Climate control is a unique challenge in a two-story home and a common issue for homeowners. Heat will often accumulate in certain areas of the house, so using the heating system the same way you would in a single-story home will be ineffective. Use the guide below to ensure heat evenly distributes throughout your home.

A Guide to Heating a Multilevel Home

Challenges to Expect

Heat rises, so the second floor of a home often gets warmer than the first, making the top level uncomfortably warm and the first too cold. Additionally, your thermostat may not accurately reflect the temperature on both floors. For example, a thermostat on the second floor will read a warmer temperature due to the rising heat, turning the system off before the first floor has reached a warm enough temperature.

How to Compensate

A zoned heating installation can help you maximize comfort and efficiency. This system separates the home into zones, which are each controlled by their own thermostat. Make each level of the house its own zone so that you can set the temperature for the first floor higher than for the second level to keep both comfortable. If you’d like to meet the temperature preferences of each family member, you can even create individual zones for each bedroom and the main living areas. Though this upgrade may be costly, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable home and improve energy-efficiency since you won’t be paying to heat unoccupied spaces.

However, if you don’t want to upgrade your system, there are other options. Improve your insulation to boost your efficiency and prevent uneven temperature distribution. For maximum effect, focus on the attic, first-floor exterior walls, and foundation. Set the fan on your heating to “On” rather than “Auto” to ensure the fan always circulates air. This keeps the air moving, preventing all the heat from moving upwards.

When you need help heating your home evenly, contact Ronnie Ritchie Service. They have been August County, VA’s top plumbing and HVAC expert since 1955. They are fully licensed, bonded, and insured and are available 24 hours a day for emergency heating and cooling services. Learn more about their services on their website or call (540) 942-1415 to request a free estimate.