One of the most common signs that there is something wrong with your heating & cooling system is uneven heating & cooling throughout your home. So if you are finding that some rooms do not seem to heat up as quickly or remain completely cool, it is time to get your HVAC system checked out.
There are a lot of different potential causes for an unbalanced HVAC system — one that doesn’t heat or cool the whole space evenly — so you will need a professional heating & air conditioning expert to help diagnose the problem. If this is a problem you have been noticing, it is a great thing to bring up during your yearly service check, as the issues that can cause an unbalanced HVAC system will create additional problems for you down the line if they are not addressed.
What Causes an Unbalanced HVAC System?
So what are some of the causes of an unbalanced HVAC system? In some cases, the problem is with the layout of the space and the duct system itself. Ducts that are very long or not properly insulated will cause air to lose or gain heat as it flows through them, counteracting the effects of your HVAC system. Similarly, badly placed vents can create an unbalanced HVAC system by misdirecting airflow or not providing enough points of exit. This is something to look out for when you are remodeling or building additions to your home. You want to make sure the new arrangement will provide enough airflow and fit with your existing HVAC infrastructure in order to avoid an unbalanced HVAC system.
Other common issues that are easier to fix include open windows, leaky or kinked ducts, and dirty air filters. Some of these you can address yourself. In fact, closed or blocked vents are a common culprit, and simply opening or clearing these vents might solve your unbalanced HVAC system. Some issues are more complicated though.
Do I Have The Right Size AC?
One of the more problematic causes of an unbalanced HVAC system is an air conditioner that is too big or too small for your home. If your air conditioner is too small, it will not cool the entire space in your home and can interrupt airflow through your HVAC system. An oversized air conditioner on the other hand, will cool the air very quickly, causing it to shut off before completing a normal cooling cycle. This is a problem because it leaves uncooled areas and some areas that are too cool. The wrong size air conditioner is not just a problem because it creates an unbalanced HVAC system though. The wrong size AC can also cause components to wear down more quickly, and increase your energy bill, so this can be a pretty big issue for a home HVAC system.
How Can I Balance My HVAC System?
There are two main approaches to dealing with an unbalanced HVAC system. You can use fans, windows, and other tools to redirect airflow and achieve a more balanced heating and cooling effect. Or, if the problem is more serious, your heating & air conditioning service can make adjustments and repairs as needed. In St. Louis, call the experts at Galmiche & Sons today to learn more and schedule a maintenance appointment to have your HVAC system checked.
