Cooling Tips for Upstairs Rooms

Keeping the upstairs rooms of your two-story home cool in summer can pose a challenge. Fortunately, Woodbridge, VA, summers are not outrageously hot. Nevertheless, if your AC is not generating enough cool air to keep the second floor comfortable, there are a few things you can do to remedy the situation:

Install a Window Air Conditioner

Depending on the size of your second story and the rooms you regularly use, one or two window units might cool things off, especially if you add a few fans. The window units can be placed in rooms that get the most use, and together with the cool air from your central air conditioner, it might be enough to correct the problem.

Have Your Ductwork Checked for Leaks

According to ENERGY STAR, up to 30 percent of cooled air in the average home escapes through ductwork leaks. That 30 percent may be what’s needed to keep your upstairs rooms cool. Schedule a ductwork inspection with your local HVAC contractor, and if leaks are present, have them sealed. The problem might then be solved.

Add a Ductless Mini Split System

Ductless mini splits consist of an outdoor unit and up to five indoor units. Each indoor unit has its own thermostat and controls the temperature in a room or zone. As with window air conditioners, a few indoor mini splits might provide sufficient upstairs cooling power when combined with your existing forced air cooling system.

Explore AC Replacement Options

Central air conditioners can last 15-20 years with regular maintenance. However, AC systems in this age range are prone to unexpected breakdowns, expensive repairs and overall cooling inefficiency. A new system with more cooling power may be the solution. To explore AC replacement options for your Woodbridge, VA, home, call Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning at (703) 491-2771 to schedule a no-cost residential cooling system assessment.