DEFLECTING AIR VENT ~ An Easy, Effective Install On Plastic & Aluminum Vents….
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BOB SKIDMORE
CORRESPONDENT
(Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.)
Most of us have central air and heating units that distribute the temperature controlled air to our living spaces via vents in our ceiling, or floor. Quite often these vents may be positioned in a spot that directs the temperature treated air where it’s not desired thus causing drafts. An easy fix, known by many of us, is the use of a deflecting air vent attachment that can somewhat redirect the air so as to minimize, or eliminate drafts. This is adjustable from 9” to 15”. Note, When adjusting for its larger sizes you will need to separate the two panels from the first notch and remount them to the second molded notch. While an extremely practical solution, affixing these deflectors to existing vents can present a challenge. Most vents are made of plastic, or aluminum material which does not lend itself to affixing the magnetized deflectors. Also, placing the deflector directly on the vent can limit access to the vent’s controls for adjusting the louvers. So, an easy solution is the use of Gauder self-adhesive white METAL TAPE by 3M.
The metal tape, 1.25” in width, is available in 10, 20 and 41 foot rolls. It provides a self-stick backing that can adhere to rough surfaces and a metal top coating for affixing this and other items that use magnets, such as the vents we discussed above. It can also be used for numerous other applications where a metal surface is required to attach light weight items such as pictures, drawings and Tonie figures that are magnetized. The tape is easily cut with a normal pair of scissors. The protective backing that covers the adhesive surface peals off. The use of a small tweezer is probably necessary to aid in the peeling process. I found affixing a metal tape strip that’s the length of each side of the vent to the surface of the wall/floor adjacent to the vent works best. This still provides easy access to the vent’s controls. It also permits placing the vent in an upward, or downward position for the best redirection of air flow. If desired you can place tape around the total circumference of the vent giving it a visual picture framing look.
MSRP: Vent Deflector $17.99 4-pack • Adhesive Metal Tape 10’roll $12.99
GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★
For more information go to:
Deflector:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMLBV6DK?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
Metal tape:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JMY7QD4?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
Graphic credits: Amazon
Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at mailto:bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings.
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