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Why Your AC Isn’t Cooling Evenly (and How to Fix It)

young couple sitting on couch, cooling down with a fan

 

Why Your AC Isn’t Cooling Evenly (and How to Fix It) 

Have you ever wondered why some rooms in your home feel uncomfortably hot, while others remain perfectly cool? Here’s the simple answer: uneven air conditioning.  

 

Uneven air conditioning is a common issue homeowners face, especially during the summer. However, it’s more than just being uncomfortable – having uneven air conditioning can also increase your energy bill. 

 

But we have good news, Advance Heating and Cooling specializes in discovering and resolving problems just like these, ensuring every room in your house is cool. 

 

Join us as we look at the most common causes of uneven air conditioning and how our experts at Advance Heating and Cooling can help. 

 

Common Reasons for Uneven Cooling 

Uneven cooling in your home can have multiple contributing factors, each impacting your comfort and utility bill. Let’s identify these issues, discover the solutions, and determine when it’s time to consult an expert:  

 

Overexposure to Sunlight 

Large windows can be aesthetically appealing but can also come with problems. Windows that face the sun absorb more heat during the day. The sun can overpower your AC, causing certain rooms to be warmer than others.  

 

Using blinds or heavy curtains can minimize sunlight. If you want to enjoy the natural light, we can provide a more permanent solution by installing solar films or energy-efficient windows.  

 

Damaged or Aging Ductwork 

Old and poorly maintained ducts can cause leaks or blockages, restricting airflow to certain areas of your home. Inspecting ducts for damage or blockages can improve circulation issues.  

 

Duct tape can be used for minor leaks, however, for larger issues, an inspection and repair of your ducts from our technicians can ensure they are in top condition.  

 

Inadequate AC Size 

Depending on the size of your AC unit, it may not be able to circulate air effectively throughout your home. The result of a small AC unit causes uneven temperatures across multiple rooms.  

 

To determine whether your AC unit is the right size, use an AC BTU Calculator. For an accurate evaluation, consult with our team at Advance Heating and Cooling to see if you are due for an upgrade.  

 

Poorly Placed Thermostats 

If your thermostat is near heat-producing appliances or direct sunlight, it can often misread your home’s actual temperature, causing your AC to shut off at inappropriate times. A good way to mitigate this is to relocate heat-producing appliances away from your thermostat.  

 

Using curtains or blinds where light touches your thermostat can also be helpful, as direct sunlight can mess with the unit’s calibration. 

 

Insufficient Insulation 

Cool air can escape while hot air infiltrates your home due to poor insulation, leading to hotter temperatures where it shouldn’t be. Check your insulation along your windows and doors, along with your attic, if possible. Adding insulation can be a DIY air conditioning project. For complete coverage, our insulation services can accurately fix these issues.  

 

Obstructed Air Vents 

Furniture, curtains, and dust can prevent air vents from properly distributing air. Rearranging the layout of your furniture, replacing curtains with window-length blinds, and removing dust or crumbs can clear obstructions. For optimal airflow, we can adjust the entirety of your ventilation system.  

 

Dirty Air Filters 

Over time, filters can clog with dust, restricting airflow and reducing the efficiency of your air conditioning. Replace your air filters regularly, ideally every 1-3 months. How often you should change your air filters depends on how much air conditioning is used, the size of your house, and what your household conditions are.  

 

Old or Poorly Insulated Windows 

Like regular insulation in your walls, old windows can have cracks that let cool air out and hot air in. Caulk or weather stripping can temporarily relieve smaller cracks in your windows.  

 

Each of these uneven cooling issues can be frustrating when trying to enjoy your home this summer. While some problems are easily fixable on your own, the expertise of Advance Heating and Cooling can provide effective and long-lasting solutions to maintain an energy-efficient home.  

 

Advanced Air Conditioning Solutions and When to Call a Professional 

When minor DIY adjustments to your home only last temporarily, it may be time to look for a more efficient and permanent solution. These interventions often require the expertise of a professional, which is why Advance Heating and Cooling is your best bet to ensure your AC runs effectively throughout each room of your home. 

 

HVAC technician fixing ductwork

                    

Ductwork Repair and Replacement 

Like anything we use, objects in our homes can deteriorate over time. Ducts can be a significant cause of uneven cooling, energy loss, and reduced system efficiency with common problems such as leaks, holes, and poor connections in ductwork. Advance Heating and Cooling provides intricate ductwork inspections, offering repairs or replacements of damaged ducts. Implementing our services allows your AC to perform to the best of its ability, saving you money. 

 

AC Upgrades and Replacements 

An aging or undersized AC unit may struggle to evenly distribute cool air throughout your home. An inadequate system can lead to continual stress, resulting in frequent breakdowns and an increased energy bill. A task that can be hard to manage on your own can be passed into the hands of our professionals.  

 

We can inspect your current AC system and recommend an upgrade or replacement that will properly circulate throughout the dimensions of your home. Upgraded HVAC services provide better cooling, energy, consumption, and cleaner air quality.  

 

Installation of Better Insulation 

To maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home, proper insulation plays a significant part in keeping things cool. Air that seeps through cracks can also increase your energy bill due to your AC having to overcompensate. Advance Heating and Cooling can assess your current insulation and make installations where necessary.  

 

Zoning Systems 

Large floor plans and multi-level homes may need proper zoning systems to manage temperature changes in each area. Zoning systems allow you to individually control each part of your house to ensure comfort on each floor or room. Installing advanced zoning systems is not a task that can be done as a DIY project – unless you’re a pro! Contact the experts for specialized projects like this. 

 

These advanced solutions provided by Advance Heating and Cooling address the root causes of uneven temperatures, saving you from a costly energy bill and heat! 

 

Maintenance Advice for Cooling Your Home 

Having a comfortable home may not need professional intervention right away. Minor issues can be tackled with basic knowledge and regular checks. Here are some practical tips for air conditioning that will help these household issues run smoother, and when to call our professionals

 

Checking and Replacing Air Filters 

An easy yet significant task that can tackle your air conditioning issues is checking and replacing your air filters. As we mentioned earlier, dirty (or clogged) filters prevent airflow and can lead to uneven cooling.   

  1. Locate your air filter slots 

  2. Remove old filters and check for an accumulation of dirt and debris.  

  3. If the filters look grey, they may be clogged. This is when they need replacing.  

Adjusting Thermostat Settings 

The consistency of the temperature across all rooms of your house heavily relies on proper thermostat settings. Consistently adjusting your thermostat settings to accommodate the room it's in can help save energy and keep comfort levels balanced. 

 

Ensuring Vents are Unobstructed 

The positioning of your furniture, or long drapes can cover vents can prevent air from circulating, leading to hot and cold zones in your home. For unobstructed vents, adjust your furniture, and consider window-length blinds to keep your vents clear. Make sure both supply and return air vents are clear of any dust, allowing for consistent airflow in each room.  

 

While these DIY air conditioning tips can help with smaller issues, there’s no substitute when it comes to a permanent and solid solution. Regular servicing by Advance Heating and Cooling can fix problems that you are unable to solve yourself, while also preventing further issues down the line. Both of which can, ironically, save you time and money in the long-run. 

 

Addressing uneven cooling in your home and the actions required can prevent temperature spikes and a costly energy bill. If you've tried simpler fixes such as using curtains to block out sunlight or taping your ducts but still notice problems, it might be time to consult with professionals.  

 

Contact us at Advance Heating and Cooling for a proper inspection of your home and see what services we can provide to ensure maximum daily comfort.  

 

 

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