A hole disguised as an air vent is actually a trap for grenade throwers. (Screenshot via Instagram) Editor’s note: This article was first published on Aug. 31, 2022.

“Covering up or blocking return air vents, where the system draws in the air, inside the home is another common problem we see. These things can be like asking your system to work harder while ...

This is most important for older homes with a centrally located return vent. Your HVAC system likes balance — it pushes air into rooms and pulls air back into the air handler.

If your return air vents aren’t getting air from the rooms with air supply vents, the HVAC system will pull smoky air into your house to make up the difference.

When working correctly, the air conditioner pulls warm air through return air vents in rooms throughout the house. Coils in the evaporator unit are filled with a refrigerant and absorb heat.

When the NCSO deputies went to Paul Smith's residence in the 300 block of Sugar Lane in Angelina County Tuesday morning, they found him hiding in an air return vent.