Uneven cooling is a common problem, especially in multi-story homes. Dirty
filters, ductwork issues, or the age of your air conditioning system can all
affect how well your AC
cools the various parts of your home. If one part of your home
feels like a sauna while another feels like Alaska, the following tips may
provide a solution.
Check Your Vents:
Start by making sure that all vents and registers are free of dirt and
debris and that they are not blocked by furniture or other items. If the second
floor of your home is overly warm, you can partially close some of the
first-floor vents. This will help direct more of the cool air to the second
floor of your home.
Adjust the Fan Setting:
Most people keep the fan setting on their thermostat in the "auto"
position. This means that the fan only runs and circulates air during the
cooling cycle. Switching the fan to "on" allows it to continue to run
even when the rest of the system cycles off, which can help even out the
temperature throughout the house.
Check for Leaks:
Small holes, tears, and gaps in your ductwork can allow cool air to escape
before it reaches its intended destination. Ductwork leaks also force your air conditioner to work harder, which can significantly shorten the
lifespan of your system. An HVAC professional can inspect your ducts and make
any necessary repairs.
Add Insulation:
Adding more insulation to your attic will help you get more out of your air
conditioner by keeping the cool air in and the hot air out.
Upgrade Your AC:
Although it does require a larger financial investment, a new zone cooling
system will give you the flexibility to independently control the temperature
in various parts of your home. An HVAC professional can help you design a zoned
system based on the size and layout of your home along with how you use the
various spaces within the home. If your air conditioner is more than 10 years
old, it is probably time to considering replacing it. Air conditioning
technology has improved significantly over the past decade to provide greater
comfort and energy efficiency.
J.R. Perkins Heating & Cooling has been providing Phoenix,
specifically Scottsdale, and the surrounding area with reliable HVAC service
since 1960. To learn more please visit our website at www.JRPerkins.com or call (480) 422-4437.
