Author: Jessie Ryan Sy

During summertime in Grants Pass, it’s normal to experience uneven cooling, especially when the summer is extra hot. For local homeowners, this leads to inefficient energy usage and incredible discomfort. Fortunately, there are key steps you can take to resolve this performance issue.

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is a finely tuned machine that ensures cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter. If you’re experiencing uneven cooling in your home, you may need air balancing in your HVAC unit. 

Schedule an air conditioning repair in Grants Pass to improve your AC performance.

1. Blocked or Leaky Air Ducts

Why is my AC not cooling evenly? The problem might not be in your AC at all. Instead, the hidden culprit may be lurking in your ductwork.

Leaky ducts can lose 25% to 40% of the energy that goes through them. When this happens, your AC has to work extra to cool or heat additional air. As a result, you can end up spending significantly more on energy costs. Worse still, your family has to deal with uneven cooling.

Duct leaks can be as small as a pinhole, making them difficult to detect with the naked eye. They often occur over time, although immediate leaks can occur because of a mechanical failure or a rodent. 

Besides leak issues, your HVAC system can develop problems with blocked ducts. Damage, dirt buildup, rodent nests, or closed dampers can all block airflow. Any blockage causes your system to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing the cost of repairs. 

In between HVAC maintenance appointments, there are a few things you can do to check for leaky or blocked ducts. The following are just a few of the most frequent systems to pay attention to.

• Higher Energy Bills: Duct issues make your AC work harder, which causes higher energy bills.
• Whistling Noises: If you notice a whistling or rattling noise, it may be because your duct is blocked.
• Uneven Airflow: Blockages and leaks can reduce the amount of air getting to different vents.
• Visible Dust: When you have a leaky duct, the leaks can pull dust and debris into your ductwork. Eventually, this dust finds its way into your rooms.
• Moldy Smells: If you smell mold, it may be because leaks are letting moisture into your ductwork and causing mold to grow.

If you think that you may have a leaky or blocked duct in your home, schedule air conditioning maintenance and repairs today. During our inspection, we can determine the underlying cause. Thanks to our fully stocked trucks, we can quickly perform ductwork repairs in Grants Pass so that you can enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home.

2. Clogged Air Filters

The main purpose of your air filters is to trap airborne contaminants, such as pollen, dirt, and dust. This helps to protect your air conditioner from dirt, allowing it to function more efficiently. 

Most manufacturers recommend that you change or clean your air filters every one to three months. If you don’t, the air filter will eventually become clogged and restrict airflow.

Over the long run, clogged air filters can increase the likelihood of dirty evaporator coils and a frozen AC. Eventually, you’ll have to pay to fix avoidable repairs.

Luckily, this is a relatively easy problem to repair. Using the manufacturer’s guide for your air conditioner, you simply need to replace or clean the filter. You can also schedule AC maintenance if you want extra support with improving your unit’s airflow.

3. Improperly Sized AC Unit

When it comes to new AC installations and HVAC zoning in Grants Pass, it’s important to calculate an accurate AC size. When the AC is too small for your home’s size, it has to run constantly to achieve the same temperature level. Over time, this constant operation leads to more wear and potential system failures.” 

Similarly, an oversized air conditioner will have more frequent repairs and performance issues. An overly large unit will reach the appropriate temperature too quickly. This causes it to shut off too fast. As soon as the temperature warms up slightly, it turns on again in a process known as short cycling. In addition to causing unnecessary wear, an oversized AC can leave your home feeling clammy because the right temperature is reached before the HVAC unit has a chance to adjust the humidity completely. 

With a Manual J calculation, one of our HVAC technicians will determine the unit size you need. This calculation looks at the surface area of your home, the ceiling height, occupants, exterior doors, and windows. Then, these figures are used to determine the exact number of British Thermal Units (BTUs) your home will need.

Often, older homes need their load calculation redone. Similarly, any remodeling or additions may increase the capacity you need, making it necessary to perform a new calculation.

To solve the uneven cooling of your home, reach out to our team of HVAC experts. We’ll perform your HVAC load calculation and determine whether you need to upgrade your system.

4. Thermostat Placement or Malfunction

Are you wondering, “Why is my AC not cooling evenly?” In some cases, the answer to this question is related to your thermostat. 

Your thermostat sensors are responsible for detecting the temperature of the air in your home. Then, the thermostat triggers the HVAC system to switch on if a temperature adjustment is needed. If any step in this process malfunctions, it can lead to uneven cooling. 

For example, thermostats are sometimes placed near windows or vents. While vents cool the thermostat to a lower temperature than the rest of the room, a sunny window will do the opposite. In either case, the thermostat’s sensor will pick up and relay an inaccurate reading.

