How to cover kitchen ceiling vent?

[JakeAbb]

Hello!

How could I cover up this vent in my kitchen (picture attached)? Would it be alright if I just covered the whole thing with paper towels and tape? I don't intend on ever turning on the vent or cooking. I have a feeling bugs might be coming from the vent which is why I want to seal it. Thank you!

[EricL]

Hello @JakeAbb 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about covering your ceiling vent.

If the vent is around 250mm in size, I suggest having a look at the Fluidmaster 200 x 200mm White Access Panel. This will allow you to cover the hole without having to use plaster. Another option is to use some Syneco 1220mm x 2.05m Fibreglass Insect Screen and installing it in front of the grill of the vent. This will prevent any insect from coming in through that vent. The last option of course is to place a piece of plaster inside the hole itself, just like a manhole cover. 

The reason I'm hesitant to cover it permanently is that it was placed there for a purpose. It's not necessary for you to cook, but the ventilation feature must not be covered just in case you should need it.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[JakeAbb]

Thank you Eric! Until I'm able to get one of the products you mentioned, would it be alright if I temporarily covered the vent with paper towels, and used tape to hold the paper towels in place? Or is this a potential fire hazard? 

[EricL]

Hello @JakeAbb 

If you are not using the vent, I would suggest using cardboard or paper along with tape to cover the vent. The paper towel might not hold up very long and is too fragile to keep hanging for an extended period.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric