We’ve all felt it before – the dread of going upstairs. Not because of the dark, creepy crawlies hiding in the attic or the just the fact of having to actually go up the stairs. No, it’s because once we get to the very top, we have to adjust from the cozy, comfortable temperature downstairs to a much hotter second floor. We’re often left wondering why this happens – especially with the air conditioning on — and how we can fix it. Turns out, there are a couple different answers.
In the simplest of terms, heat rises. It’s an age-old saying, and it’s true. Colder air tends to be denser than warmer air, and that means it sinks and pushes the hotter air up.
A hotter upstairs can also be a lack of proper air ventilation. Furniture, like beds or dressers, may be blocking air ducts that allow air to flow freely throughout the upstairs.
The roof is also more likely to absorb and trap heat from direct sunlight, making the surface area of the second floor, or the upstairs, typically hotter than the one below it. Installing more insulation between the roof and the living quarters will separate some of this heat.
Finally, some older homes may have only a single air conditioning unit for both floors. Having a two-zone or split AC system makes it easier to control and monitor the temperature of both floors individually. It’s a good idea to contact a reputable AC company to check your air conditioning system. Having a solid and properly designed HVAC system will distribute comfort evenly throughout a two-story home.
If you need help with hot or cold spots in your home, give Champion Home Services a call today. We offer an AC evaluation of your home’s performance for just $49.