There are a few options you can use to fix the problem. The first is to schedule AC repair in Grants Pass. During the repair appointment, one of the technicians from Rogue Valley Heating, Cooling, & Electrical will recalibrate or reposition your thermostat.

Over the long run, a smart thermostat is a more effective solution. Smart and programmable thermostats are known for achieving a higher level of temperature control and energy efficiency. They can learn your temperature preferences, maximizing your home’s energy savings and your personal comfort. In fact, the Department of Energy reports that using a programmable thermostat to change your temperature 7° to 10°F for just eight hours a day will lower your heating and cooling costs by 10% per year.

5. Single-Zone System in a Multi-Level Home

Whether you need help with air balancing in HVAC systems or AC maintenance, Rogue Valley is here to help. Our team will quickly diagnose the underlying reason why your HVAC system is cooling unevenly. In some cases, the issue is related to the actual home.

When you have a large home or a multi-story property, one thermostat may simply be an ineffective option. Drafty windows cause some rooms to be colder. Spaces on the south or southeast side of your house tend to be warmer because of the extra sunshine. With so many different environments and features to consider, it’s impossible to set a single thermostat and get the exact same temperature in every room. 

The answer to this problem is a zoning system. A zone control system uses dampers to block the flow of conditioned air into different rooms. If the room needs to cool down, the damper opens to allow cold air in. Alternatively, the damper can be shut to let a chilly room warm up. 

Zone control systems can be installed so that you can control individual zones in your home using separate thermostats. Besides improving your comfort and energy efficiency, HVAC zoning in Grants Pass can lower your energy bills each month.

We can also install ductless mini-splits if you want to cool separate areas. These are essentially separate heat pumps that can be placed in different zones, such as in your home office or mother-in-law suite. Then, you can adjust each individual unit as needed.

Bonus Tip – Fix Poor Home Insulation 

If you want to improve the cooling in your home, you may want to rethink your home’s insulation. Insulation prevents heat transfer. While insulation helps to keep heat in your home during the winter, it stops heat from entering your rooms during the summer. Because of this, good insulation can greatly improve your home’s temperature consistency.

To see if this is the problem, try checking out the attics, doors, and windows in your home. Attic spaces, especially in older homes, are often not insulated particularly well. As the attic heats up, it causes the rest of your home to warm up as well. 

According to Energy Trust of Oregon, 9 out of 10 homes aren’t insulated properly. Typically, an Oregon home should have the following R-values for the following insulation locations.

• Floors: R-30
• Ceilings: R-49
• Walls: R-15 (Below Grade) and R-21 (Above Grade)

Your windows and doors can be a source of air drafts if they haven’t been sealed properly. Try standing or sitting next to each window and door in your home. If you feel a slight breeze, something isn’t sealed properly. You can try caulking around the door or window to prevent the draft from allowing heat to get inside.

When To Call a Professional HVAC Technician in Grants Pass

Unless you’ve handled air balancing in HVAC units, figuring out how to diagnose and repair AC issues can be challenging. With the help of an experienced HVAC technician, you can get immediate AC repairs in Grants Pass. As a general rule, we recommend calling a professional HVAC technician in the following circumstances.

• Weak Airflow: If the airflow is weaker than normal, you may need professional help. Duct issues or more serious mechanical problems could be responsible. 
• Persistent Hot or Cool Spots: Hot and cold spots in your home are signs that something is wrong with your HVAC system. When in doubt, call in the professionals.
• Leaky or Blocked Ducts: At Rogue Valley, we have specialized tools and equipment for finding pinhole leaks in your ductwork. Once we’ve found those leaks, we can repair them or replace the entire section of ductwork.
• Lack of Improvement: No matter what the problem is, you should reach out for help if the situation doesn’t improve right away. Minor problems tend to escalate over the long run if they aren’t appropriately dealt with. 
• Frequent AC Cycling: While it might not immediately affect your AC performance or energy bills, frequent AC cycling will eventually lead to problems. This type of short cycling causes added wear, leading to unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and premature AC replacements. 
• Unusually High Energy Bills: One hidden sign that you are having an AC problem is your energy bill. Malfunctions force the air conditioner to work harder, which can drive up the amount of energy your home uses each month.
• Ineffective Maintenance: If changing the air filter and performing your routine maintenance didn’t help, it may mean that something serious is wrong with your AC. 

When the summer sun starts to beat down, your family needs a high-functioning AC to stay cool. If you experience any of the previous problems, it’s a sign that you need expert help with diagnosing the underlying malfunction.

