There are a variety of factors that impact a heating and cooling system's efficiency, including the size and age of the equipment. Your home's insulation also affects how well the device runs. When a structure isn't properly insulated, you may require more frequent HVAC repairs. If you’re facing issues with your system, here are a few steps to take to decide whether your insulation may be to blame.

3 Ways to Tell If Your Home Is Under-Insulated

1. Measure Insulation Levels

While you don't have easy access to the inside of your walls, insulation is visible in the attic. Recommended insulation varies by the type of material used, but on average, you want 10 to 14 inches of coverage. You can measure this using a ruler or simply eyeball it.

If the material is covering the floor joists, it shouldn't be a problem. However, if it's filled up to the joist or lower, then you may need to add more. 

2. Check Your Utility Bills

When a home is poorly insulated, the heating and cooling system is constantly battling to maintain a comfortable interior temperature. In this case, the equipment has to work harder than normal, often kicking on more frequently and running for longer periods.

Unfortunately, this results in high energy bills and an increased risk of malfunctions that require HVAC repairs. Compare your monthly costs to your bills from the same period last year to determine if they’re unusually high.

3. Evaluate Your Comfort Level

One of the simplest ways to identify an insulation problem is checking for drafts. This is easy to do in the winter because rushes of cold air are more noticeable. Drafts are common when windows and exterior doors aren't properly insulated. If you find a gap letting in a draft, weatherstripping or caulking should help.

If your home seems to be properly insulated but you still feel cold indoors, turn to the professionals at Climatech Mechanical Heating & Air Conditioning Services in New Haven County, CT. For over 25 years, this HVAC contractor has served the heating and cooling needs of homeowners and businesses. Providing HVAC repairs, they’ll help you enjoy a comfortable, climate-controlled home year-round. Learn more about their residential HVAC services online, and request an appointment today at (203) 269-1600.