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What is an Air Diffuser?

Misty Amber Brighton
Misty Amber Brighton

An air diffuser is a device that is designed to provide uniform air flow throughout a room. It works to increase the efficiency of air conditioning units by dividing and distributing cooled air. When an even airflow is maintained, drafts and hotspots in a room are eliminated, providing greater comfort to occupants, while increasing energy efficiency.

A ceiling is the most common location for an air diffuser. One is also sometimes installed on walls or windows. The type, size, and location of the diffuser depends on many factors. These include the layout of the building or room, location of doors and windows, and type of air conditioning system being used. The desired look and function of the air conditioning diffuser will also affect how and where it is placed.

An air diffuser.
An air diffuser.

The concept of an air diffuser is relatively simple. Air flows naturally through a duct. The diffuser captures this air, as it comes through the air conditioning system, and splits the forced air into smaller streams. The tiny currents of air are then directed in an even flow throughout the room. These streams can not typically be felt while the air is circulating.

Ceiling air diffusers can be made of steel, aluminum or plastic.
Ceiling air diffusers can be made of steel, aluminum or plastic.

When this air conditioning device is placed in a room, the temperature will usually drop faster than when one is not used. Since the room can be cooled quickly, the thermostat may be turned up more at night in order to save energy. This is especially beneficial in areas that have a high degree of humidity during the day.

For home use, an air diffuser that fits over a register can be employed. This type is usually inexpensive and easy to install. The device is typically white, but can be painted any color necessary to match a room's decor. This kind generally resembles a register or vent cover.

Floor diffusers are the most common type of air diffuser for home use. Others may cover a baseboard or ceiling register. Those that cover vents in walls are somewhat larger than other residential types, and are preferred when an air conditioning vent is along the lower edge of a wall.

Air diffusers help air conditioning units work more efficiently. They do not need a power source in order to operate. By dispersing the air flow evenly throughout an area, they help maintain comfortable working and living conditions. They are a wise investment for anyone looking to increase the efficiency of an air conditioning unit, and provide even air temperatures in both commercial and residential environments.

Discussion Comments

strawCake

@JaneAir - I sympathize. Utility costs are high where I live too. And the summer gets so hot that going without air conditioning is just not an option.

My parents actually just bought some air diffusers for their house and they saw a definite difference in their energy bill. I think I'm going to invest in some too! Even if there is an upfront cost, I think the amount of money I'm going to save will make it more than worth it.

JaneAir

Energy costs in my area are pretty astronomical so I've been looking for ways to save some money. It sounds like this air diffuser thing could be really helpful.

My air conditioning costs me so much money! There is such a huge difference in my summer and winter electric bills and I'm pretty sure the AC is to blame. I think if I could just increase the efficiency of my air conditioner I could save some money.

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    • An air diffuser.
      By: Kevin Penhallow
      An air diffuser.
    • Ceiling air diffusers can be made of steel, aluminum or plastic.
      By: Gennadiy Poznyakov
      Ceiling air diffusers can be made of steel, aluminum or plastic.