Once one of our technicians has come to your home, they can quickly inspect your AC and recommend the best repairs. We can also help with air balancing in HVAC systems, routine AC maintenance, and air conditioner replacements. No matter what is causing the uneven cooling in your home, our experienced HVAC technicians can solve the problem. 

Schedule your AC repairs today to learn more about how we can help.

Schedule Your AC Maintenance and Repairs Today

Before the next heat wave arrives, it’s important to take care of uneven cooling in your home. Through routine AC maintenance and inspections, you can prevent malfunctions and spot minor issues before they spiral out of control. From replacing air filters to clearing blocked ducts, the right maintenance can improve your energy efficiency and prevent uneven cooling in your home. 

Call 541-204-0966 to get a free estimate on your repairs.

For homeowners in Grants Pass and Medford, figuring out how to keep sun-facing rooms cool is a constant challenge. West- and south-facing rooms are especially known for trapping heat in the summer, making them uncomfortably warm and frequently unusable.

If your AC is struggling to cool these rooms, it can also impact your energy costs and your system’s lifespan. By learning how to prevent heat buildup in your sun-facing rooms, you can improve your family’s comfort, maximize your energy savings, and ensure your system’s longevity.

Best Tips for Keeping Your Sun-Facing Rooms Cool in Medford and Grants Pass

From installing a whole-house fan to adding insulation, there are multiple techniques you can use for cooling sun-facing rooms. If you’re struggling to figure out the most energy-efficient cooling for your home, contact our team today for a professional energy audit.

1. Use Thermal Curtains or Reflective Window Film

By installing window treatments for heat, you can decrease the amount of electricity your home uses. For example, cellular shades can lower the amount of solar heat entering your home by 60% during the summer. Even adding curtains with a white backing can lower your energy gains by 33%.

Window films are easy to apply and can also lower your energy costs in the summer. They reduce ultraviolet exposure and solar heat by blocking the rays of sunshine. Unlike curtains, window films don’t block your view because they are available in transparent options. Typically, they contain an adhesive layer, scratch-resistant coating, and polyester film layer.

2. Install Smart or Programmable Thermostats

Another way to improve your energy efficiency and comfort is by getting a smart or programmable thermostat installed. With a smart thermostat, you can install sensors in different rooms so that each room gets the amount of cooling it needs. Smart thermostats are also designed to sense when there is direct sunlight on the temperature sensor, so the reading can be accurate.

Plus, a smart thermostat can tell when occupants are present. This allows it to adjust the temperature setting to a warmer level if no one is in the room. Through smart HVAC upgrades for hot rooms, you can decrease your energy consumption.

3. Add Insulation or Air Sealing to Problem Rooms

For a room to cool off or warm up, heat has to be transferred. If your sun-facing room is constantly warmer than other spaces, it is because excess heat is coming into the room. While window films, shades, and thermal curtains can block this heat, some of it may be entering through your walls as well.

To prevent heat transfer, consider replacing the insulation in your walls. One way to determine the correct insulation is by looking at the R-value. This figure represents how effective insulation is at stopping heat transfer. A higher R-value means the insulation is better at stopping heat from getting into your home.

Based on its climate, Grants Pass and Medford homes should have the following minimum R-values.

• Uninsulated Attic: R60
• Already Insulated Attic: R49 
• Floor: R30
• Uninsulated Walls: R5 to R10 wall sheathing
• Already Insulated Walls: R10 wall sheathing
• Basement or Crawlspace Walls: R19 batt or R15 insulative wall sheathing 

4. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient HVAC

If you’re struggling with how to keep sun-facing rooms cool, we can help. With an energy-efficient HVAC unit, you can achieve a high performance level with reduced energy consumption.

To determine the best sunroom cooling solutions, start by checking out the HVAC unit’s SEER2 rating. The higher the rating, the more efficient it will be at cooling your home. In Oregon, central ACs should have a SEER2 of 13.4. Heat pumps need a SEER2 rating of 14.3.

For help determining the best HVAC system for your home, visit our website today. One of our Rogue Valley HVAC professionals can determine the ideal AC size and efficiency rating for your home’s layout.

5. Use Ceiling or Oscillating Fans Strategically

To prevent heat buildup and keep your room cool, try installing a ceiling fan or buying an oscillating fan. These fans help to circulate air, helping you to feel cooler.

For the best results, you should make sure that your ceiling fan is spinning in a counterclockwise direction during the summertime. This pushes air downward, creating a wind-chill effect. As a result, the ceiling fan will help you feel cooler, even if the room remains warm.

