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A traditional central AC system should provide consistent cooling throughout an entire home. Uneven cooling undermines comfort and is frustrating because the cause is often unclear. Let’s explore the signs you’re dealing with uneven cooling and what you can do about it.
The Signs of Uneven Cooling in a Home
Uneven cooling manifests as areas of varying temperatures or warm spots. Those warm spots may affect small areas or even entire rooms and hallways. In multistory homes, a common problem is temperature differences between floors because heat rises. A two-degree or greater difference between floors often indicates airflow issues. You may experience high humidity in summer or low humidity in winter. AC performance issues can include bigger electric bills and irregular cycling.
Fixing Uneven Cooling in Your Home
Enjoying even cooling in a home begins with ensuring the cooling equipment is well-maintained and functioning optimally. Next, check for factors in your home that may hinder cooling.
Regular Filter Changes
If the pressure in your ducts is too high or low, cooled air won’t settle evenly throughout the home. One cause of high pressure is the HVAC filter, which the industry rates using the MERV rating system. The higher the rating, the better the filtration but the greater the static pressure. Use only filters within the MERV range your AC system supports. Consider also that a clogged filter can similarly restrict airflow. Check your filter at least once a month, and replace it when you see dust accumulating on the outer surface or hear a whistling sound.
Keep Vents and Doors Open
Central AC systems typically treat the entire home as one zone and can’t adjust pressure in different areas. Experts advise against closing vents in unused rooms for this reason. It’s counterproductive and doesn’t save money. Check and clean all your HVAC vents monthly. Too many closed doors in a home can interfere with airflow as well; however, closing a few bedroom doors is fine. Make sure all the other doors in the home are open so that air can flow in and out as needed.
Maximize Circulation
Good circulation supports even cooling and good air quality. While your AC circulates air, fans can enhance it, especially in larger homes with expansive areas. Experts recommend ceiling fans in all rooms where they’re practical. Ensure ceiling fans are set appropriately for summer, which is by setting them on the highest speed and a counterclockwise rotation. Consider using a high-capacity air circulator in rooms where ceiling fans aren’t practical, and set your AC fan to “on” as needed for increased circulation. For improved ventilation, consider adding a mechanical ventilation system.
Good HVAC Maintenance
Watch for signs your AC is struggling to meet temperature targets. A typical AC shouldn’t turn on and off more than several times an hour. It should run for longer than 15 minutes a cycle. Monitor for reduced airflow from vents, and listen for unusual noises that indicate issues with the blower or ducts.
Schedule an AC tune-up every spring, which will keep your blower and AC components in top shape. Every couple of years, schedule a duct inspection. Ducts can accumulate dust and other debris and require periodic cleaning. Leaky ductwork can cause significant loss of conditioned air and may require sealing. Cooling systems can also benefit from periodic air balancing, which involves a series of blower and duct services to achieve maximum airflow.
Upgrade Your Attic Insulation
Attic ventilation, a fundamental aspect of traditional attic construction, helps control temperature and moisture, and it promotes a healthy roof and conserves the structural integrity of the home. For the highest energy efficiency, install at least 14 inches of attic insulation to reduce heat transfer through your ceiling. It’s also important to replace insulation if it’s old and damaged.
Seal Your Home
Excessive natural ventilation can also lead to uneven indoor temperatures. To identify other sources of air leaks, consider blower door testing. Conditioned air can escape through cracks in walls and the foundation, so sealing these will promote more consistent cooling.
Call on the Pros
Bryant’s Heating & Cooling is a top-rated HVAC company based in Fort Payne, AL. We employ NATE-certified technicians who can help you overcome the cooling challenges in your home. Our company offers seasonal cooling maintenance and has a Comfort Club to help you save. We provide duct-related services, including camera inspections, cleaning, and sealing.
You can also count on us for blower door testing and attic insulation installation. Call today or contact us online to learn more about the many services and products we offer.
