How to Choose Vent Covers

Registers are the vent covers that control air flow into a room from heating and cooling systems.
They have a louvered damper that can be directed in one or more directions.

• The best floor registers for residential spaces direct air flow in four directions.
• Registers used in walls and ceilings force colder air down into a room while those in floors push heated air up. This creates a more even temperature throughout the space.
• A blocked register can greatly affect the temperature in a room.

Grilles are the vents through which air is pulled out of a room for circulation back to the central heating or cooling unit. An unobstructed flow is required for system efficiency. Several small grilles may be utilized and located throughout the home. Or one large grill may be positioned near the furnace.

• They have no dampers behind the slats to close off the flow of air.
• They may be located in floors, ceilings or walls.
• Wall transfer grilles, door grilles and jump ducts are helpful for maintaining a steady return air flow in homes that have a centrally located grille.

Grilles and vents come in different sizes. A standard floor vent size has a duct opening of 4 inches x 10 inches. Figuring out how to measure a floor register is simple. Follow these measurement instructions for a snug fit.

• Locate the register or grille you are replacing. Note if it is for a wall, ceiling or floor.
• Remove the screws that hold the existing vent in place.
• Pull the vent forward and out of the opening.
• Measure the size of the air duct opening.
• Write down the width and length of the opening.

Tip: If the vent or grilles opening is especially large, choose a replacement with wide borders.

When it comes to choosing the right vent cover, you'll want to consider things like style and finish.
A wide range of registers and grilles are available to match or complement your home’s decor. Here are some of the options available to you:

• White registers and grilles: A great pick for any room with white trim, white registers and grilles blend seamlessly into your decor.
• Black registers and grilles: Going for a monochromatic design? Black registers and grilles are excellent in more modern spaces.
• Brown or tan registers and grills: More neutral than black, brown and tan registers look great in rooms with wood paneling. They also tend to blend better in more traditional homes.
• Decorative vent covers: Decorative designs come in a variety of styles and finishes to match your room’s aesthetic.

Tip: Always consider vent placement when you are placing furniture on or around a vent. Make sure not to create a draft or block a vent.