How to Replace an Air Vent Cover

Measure carefully when replacing your home's air vent covers.

Air vent covers contain adjustable levers designed to disburse air flowing from the ductwork of a forced air system. Replacement air vent covers add a distinct accent to a room or allow the air vent to blend into the room while remaining functional. You need two measurements to ensure a new air vent cover will correctly fit the ductwork opening.

Things You'll Need

• Step ladder
• Phillips screwdriver
• Air vent cover

Instructions

1. Set up a step ladder below an air vent. Get a taller ladder if reaching the vent requires you to stand higher than the rung marked "Do not stand on or above this step."

2. Hold the vent in place with your non-dominant hand while you turn the screws counterclockwise with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the cover away from the wall.

3. Measure the outside width and length of the vent. Measure the inside dimensions of the vent opening.

4. Compare the measurements from the old vent cover with the dimensions of the new vent cover. Push a new air vent cover in the wall opening if the new cover matches the size of the old cover.

5. Hold the air vent cover in position while you install the screws through the cover flange with a Phillips screwdriver.

References

• Shop 4 Classics: Registers, Grilles, and Vent Cover Tips