Ways to fix uneven temperature in a multiple storey home

Keeping an even temperature in a single storey home is easier compared to keeping an even temperature in a double or a multiple storey home. As you go upstairs, the temperature is different and as you come downstairs, it's an entirely different temperature here. And did you know that with a central heating/cooling system, there's usually a temperature difference of 10 degrees between the storeys? So as you, being in the lower storey set the Thermostat at a higher setting, somebody with his room in the upper storey will complain about the indoor too hot and would want to lower the temperature setting. This becomes especially problematic when family members are living in lower as well as upper storeys.
So, is there a way to smartly tackle this problem and make everyone happy? Let's find out:



Solution#1 

Zoned heating/cooling 

From the conventional central air conditioning and heating, we are now entering into the realm of zoned heating/cooling. So one of the best ways to tackle this temperature difference problem is to install a zoning system. There are two possibilities in this regard:

- Split Air Conditioner:

One possibility is to install separate split units in every room so that everyone can enjoy the temperature of his own choice. There are several brands that have now launched models supporting up to 5 indoor units with one single outdoor unit.

- Electronic dampers | Zoning system:

The other possibility is to go for electronically controlled dampers. These dampers can be opened or closed in order to control the flow of air to every room. With the latest Smart Thermostat model of Honeywell, up to 12 zones can be controlled with different heating/cooling settings.

Solution#2 

Solution#2 involves inspecting the causes of the temperature difference that are creating discomfort. Usually, there are some other underlying problems that create a significant temperature difference and this leads to creating discomfort for family members.
So here are certain problems that you should look for:

- More than many times, the temperature difference in multiple storeys becomes significant as a result of blocked supply or return vents. So if you're having a rug over a return or supply vent in your study room in the upper storey, you will experience the temperature difference for sure. This applies to even the single storey homes but the multiple storey homes should especially not create any hindrance in the way of supply or return ducts.

- Leaking air ducts is another reason why one storey is colder/hotter than the other. If the ductwork leading to the upper storey has leaks in it which is causing a loss of cool air, it is certain that the air that will reach that storey will not remain as cool as is the air reaching the lower storey.

- Insufficient attic insulation may as well lead to a significant temperature difference. The heat that falls on the roof reaches the first storey from the top. With a poor insulation, that storey will receive more heat in summer and more cold in winters resulting in a temperature difference.

- If you do not have a humidity problem, then consider keeping your AC fan on ''ON'' setting so that the fan keeps running and circulating the air in the indoor. This will add to creating an even temperature. But hey! expect some rise in energy bills with this.

Do you face similar issues? Have you tried something that has worked wonderfully for you? We'd love to hear from you your HVAC hacks and DIY solutions.

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