You don’t need to be a scientist to have heard of “warm air rises and cool air sinks.”

Of course, if you know a bit about thermodynamics, you know that it’s not just an expression. When solar radiation heats the land surface, it also warms the air above the ground. Then millions and millions of tiny air bubbles expand, becoming less dense.

That’s why hot air rises. Meanwhile, the opposite happens when the same air bubbles cool down. They contract and become denser, which is why they “sink.”

Physics aside, if you’re experiencing “hot upstairs and cold downstairs” in your home, there’s a big chance there’s a problem with your HVAC system. That said, let’s talk about what could be causing uneven cooling in a house and how to manage it.

Addressing the “Hot Upstairs Cold Downstairs” Problem

Homes with the “upstairs is hot and downstairs is cold” issue could have an inefficient HVAC system design. If the design isn’t mapped out correctly, it may result in poor air circulation.

Another reason could be leaky ductwork. Remember that your ducts have to distribute cold air throughout your house for efficient home cooling. Just having them cleaned may not be enough.

Improperly installed, leaky, or old air ducts make it harder for your HVAC unit to push cool air to all areas of your home, whether upstairs or downstairs. Other reasons you’re experiencing “AC on hot upstairs cold downstairs” are not having enough insulation in your attic and blocked supply and return vents.

Some Tips That Can Help Solve Uneven Cooling in Your Home

Besides taking steps to address issues that may be causing uneven cooling in your home, there are specific fixes you can try to solve the problem.

The simplest is to change your HVAC air filter. Next is to use fans. If you install ceiling fans upstairs, they can help circulate the air all over the house.

Don’t forget that to keep comfortable indoor temperatures, maintaining a constant temperature is a must. Fans can help with creating perpetual airflow. It would be best if you also considered reducing the use of heat-generating appliances.

For example, you can turn off lights on the second floor when everybody’s downstairs. Window treatments can also help, especially when used strategically. Other tips that can help include switching to a ductless HVAC system, using zone control systems, and upgrading to a new energy-efficient cooling system.

Are You Experiencing HVAC Issues in Haubstadt, IN?

As a homeowner, investing in the best HVAC system is one of the best decisions you can make. However, without proper installation and maintenance, your unit and your home will have problems like uneven cooling, aka “hot upstairs cold downstairs.”

If you need a reliable HVAC contractor in Haubstadt, IN, to check your HVAC system, we can help. Not only do we have trained technicians whose attention to detail is unparalleled, but we also offer full-service energy audits.

To learn more about our services, feel free to browse our site. We also have tons of HVAC tips and advice on our blog that can help.