Hot Upstairs and Cold Downstairs: Managing Uneven Home Cooling Issues

Hot air rises because gases expand as they heat up. If you live in a two-story home, you know this all too well.

However, when it’s hot upstairs and cold downstairs, there are things you can do to regulate the temperature in your home. Keep reading to learn possible solutions to uneven cooling.

Change Your Air Filter

If your home is hot upstairs and cold downstairs, the first thing you can do to solve the problem is to change your air filter. If the air filter is clogged, your system has to work harder to push air through the house.

Swapping out an old filter for a new one can bring the temperature upstairs down. You should regularly change out air filters to avoid this issue in the future.

Ductwork Insulation

If changing the air filter doesn’t work to fix uneven cooling, consider insulating your ductwork. If your ducts are already insulated, opt for a repair.

Track down and repair areas where ducts are leaking. Insulate those areas so that the home maintains the proper temperature.

Ductwork insulation is a common job for HVAC professionals. Expert contractors can also find a leak in your ductwork for you if you suspect one.

In some cases, this solution can be invasive. It still might be worth it to insulate your ductwork instead of purchasing new HVAC equipment.

Reduce Heat Sources

When the upstairs is hot and the downstairs is cold, it’s because the second floor is naturally warmer than the first. However, a huge difference is something to worry about.

Don’t create more heat upstairs to add to this issue. When you aren’t using the space, make sure to turn off lights and limit the use of heat-generating appliances, such as hair dryers.

Make sure window shades are closed to keep the sun from coming in and adding more heat to the mix.

Use Fans

One of the best two-story house air conditioning tips is to use fans to circulate air. Fans are beneficial in maintaining a constant temperature throughout the home.

Try turning on the fan setting on your thermostat to create airflow through the house. When in a room, use ceiling fans as well.

HVAC Replacement

Sometimes AC maintenance isn’t enough to fix a problem and you have to splurge for a full HVAC replacement.

If your current system cannot provide consistent air temperature throughout the building, it might be old or the wrong size for your home. Consult with a professional about a replacement before making a large decision.

Contractors might be able to spot a problem with your system that you weren’t seeing and save you a lot of money.

Hot Upstairs and Cold Downstairs: The Solution

When it’s hot upstairs and cold downstairs, you might have to make a simple repair or opt for a complete HVAC replacement. Change your air filter, insulate ductwork, and use fans before making a big decision.

No matter the problem, hire professionals who can help. Contact us today so we can make your home more comfortable.