Most of us would rarely consider that the vent covers have much to do with the overall function and health of our heating and cooling system. However, they are essential to the system and how it distributes conditioned air through a home. Let’s learn more.
Vent Covers
The vent cover is a metal grille that is placed over the opening where the air flows out of your ductwork and into your home. The slats on the vent covers aid in keeping dirt and debris from sucking into the actual vent, which would then contaminate the filtered air, and risk causing damage to the ductwork and the HVAC operating system.
Keep in mind that a vent cover is different from a vent register. A register has dampers that can be adjusted, directing the flow of air. A vent cover is static and can’t be adjusted. Each vent in a home should have a properly fitted vent cover.
Some think that a closed register in rooms they don’t use will save energy and wear and tear of the HVAC system, but that is far from the truth and this method is not recommended. You will know that the vent cover is closed but your HVAC system will not be aware of the change and will continue to send air through the ductwork to that vent. This will cause a build up of air which reduces the air flow and will add stress to the system. There is also a risk that a closed air vent could allow for mold or mildew to develop in the vent and ductwork creating an unhealthly system and indoor envirnoment. The more humid the area the higher the risk.
Always keep in mind that there is a reason that the air vent covers aren’t closed or covered, make sure that items such as furniture, rugs, curtains, and other items aren’t blocking any vent covers in the home.
For all your HVAC needs, contact us at Jackson & Sons. We provide quality home comfort solutions to the Eastern North Carolina area.
