10 Ways to Eliminate Hot and Cold Spots
Have you ever wondered how one area of your home can feel cool and refreshing, while another feels like you’re in a sauna? Have you ever felt like walking from room to room in your home was more like time travel through 4 seasons? You’re not alone. Unfortunately, hot and cold spots are as common as they are frustrating. Fortunately, there are many ways to combat them that are easy and affordable.
1. Check Your Vents & Registers
Contrary to popular belief, you should never close or block off vents to redirect airflow. Closing vents in an attempt to solve small problems may cause much more serious and costly issues. Make sure all of your vents and registers are open and are not being blocked by curtains, rugs or furniture.
2. Check Your Filter
Some airflow problems can be improved by just simply changing your air filter. A dirty or clogged filter will restrict the amount of air that passes through it, definitely impacting the overall comfort of your home and increasing the likelihood of hot and cold spots.
3. Adjust Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. Changing a fan’s directional settings can make a huge difference in air circulation. In warmer months, your ceiling fan(s) should be run in a counterclockwise motion at a higher speed to create cool downward airflow. In cooler months, reverse the blade direction to clockwise at a lower speed. This will help redistribute warm air, that naturally rises back into the room.
4. Turn Thermostat Fan Setting to On
In most cases the default fan setting on your thermostat is set to auto. In auto mode, the fan will only run when the heating or cooling system is cycling. Changing the fan setting to “on”, will ensure that the fan is constantly cycling. This allows for better air quality and more evenly distributed air. A bit of caution, turning the fan to the on position will also utilize more energy – especially on lower efficiency systems.
5. Seal Your Windows & Doors
Cracks and gaps in window and door frames are not only problematic when it comes to energy savings, but can really effect the overall comfort of your home. With proper sealing techniques you can eliminate unwanted drafts, leaks as well as hot and cold spots.
6. Thermostat Operation
First and foremost, make sure your thermostat(s) are in a good location and away from any and all heat sources that could result in an improper reading. If you don’t have a programmable model, you could consider upgrading for more advanced comfort control.
7. Have the Size of Your HVAC System Evaluated
An HVAC system that is improperly sized can make a huge difference in comfort levels. A unit that is too small will work harder than it needs to, creating excess wear and tear. Units that are too large will over condition the space, making it hard to control consistent temperatures.
8. Leaky Ducts
Proper insulation of your ductwork is key to maintaining balanced temperatures. Think of your ductwork as a straw. When a straw is cracked or broken, it’s nearly impossible to drink from it and get a steady flow of liquid. Same goes for your ductwork, when there are leaks, air is not making its way through the system and into your home. If you suspect that there is a weak flow of air being distributed from your vents, give a professional a call for further evaluation.
9. Install a Zoning System
Temperature zoning allows you to independently control the temperature of different “zones” inside your home or office. If you don’t already have a zoned system, it might be worth looking into.
10. Consider Ductless
Ductless split systems are the perfect addition to any home or office. They can be installed in a single room or throughout an entire home to provide supplemental heating and/or cooling where needed.
If you’re tired of annoying inconsistent temperatures and hot and cold spots, it’s time to take back your comfort. Call JD Indoor Comfort or schedule an in-home consultation now.