Too Hot Upstairs? You Could Have an Airflow Problem

If you’re a central Maine homeowner who uses a forced-air heating system (a furnace with vents rather than a boiler with radiators or baseboards), you have probably experienced temperature fluctuations within your home – an overwarm upstairs, for example.

While there could be several causes of this problem, a leading cause of inconsistent household temperatures is poor airflow.

Proper airflow is a critical and often overlooked factor in the HVAC heating system equation; without it, you could experience such issues as hot and cold spots, pressure imbalances (drafts, doors slamming by themselves, etc.), and air temperature problems (cool air from your furnace, warm air from your A/C, etc.).

7 Common Airflow Problems for Your Home

The question is, what causes airflow problems, and how do you fix them? Here are some common culprits and what to do about them.

• Blocked or closed vents – Furniture, curtains, and other obstructions could be reducing airflow in your home; take a look around and clear or open vents that are needed to keep the air moving.
• A clogged air filter – When is the last time you changed your furnace filter? If you can’t remember, it’s been too long. Check your filter at least once a month during the peak heating season, replacing it as needed.
• A blocked condenser unit – The condenser unit of your HVAC system is usually located outside, which means it is subject to becoming blocked by leaves and other debris. These obstructions can cause your system to overheat as it struggles to access air. Power down your condenser and remove the debris.
• Duct issues – In a forced air system, a fan pushes air heated by your furnace through a series of ducts and into vents in each room. The problem is that this duct system can develop cracks or joint issues that will allow air to leak out, which reduces the airflow. If you suspect a leak or build-up, contact us so we can inspect your system.
• Thermostat troubles – A faulty thermostat can also contribute to poor airflow. Try replacing the batteries in your thermostat and see if airflow improves. If not, contact us to install a new thermostat.
• Improper size matching – When it comes to furnaces, bigger isn’t necessarily better. If the capacity of your furnace is too large for the heating load of your home, it will cycle (turn on and off) too frequently, which can lead to poor air circulation. When you have a new heating system installed, make sure your contractor performs Heat Loss Calculations so you know exactly what size your units need to be. To learn more about this, contact us.
• Poorly maintained or expiring equipment – Good old fashioned malfunctioning equipment can also be at the heart of an airflow problem, so be sure to have your heating equipment serviced by a professional every year. If your system is more than 12 to 15 years old, it’s time to start considering the costs and benefits of a heating system upgrade – contact us to learn more.

Experiencing airflow problems in your central Maine home? Contact the pros at Murray-Heutz today for heating service in Androscoggin County. If you need a heating system replacement, we can help you there, too – call us for a FREE, comprehensive estimate on a high-efficiency propane– or heating oil-fired furnace that’s the perfect match for your home, lifestyle, and budget.