Air Conditioner Not Cooling Upstairs? Here Is What You Need to Do

During the hottest summer days, the air conditioner stays on most of the time. While the downstairs rooms might be cool and comfortable, the upstairs room may not be so welcoming. It's an issue many homeowners experience and can lead to poor sleep quality and cause all sorts of inconveniences.

Fortunately, avoiding the upstairs rooms all summer long is not the only solution. Here are a few efficient tips on how to cool off that area too.

Why does this happen?

Before figuring out how to solve the issue of the upstairs not getting cool, it's essential to understand why it happens in the first place. 

One common issue homeowners face is an old HVAC system that may need to be replaced. If it has been 10-15 years since the system was installed, the unit is probably not working as efficiently as it could. Other reasons for an insufficiently cooled upstairs could be the use of a single-zone system, faulty ductwork, or old air filters.

Finally, remember that the basic rules of physics state that heat rises and cold air sinks. Plus, when it’s scorching hot, the roof tends to overheat as well.

Here are a few solutions to the problem:

Blocking the sun

In the summertime, closing the blinds in the rooms upstairs can go a long way. Make sure to use blackout drapes if possible and even UV blocking film on the windows. Double pane windows are a great solution too, so perhaps consider them as a future investment.

Insulation and ventilation

Undoubtedly, insulation is crucial when it comes to keeping temperatures at a comfortable level. Consider installing high-quality insulation to the attic or roof, which will help keep cool air inside longer. An attic or roof fan is another excellent solution. It can promote air circulation and provide optimal ventilation.

Checking the vents

The air vents may have adjustment levers that can redirect the airflow to specific rooms. Make sure that the vents upstairs are fully opened while leaving the downstairs vent only partially opened. The setup may even out the temperature on both levels.

Buying another HVAC unit

Sometimes all the insulation in the world and all the tinkering of the vents doesn’t help. Your home might be too big for the AC unit that’s currently cooling it down. One option is to replace the existing unit with a brand-new, more powerful option. The second option is to get a portable AC unit that will come in handy when the days (and nights) are unbearably hot.

Staying cool and fresh with the efficient HVAC system

There’s a chance you might need to call a professional HVAC service to take a look at the AC and see what the issue is first. 

Perhaps changing the air filters and fixing a leak in the ductwork will do the trick. However, the first step should always be to insulate and close the blinds. The last step should be to get a new AC unit.

When you need heating or refrigeration service, maintenance or repair, call us at Affordable Comfort A/C and Heating 602-574-1205.