Energy-Efficient HVAC Floor Registers

Open

• One key feature of an energy efficient HVAC register is that it must be able to be opened fully so that it doesn't restrict airflow. Older registers are adjustable, but even on the setting that appears to be wide open there may still be restrictions on the airflow coming from the ducts. An energy efficient register should allow air to flow out of it completely free from obstruction.

Deflectors

• You can purchase some floor registers that come with an air deflector, or you can purchase one after you've installed the register to make it more energy efficient. A deflector is a type of plastic hood that fits over top of the register to deflect air out into the main area of the room. Normally, the hot air simply rises straight out of the register instead of making it to the center of the room where people usually are. This causes the perception that the room is too cold, and causes people to turn up the heat. A deflector makes the room more comfortable without needing to increase energy consumption

Register Boot Seals

• The register boot is the connection below the register where it connects to the duct itself. The connection point between the duct and the boot is one place where energy is often lost. HVAC contractors can seal this connection using either special sealant tape or with an aerosol spray that seals up any gaps between the duct and the register.

Location

• The location that you install a register in also contributes to overall efficiency. Ducts leading to registers should be installed near exterior walls. Make sure they are located out of the way of the majority of traffic moving through the room. After installation, you also need to take care not to compromise the efficiency of the registers by placing furniture too close or on top of the registers because this makes them very ineffective.