Learning About Commercial Air Conditioning Units

What Causes Hot And Cold Spots In Your Home?

6 July 2016

Floyd Carroll

Imagine yourself in the dead of winter. It is cold outside and as you rise out of bed to start your day, your bedroom feels like an ice box. But the temperature in the bathroom makes you sweat. What you are experiencing is referred to as hot and cold spots.

There are a variety of reasons why your home may be heated (or air conditioned) unevenly. To avoid frozen toes in the kitchen and sweaty palms in the living room, you can troubleshoot what is causing hot and cold spots in your home.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat's job is to tell the HVAC system the maximum and minimum temperature to allow in its general vicinity. If it has malfunctioned, then the rest of the system will not work properly. Check the batteries, the buttons, and the temperature gauges to make sure they are all working. If not, replace the batteries or the entire thermostat. If you're not already using a digital thermostat, an upgrade to one is recommended.

Inspect the Filter

The purpose of your HVAC's filter is not only to trap dust particles, but also to distribute air evenly throughout your home. If your air filter is three shades of gray, or you notice yourself sneezing more frequently, it may be time to change it. As a general rule, check your filter every three months. When clogged and unkempt, they can be behind hot and cold spots.

Look For a Leak

It's possible that the air ducts in your home have sprung a leak. A slow leak can cause major problems and is usually the culprit when it comes to uneven temperatures.

Check the weather stripping on your doors, especially ones that lead outside. If the stripping looks damaged, replace it. Also, inspect the windows. If you notice cracks around the edge or in the glass, replacement is in order.

Sometimes the vents are the problem. Be sure to check and make sure that they are open in rooms where the temperature is off.

It May Be Another Issue

If you have checked all of these things and still have hot and cold spots, then there may be a problem with the entire HVAC system. At this point, it's time to call a professional.

The best strategy for preventing dueling room temperatures is to keep up with regular HVAC maintenance. Prompt maintenance can help keep your unit running smoothly and save you a bit of money over time.

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