The objective of this field investigation was to compare the impacts on thermal comfort due to vertical location of return air inlets in a residential forced-air system operating in the cooling mode. Design guidelines for forced-air cooling systems recommend placing return air inlet locations above the occupied zone in order to improve circulation of stagnant air and reduce thermal stratification. A companion study of the heating mode is under way. Results from the research will be used to recommend optimal return air inlet locations for year round performance.

Units: Dual