How to Cover Vents Efficiently
Home air vents get a lot of use circulating warm air in the winter and cold air in the summer. Although many homeowners keep every air vent open at full capacity year-round, this may not be the best approach. By strategically covering air vents, a homeowner can increase the energy efficiency of a home and actually regulate the temperature easier. Although covering air vents is a simple task, there are some things to consider in order to do it efficiently. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Install vent covers with air deflectors on all air vents that will remain open. These are also known as raised grill covers and provide a lever that directs air flow in certain directions. During winter, direct the air flow directly at the ground, since hot air rises. During the summer, direct the air flow towards the ceiling since cold air sinks.
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Install flat-face vent covers in rooms that do not receive much use. Flat-face vent covers will allow you to cover the vent with magnetic covers when the room is unoccupied.
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Determine which vents can be shut off and covered completely. Vents located in unused bedrooms as well as very small rooms can be closed to increase air flow to other rooms. Some kitchen vents can also be covered during winter since the kitchen stays warmer than other rooms.
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Place a magnetic vent cover over air vents in infrequently used rooms. If the air vent can be closed with a lever, make sure to do this first.
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Tips & Warnings
Before purchasing magnetic air vent covers, homeowners should ensure that the air vents are metal and not plastic. Do this by placing any household magnet, such as a refrigerator magnet, on the vent to see if it sticks.
