Although we rarely get calls specifically asking us to fix hot and cold spots in their home, it’s something we often hear about from homeowners while we’re on a repair job or providing an estimate. In fact, it’s a common complaint. Many people try to make-do with stubborn hot and cold spots by simply avoiding those areas of their homes or adding or removing clothing layers to adjust.
However, your HVAC system should be able to sufficiently heat or cool all the areas of your home–including those bothersome spots that seem unreachable. Let’s go over 5 common causes of hot and cold spots throughout your home.
1. Have the Size of Your HVAC System Evaluated
Was your HVAC in Mt. Lebanon installed by another company? In addition to hot and cold spots, have you noticed other issues that indicate an improperly sized HVAC system such as short cycling and unusually high energy bills?
Hot and cold spots throughout the rooms of your home could mean that your HVAC system wasn’t properly sized for your home’s square footage. At Boehmer Heating & Cooling, we have over 90 years of experience in installing HVAC systems. If your system was installed by another company, we’re happy to check its sizing for you.
2. Check Vents & Registers
Contrary to popular belief, closing vents and registers isn’t effective at redirecting conditioned air throughout your home. It actually has the opposite effect and can disrupt the balanced airflow throughout your home, leading to uneven heating or cooling. Closing vents in certain rooms can also result in your HVAC system’s inability to properly dehumidify the air, making certain rooms seem stuffier than others.
3. Seal Leaky Windows & Doors
The conditioned air that your HVAC system generates can be easily lost via leaks in the seals of your home’s doors and windows. Check how well your windows and doors are sealed by making a visual inspection of worn or damaged weatherstripping and caulking and replace it where necessary. You can also contact us about a home energy audit.
4. Turn the Thermostat Fan Setting to On
When the fan is set to “On,” it continuously circulates air throughout your home, even when the HVAC system is not running. This helps to distribute air more evenly, reducing hot and cold spots.
5. Consider a Ductless Heat Pump
If you’ll need to replace your HVAC system soon, consider switching from a forced-air system to a ductless heat pump system (also called ductless mini splits). These systems eliminate the need for problematic ductwork which serves as the delivery system for cooled and heated air.
Instead, we’ll mount air handlers on the walls of your home. You can choose which rooms and zones receive an air handler. By blowing conditioned air directly from each mini split, you’ll quickly eliminate those pesky hot and cold spots while enjoying a host of other benefits such as reduced utility costs and greater home comfort.
Call the friendly staff at Boehmer Heating & Cooling for exceptional customer service! Schedule HVAC services in Mt. Lebanon, PA with our team today.