You expect your heating system to warm your home efficiently during the coolest months of the year. Sometimes, however, you might notice it feels warmer in some parts of the house and less comfortable in other rooms. Here’s why imbalanced heating happens, and how you and an HVAC contractor can both take steps to resolve the problem.

The Causes of Uneven Heating

A small temperature imbalance here and there isn’t a worry. But if you notice that one room feels comfortable and the other feels downright cool by comparison, it’s crucial to figure out why. Usually, the reasons are straightforward. It could be that you didn’t replace the filter before you turned the furnace on for the season.

Air leaks are another common culprit. A clogged filter could prevent sufficient airflow and can impact both your comfort and indoor air quality. Check the vents in affected areas, too. Often, they’re inadvertently blocked by rugs or furnishings.

HVAC contractors generally advise against covering vents, as they force the unit to work harder than necessary to warm the home and may lead to unexpected repairs if it overheats. If you recently installed a home addition, that could also be to blame; the existing furnace may not be large enough to accommodate the new square footage of the home.

How to Avoid Temperature Imbalances

Address any obvious concerns first, such as blocked or dirty vents, clogged filters, or aging furnaces that you may need to replace. Prioritize annual inspections with your HVAC contractor; it’s often during a general heating and cooling checkup that small problems are discovered. Your technician can repair them before they grow into larger issues that affect your comfort more significantly in the winter.

Because energy loss is often related to problems in the ductwork, your technician may choose to investigate the structure for signs of damage. Even minimal cracks in the ducts can cause small leaks that impact your comfort in some parts of the house.

Finally, check the windows in the affected rooms. Small gaps could easily allow warm air to escape and leave the room drafty and uncomfortable. Sealing them with weatherstripping or caulking is an easy way to lock in heat.

Are you concerned about temperature imbalances that leave your home feeling cool even when the heat is on? Turn to the team at Philip Perkins Heating & Air Conditioning in Middletown, OH. Proudly serving the community since 1987, the family-owned and -operated company offers a variety of services, including duct repairs, heating unit replacements, and general maintenance. Visit the HVAC contractors online for information or call (513) 423-7052 to schedule an appointment.