Vents, Registers, and Grilles: What’s the Difference?
as the temperature inside is as warm or cool as we want it and the thermostat responds as it should, we don’t give it a second thought.
It’s not until something goes wrong and we face the expense of hiring a professional for heating or cooling services that we give our HVAC system the attention it should be getting all year long. This is a particularly big problem in areas like Atlanta that are prone to experiencing sudden, extreme shifts in weather.
Extreme heat and cold put a huge strain on HVAC systems. When the system switches rapidly from cooling to heating or is suddenly forced to process much hotter and more humid air, the danger of a major malfunction increases.
The first step to preventing expensive HVAC service calls is awareness. Paying attention to how your system runs when all is well can alert you to potential issues before they become emergencies. The more you know about your HVAC system, the easier it will be for you to spot indicators of possible trouble.
Get to Know Your Vents
Vents are likely the most overlooked parts of your HVAC system. They’re present in every room and your system can’t function without them, but the most attention they ever get is the occasional dusting.
While your vents, registers, and grilles are unlikely to be a direct source of any major issues with your system, the more you know about them, the easier it will be for you to describe any problems you do encounter with your HVAC technician.
Know the Correct Terminology
Technically, “vent” is a generic term that refers to all intake and output sources for your HVAC system. Registers and grilles are specific types of vents and while they may look very much the same, they serve completely different functions.
Registers
This is the type of vent you’re probably the most familiar with. Registers are typically placed either up high on the ceiling or wall, or placed low on the floor or near the base of the wall. Most registers have a damper controlled by a lever or wheel that allows you to control the flow of air through the openings of the vent.
Grilles
This is the type of vent you probably ignore the most. Grilles are almost always placed up high on a wall or ceiling. Depending on the needs of the HVAC system, some spaces feature a few large grilles or many smaller ones. Grilles pull air back into the system for reuse.
Vent Issues to Watch For
While vents are unlikely to be the main cause of any major HVAC system malfunctions, they can be a contributing factor. Check your vents regularly for the following issues that could indicate bigger problems.
- Dirt or dust build up, especially if it’s dark in color or has a strange smell
- Debris stuck in the vent slats that may restrict air flow
- Rattling or clicking noises that last more than a few seconds
- Loose, cracked, or broken vent covers
Don’t Take Your HVAC for Granted
Your system needs regular attention to keep running at its best for as long as possible. In addition to performing regular inspections of your vents, schedule maintenance visits with a local HVAC service professional.
For more information on seasonal HVAC maintenance, contact Anytime Heating, Cooling and Plumbing or call (678) 904-2337 today!
