I have a 1250 sq ft two story house, the upstairs is not cooling down like the downstairs. It's 82f outside with 60% humidity, tstat set to 73 and my unit runs
21 mins and off 10 min. Wondering if my cycle time is ok and how can I get the upstairs cooler, it stays around 78.Thanks LW1717
Have you always had a difference? Sounds like a circulation problem. First, check that the filters are clean so you are getting full air flow.
Next, check the dampers in each room. You may want to close down the ones on the lower level to get more air pushed upstairs. You may want to consider better attic ventilation to get the heat out so it does not radiate into the house.
You also want to check that air is getting back down to the AC so it can be cooled. If return vents got blocked that adds to the problem.
+1
It's a common problem. A difference of 3 degrees is common. Not having sufficient returns upstairs is common. Adding them can help, but often that isn't possible.
Check the ducting that can be seen to make sure it's intact, ie that a taped joint hasn't fallen apart. Additional attic insulation could help and reduce heating bills too. Finally, installing a mini-split AC upstairs is a possible solution.
Hot air rises and the upstairs will always be warmer. If you have poor attic insulation, you'll be fighting a losing battle. Otherwise, close most vents which lead to the downstairs and basement(if applicable). Closing the vents to the other areas of the house will force more cool air upward. I also suggest sealing all duct seams, if it's not already done.
Ensure the vents are not covered upstairs. Clear any furniture and clutter which may be blocking airflow.
Consider using a vent fan, box fan or ceiling fan to draw out the air.
Check your attic temp and if it's much warmer than outdoor ambient, install some soffit vents and an attic fan.
An attic is always going to be much warmer than ambient in summer in full s un, seeing 30 Deg difference isn't unusual. That's what insulation is for. The attic should have adequate ventilation to keep the temperature from go ing to extremes and to prevent moisture. Most building experts today recom mend ridge venting and not using fans.
I am curious about your "most building experts" statement. Do you have a citation which can provide further information? I have enthusiastically endorsed, for many years, the use of ball style, wind powered, turbine attic ventilators.
I am curious why passive ridge venting would be superior to active, wind powered ventilation.
He said fans, not turbine ventilators. Fans are problematic, fail, even start fires. Turbines stop working too. Ridge vents are passive and work.
Thanks Ed. If you re-read my post, I did not write that Trader spoke of turbine ventilators, I simply expressed my appreciation of the devices.
As for the effectiveness of ridge vents, There is little doubt they facilitate ventilation, and, other than their low maintenance characteristics, I am wondering why they would be superior to an active device.
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