd be suction. It's a vent to allow air exchange between the rooms.

Answer 2

if you block the return air vents the furnace will overheat and costly repairs will follow. cigarette smell does not come from the return air vent the vent does not deliver any air. If there is a smell it would be coming from gaps around the vent not the vent itself..

Answer 3

No, don't block the return. The system depends on it. However, assuming you are in an apartment, call the manager and explain the problem.

Answer 4

yes, your heating and/or air conditioning will NOT work as effectively. You'll have "cold spots" and "hot spots".

NOT a good idea with the price of electricity (and everything else!)

Answer 5

You dont want to block them but you can put a filter in them . I use fabric softener sheets and it smells so nice.