Common mistakes people make with wall vents

When it comes to home ventilation, wall vents play a pretty important role. They allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home, keeping things breathable and comfortable. But sometimes, in the hustle and bustle of daily life, we tend to overlook these small yet vital features of our home. If you’ve ever found yourself blocking a wall vent with furniture or letting dust pile up inside, it's not that uncommon. But those little mistakes can lead to some pretty big problems.

Common mistakes people make with wall vents

1. Blocking your wall vents with furniture

One of the biggest mistakes people make is putting furniture right in front of wall vents. Whether it’s your couch, bookshelves, or a big armchair, blocking your wall ventilation with bulky furniture can seriously affect airflow. When the air can’t circulate freely, you end up with stagnant, stuffy rooms and poor ventilation.

Blocking a wall vent not only affects airflow but can also strain your HVAC system, causing it to work harder to push air through the home. This can lead to higher energy bills. So, give your vents some breathing room - literally!

2. Forgetting to clean your wall vents

It’s easy to forget about cleaning your vents. After all, they’re not as obvious as a window or a door. But over time, dust, dirt, and even pet hair can build up in the vent, blocking airflow. And when your wall vents are clogged with dust, the air inside your home can get a little... stale.

All you need to do is vacuum the vent cover to remove dust and debris. If you’re feeling extra thorough, you can unscrew the cover and give it a wipe down. It’ll help your vents stay functional, and your air will feel a lot fresher too.

3. Ignoring proper vent placement

When installing wall vents, placement is key. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of putting their vents in places that don’t allow for optimal airflow. Placing a vent in a corner or behind a large object can restrict air movement, making your system inefficient.

If you’re building or renovating, consider the direction of airflow and the room's layout before installing your wall vents. A well-placed vent helps air circulate throughout the room, avoiding hot spots and damp areas. This is something we always recommend at Dragon Vents Australia - get the placement right from the start, and you’ll save yourself a lot of headaches down the line.

4. Not installing enough wall vents

You’d be surprised how often people don’t have enough wall vents in their homes. It’s easy to assume that one or two vents will do the trick, but if you want proper airflow, you’ll need more than that. Think of it like trying to breathe through a straw - it’s just not going to get enough air to your lungs. Similarly, one or two vents won’t provide the circulation needed for a healthy indoor environment.

At Dragon Vents Australia, we recommend considering the size and layout of your home when deciding how many vents you need. If your rooms are large or if you have several floors, you’ll likely need more than a couple of vents to keep air flowing properly.

5. Overlooking wall vent covers

Wall vents come with covers for a reason - they protect the inside of your vent from dust, dirt, and other debris. But sometimes people forget to check that the covers are properly installed or they leave them off completely. A missing or damaged cover is an open invitation for unwanted dirt, pests, or moisture to enter your home. And no one wants that.

Take a moment to inspect your vent covers every now and then. If they’re cracked, missing, or not properly sealed, get them fixed. It’s a small thing, but it can make a huge difference in the efficiency of your wall vents.

6. Not considering the type of vent

Not all wall vents are created equal. The type of vent you choose can affect the airflow and overall performance of your ventilation system. For example, traditional vents may not be as effective at keeping pests and moisture out as specialised, high-quality vents. That’s why we recommend our Dragon Vents - they come with enclosed mesh to keep out flies, dust, and even ember intrusion during bushfire season.

If you want to avoid the hassle of replacing poorly performing vents, consider upgrading to something that’s built to last and perform efficiently. At Dragon Vents Australia, we offer products designed for durability and maximum airflow - just what you need for a fresh and comfortable home.

7. Sealing vents shut

Sometimes, people think that closing their wall vents will keep cold air out or stop warm air from escaping. While this may seem like a good idea, it can actually mess with your ventilation system and make your home less comfortable. Sealing off vents blocks airflow, which can cause your home to become too hot or too cold, depending on the season. Plus, you’ll end up spending more money on heating and cooling because your system won’t be able to regulate the temperature properly.

If you need to control airflow, it’s better to adjust your system or invest in a more efficient vent. Sealing your vents shut is not the answer.

8. Neglecting to check for leaks or cracks

Finally, wall vents can develop leaks or cracks over time, especially if they’re older or not installed correctly. A leak in your vent means that air is escaping, and your system won’t be as efficient as it should be. If you notice any drafts near your vents or if the air feels uneven, it might be time to inspect them for damage.

Make sure the seals are intact and that the vent is securely in place. A quick inspection can save you from bigger problems later on.

Shop our wide range of wall vents

Wall vents are an essential part of your home’s ventilation system, but they can be easily overlooked or mishandled. Whether it’s blocking them with furniture, forgetting to clean them, or neglecting proper installation, these common mistakes can lead to poor airflow, higher energy bills, and even potential damage to your home.

By taking the time to properly maintain and install your wall vents, you’ll enjoy better air circulation, a more comfortable home, and fewer headaches. And if you’re looking to upgrade your system, Dragon Vents Australia has the perfect solution. Our high-quality vents are designed to keep air flowing, pests out, and your home in great shape.

Remember, a little attention to your wall vents now can save you a lot of trouble later on. So, take a moment to check your vents today - and breathe easier tomorrow!