HVAC Efficiency – Cooling Multiple Story Home Tips
Have you forgotten how hot the second story of your house got last summer? Ideally, the HVAC system in a two-story home will balance heating and cooling during the summer months.
However, what you experience may prove otherwise. The time to do something about HVAC Efficiency is now, before the heat of summer, so let’s look at some solutions.
First, remember that hot air rises. We could tell you why and get all “science teachers” upset with you, but hot air is lighter than cold air and rises. Cold air is heavier and sinks. Makes sense, right? With that in mind, look at some possible HVAC Efficiency solutions.
Make sure the HVAC system is the right size for your house. An HVAC professional can help you with this. The formula to determine this takes into consideration how many rooms, windows, doors, and of course, how many stories. Since cool air is heavier, the fan must be strong enough to push it upstairs.
Make sure your house is properly insulated and sealed. The attic will be the hottest area under the roof, so make sure you have adequate ventilation; trapping air in the attic creates an oven. Make sure you have proper insulation or it will make your air conditioner work harder.Do you have ductwork in the attic? Make sure they are insulated properly. Make sure windows and doors are properly weatherized.
Make sure your HVAC system is working properly with preventative maintenance by changing filters and cleaning ducts. If you have ducts that are not sealed, your system is blowing cold air into the wrong areas.
If you have a basement, close the basement damper(s) halfway. This will push more cold air upstairs. It will find its way back downstairs—remember, it’s heavy. Consider closing vents on the main level by half to push cold air upstairs—remember . . . cold air is heavy.
Did you know your ceiling fan turns in both directions? This design assists with the change between heating and cooling. How does it work? When the fan turns counterclockwise it pulls cool air up for comfort. When the fan turns clockwise it is pushing warm air down for comfort. And now you know!
Consider changing the AC fan setting to “on” instead of “auto.” The on-setting keeps the fan blowing constantly, mixing the air evenly throughout the house. The energy required to keep the fan running is lower because the AC is required to cycle on less frequently.
Does your HVAC system need to be replaced? Systems have a lifecycle; they wear out, become inefficient, or just stop working. With good maintenance, an HVAC system will last about 20 years. Sometimes, replacing a system after 10 years is a good return on investment, because the new system is much more efficient.
Have a question about HVAC Efficiency?
With our four decades of experience as a seasoned HVAC Efficiency expert, AirPro Houston provides Indoor air quality with the skill and expertise to assist you with your air duct cleaning.
We have financing options available with great options with up to 72-month terms with approved credit. Call us today at 281-880-8805 and let us partner with you for all of your HVAC repair and HVAC Efficiency needs.
