Ever walk through your home and instantly feel a temperature change from one room to another? This could be due to any number of reasons, ranging from minor issues to major problems. If you’re looking to identify why this occurs, the following guide will help narrow down the problem and find solutions before contacting an HVAC contractor.

Why do individual rooms vary in temperature?

Missized Units

First, you need to ensure that your HVAC contractor has installed the correct size unit for your home. If the unit is too large or too small, there will not be proper airflow throughout the house. Improper HVAC sizing can affect the heating and cooling balance and cause significant damage later on.

Faulty Ducts

Next, you need to ensure that air is being filtered correctly, as this can affect temperature as well. Your air is usually transferred through ducts, passages in the walls that filter the air from the unit and out of the vents. Often, ducts can separate from one another or begin to crack. Ducts can lose up to 30% of airflow from leaks, no matter how big or small. There shouldn’t be any air passing where it’s not supposed to, and if the ducts are correctly sealed, this won’t occur. If you can visually detect where the duct is loose, it’s best to call an HVAC contractor to resolve the issue.

Poor Insulation

Finally, having quality insulation will help maintain the preferred temperature of your home. Older homes can have patchy insulation or none at all, and new homes often have foam insulation that is preferable over the classic, pink material. Foam insulation can fill in cracks and holes and prevent air from escaping even through the smallest crack. Installing proper insulation will regulate room temperature, thus conserving energy.

How Do I Prevent These Issues?

Patch Leaks

If you notice leaky ductwork, a simple solution would be to locate the source and seal it with duct tape. Often, this is a temporary fix that will prevent a rise in energy costs until an HVAC contractor can be contacted. Partnering with a professional is recommended because they’ll know how to find the leak and have the tools to fix it.

Upgrade Your Unit

You can also add a second HVAC system to your home or get rid of the old one. This option is pricey, but it gives you more control over the specific temperature of each room. Room zoning also allows you to control the temperature of each room by installing thermostats on each floor. The thermostats communicate with dampers that are installed inside the ductwork. The dampers are programmed to open and close based on preset temperatures.

Check Insulation

As stated before, installing quality insulation can make a world of difference in the temperature of your home saving you money on energy expenses. The US Department of Energy provides helpful tips on how to install insulation, but if you have any hesitation, contact an HVAC contractor for assistance.

With over 50 years of experience, Empire Heating & Air Conditioning is a leading business in the HVAC industry. Locally owned and operated, they offer energy-efficient ways of heating and cooling your home. Providing their services throughout Rochester, NY, and its surrounding areas, their customers will receive 100% satisfaction every time. Aside from their excellent HVAC contractors, they also offer plumbing and electrical service needs. For more information on their products and services, visit them online or contact them at 585-325-6786 to schedule an appointment.