Inefficient cooling can make summer feel even hotter. As the demands placed on your AC increase, you may notice that different areas of your home cool off more than others. Many reasons contribute to uneven home cooling performance. In this blog, we are going to discuss what causes inconsistent cooling, how to diagnose it, and will highlight tips for maintaining cooling efficiency.
Blocked or Dirty Filters
Dirty filters are among the biggest impairments to your cooling efficiency. Dirty, poorly maintained air filters can limit airflow and lessen the amount of cool air that is delivered throughout the different parts of your home. Fortunately, a jammed air filter is also one of the easiest problems to sort out. It is recommended to regularly check your system for dirty filters and clean or replace them once a month or depending on manufacturer recommendations.
Incorrectly Sized Equipment
Incorrectly sized equipment will result in uneven cooling due to inaccurate readings. If the cooling equipment is too small for your area, it will not have the cooling capacity to maintain a comfortable temperature. If the equipment is too large, the incorrect readings will cause a short cycle. This inefficient cycling puts undue stress on your cooling system. An HVAC professional will help you calculate the exact equipment load capacity needed for your home.
Adjusting the fan from “Auto” to “Always ON”
Many homeowners keep their AC in auto mode, and it will run only if there’s a sudden decline in temperature. Keeping your thermostat set to “On” helps circulate the air in your house even when not actively cooling. Enhanced air circulation helps in consistently cooling a large area of space. Another benefit of less frequent cycling on and off is a reduction of stress on the blower fan motor.
Check Air Ducts For Leakages
Ventilation systems need to stay airtight to work properly. Problems related to uneven cooling & airflow are usually caused by leaks in your ductwork. Loose or leaky ductwork causes your HVAC system to strain by allowing the cold air to escape before reaching its destination. The reasons could be broken seals, detached ductwork, poor support, and lack of mechanical fastening, amongst other causes. A professional HVAC technician will have the experience and equipment to inspect the ductwork and identify the underlying problem.
Uneven cooling can lead to discomfort, higher utility bills, and other air conditioning problems. If you are dealing with uneven cooling, we recommend calling a technician for professional service and repair.