Many homes seem to be difficult to balance temperature. While one room is the perfect temperature, others seem to be too cold or too hot. There are several reasons that the temperature can be out of balance from room to room so the first step is to find the problem and work on getting it fixed.
Common Causes
Temperature fluctuations are often due to airflow, meaning one room is getting more air and others are lacking. Checking the airflow is something most people can do themselves. Some systems have a damper on the individual supply runs that come from the main source. These are usually small metal handles that open or close the airflow to each room. Adjusting the dampers can increase the airflow to those needing it.
If there are no dampers or they are not accessible, you can also adjust airflow at the registers in each room. This is not quite as effective but still can do the trick. Make sure all vents are open, including the return vents.
When To Call A Service Technician
If balancing the airflow does not help, there may be other problems with your air conditioning and heating system that need to be checked by a professional. Some areas a technician can look at that can affect temperature balance are:
- Fan speed and function
- Check duct work
- Evaluate insulation
- Check for obstructions
Some amount of temperature imbalance can be expected, especially in two-story homes. However, if you have adjusted the airflow and you still have dramatic differences in room temperatures, it is time to have a professional check your system. A system efficiency analysis by your HVAC professional will help you identify the source of the problem.
