There are many parts involved in HVAC systems from quite basic to extremely intricate.
Some parts are very similar and somewhat basic pieces of the big HVAC puzzle such as grilles and registers.
Here we’ll look at what each one is, their roles in HVAC systems, how they are different and what are options available on the market.
What to Look for in a Grille
There are several factors to consider when choosing between grilles, registers and air return covers: desired air flow, room size and shape, aesthetics and HVAC design principles. For instance, while a grille at the output of an HVAC system would allow free flow of air, a register is more appropriate in most cases.
This allows the air direction and flow to be changed to account for factors like furniture placement and where the room is populated. Obviously, the size of grille, register or return is primarily based on the HVAC system and ductwork dimensions.
Special consideration for the placement of air returns is taken when your system is designed – warmer air rises, and ideally warmer air is sent back to the system via the return. Ergo, an air return placed higher in a room is typically more efficient. Combined with grilles or registers placed on or near the floor, a high air return can create optimally efficient airflow for a system.
Making sure the right cover is put in place – whether a register or simple grille for air supply or return – is part of your initial design. But knowing the difference is key if you decide to redesign your interior or there’s an issue with one of these pieces.
Reviews the Best HVAC Ductwork Grilles
There are several different types of registers that are available on the market. Each is different in their dimensions, pros and cons, etc. All provide an idea of the choices that are available for different designs and placements.
Accord AMFRRBC410 Charleston Floor Register, 4-Inch x 10-Inch
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Review
This register is an example of the beautiful choices available on the market. It is 4 x 10 inches and would be used in a floor vent application. It has a steel frame, while the damper is made of plastic. A damper is important here to ensure proper airflow from the floor.
Pros
Plastic design allows for a rustproof product to ensure the function does not fail over time
Available in multiple sizes and metallic colors, allowing for consideration of overall design
Cons
Only for floor application, limiting their versatility
Decor Grates AJH410-RB Oriental Floor Register, Rubbed Bronze, 4-Inch by 10-Inch
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Review
This is another register design used in floor-vent applications. It is available in 4×10- or 4×12-inch designs. It has a steel frame, while the damper is made of plastic. A damper is important here to ensure proper airflow from the floor.
Pros
A plastic, rust-free damper is also attached to control air flow
Three metallic color options available to ensure an appropriate presentation in the room
Oriental, crisscross design provides a unique and aesthetically impressive touch to an HVAC system
Cons
Only for floor application, limiting their versatility
14×6 2-way Supply Grills
![14'w X 6'h 2-Way-Flat Stamped Steel - Vent Cover - Grille Register - Sidewall or Ceiling - High Airflow - White [Outer Dimensions: 15.75'w X 7.75'h]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41YOXGZw+7L.jpg)
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Review
As its name suggests, this “grille” is used on the supply end of the HVAC system. It does have a damper, allowing for control of air flow, so this would be considered a register. The slats on the grille are directionally split two ways, allowing for airflow to two different lateral directions.
Pros
14×6 inches, so would be used in a larger duct opening
Damper has multiple shutters to allow for appropriate directional control
Cons
Very bland design that only comes in white but is a serviceable unit for a business or large room
Accord AOSWOLL106 Oak Sidewall/Ceiling Register, 10-Inch x 6-Inch
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Review
The Accord AOSWOLL is a register that can be applied either in a sidewall or in the ceiling, proving quite versatile for residential design applications.
Pros
Plastic, allowing for a durable rust-proof function
Unique register made from solid oak, providing an eye-catching design
Cons
While more expensive than other designs, it certainly provides a unique look that is sure to please the eye
Being wood-based, it may be challenging to perfectly match multiple registers as the color can depend on the grain of the underlying wood
Accord APFRSNL212 Plastic Floor Register with Louvered Design
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Review
Don’t be fooled by the plastic description of this design, it still comes in a variety of metallic colors to provide a variety of applications. There are also multiple dimensional options allowing for multiple HVAC system designs.
Pros
Ideal for floor applications
Damper box is plastic to provide a rust-free finish
Cons
There is no damper control
What Does the Grille Do?
The grille, while not being the most productive piece of the greater HVAC system, is probably the most notable part. It covers the hole created by the end or entry point of ductwork. Grilles primarily serve as a gate preventing foreign objects from entering ducts.
Grilles are the parts of the system that we see on a daily basis. Rooms with a central heating and/or air conditioning supply are typically lined with grilles either in the wall or along the floor. Therefore, an aesthetically pleasing grille is vital to the overall architecture and design of a room.
Certainly, in a room with the vents along the floor, a grille plays a much more vital role. It keeps foreign objects, or feet for that matter, from falling into the duct system which would ultimately hinder HVAC performance (or cause a sprained ankle).
Grilles, Registers and Air Return
A register is a supply and an air return is, well, a return.
The most distinct difference between the two is that a register has a damper, in some cases known as a louvre, attached to it. This allows for the air direction to be changed and for control of the speed of the air coming out of the vent. The simplest damper at least prevents air from rushing into a room from a vent. A register will typically have a lever to adjust these two features, although some simply have a damper to control flow.
An air return is a type of grille that is less noticeable. This point is usually higher up on the wall or in the ceiling. A grille here allows for air to pass freely into the system while also limiting foreign objects entering the ductwork. However, there is no damper on an air return grille.
While the grille that makes up part of a register or the grille of any air return may very similar in exterior design, they play different roles and are entirely different on the back end.
Conclusion
There are multiple variables when considering between grilles, registers, and air return products. Function must be considered first along with overall system design. As we have seen in the reviews, there is enough variety to also consider the overall aesthetics and presentation.
At the end of the day, it is important to remember that the grille, register and air return are the face of the HVAC system. A well-designed, efficient system deserves an appropriately-chosen grille.