Plus, a ceiling fan can lower your energy costs. By raising your thermostat two degrees and using your ceiling fan, you can reduce your cooling costs by 14%. If you install an ENERGY STAR-certified fan, you can save as much as 60% more than you can with a traditional ceiling fan.

6. Consider a Ductless Mini-Split for Zoning

When a room stays hot even with the AC on, you may want to get a ductless mini-split for that specific room. A ductless mini-split revolves around the same idea as a heat pump. Depending on the season, these heat pump mini-splits can transfer heat indoors or outdoors with the help of refrigerant.

Unlike a heat pump, ductless mini-splits don’t rely on ductwork. Because of this, they are an excellent choice for homes that don’t already have existing ductwork installed.

Ductless mini-splits can be installed in a single zone, allowing you to easily set and change the temperature in a specific space. You can also easily switch them off for spaces, like offices or guest rooms, that aren’t used all the time. If you’re struggling to get a specific room to cool off, there may be an energy-efficient, convenient way to do so.

7. Check Ductwork for Airflow Issues

Around 20% to 30% of conditioned air that moves through a home’s cooling system ends up getting lost in its ductwork. Over time, pinpoint holes, gaps, and tears can develop that allow hot and cold air to escape.

This type of problem isn’t just a comfort issue. Eventually, it can cause costly repairs and replacements for your HVAC system. If your ductwork is losing a lot of cool air, your AC will have to run extra to cool your home. This can lead to added wear and repairs that eat into your family’s budget.

Fortunately, our Rogue Valley HVAC professionals can help you inspect and repair your ductwork. We can seal leaks and replace especially problematic ductwork, so you can enjoy a better level of energy efficiency.

During a maintenance inspection, we can also check for other sources of airflow issues. Dirty air filters, blocked vents, and dirty evaporator coils can all prevent your airflow from reaching and cooling each room.

To fix these issues, start by checking your air filter. Ideally, this filter should be changed every 30 to 90 days, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications. Then, check to make sure your vents aren’t closed or blocked by furniture.

If dirty coils are the problem, call one of our HVAC technicians for help. We can clean your evaporator coils and condenser coils, ensuring your AC is functioning as efficiently as possible.

8. Add Exterior Shade: Awnings, Trees, Solar Screens

Sometimes, the most energy-efficient cooling option is also the most effective. If your sunny room stays hot even with the AC on, it may be time to think outside the box about blocking the sunshine. Instead of adding window films, use trees, awnings, and solar screens to prevent solar heat from getting into your home.

Trees can take time to grow, so you may want to start by using an awning or solar screen while you wait for the tree to grow taller. These alternative options for shade can block the sun from warming the room’s walls and windows, helping you reduce your energy consumption. 

9. Whole-House Fan or Attic Ventilation Options

One of the most effective HVAC upgrades for hot rooms is a whole-house fan. The fan is installed inside your attic. During the coolest part of the day, you simply have to open your windows to let cool air in. Then, the fan pulls this air upward and into the attic.

By pulling cool air into your home, the whole-house fan helps to circulate air and cool your home. Besides reducing stagnant air in your attic, this also has a cooling effect on sun-facing rooms and the rest of your home. As an added benefit, whole-house fans are known for being incredibly energy efficient, so you can enjoy a cooler home at a low cost.

Alternatively, you can use attic ventilation to cool your house. These ventilation systems are typically designed using attic fans and soffit vents under your eaves. The attic fans push hot air out of your attic. When this happens, it naturally creates a negative pressure in your home that pulls cooler air in through the soffit vents. By lowering the attic temperature, you can reduce the AC’s workload, save money on energy costs, and enjoy a more comfortable home.

10. Schedule an HVAC Inspection – System Might Be Undersized

If you are still struggling to figure out how to keep sun-facing rooms cold, it may be time to get the professionals involved. You may have an underlying problem, such as an undersized or faulty AC. During a routine AC inspection, we can check for signs of wear, lubricate moving parts, clean the AC, and report any potential repair problems we happen to find.

Besides making sure your AC is in working order, we’ll also see if you have the right AC size for your home. An undersized air conditioner will struggle to achieve the right temperature. It may run nonstop to try to keep up. In addition to leading to overly hot rooms, this problem can also cause premature breakdowns and repairs.

Once one of our HVAC technicians has calculated the ideal AC size for your home, we can determine which type and manufacturer is the best option for your needs. After we arrive for your installation, it generally takes us just four to eight hours to completely install a new air conditioning unit.

Sun-Facing Room Problems in Grants Pass? You’re Not Alone

Summers in Medford tend to be warm and dry, with temperatures around 94°F. Each year, there are about 15 days when temperatures top 100°F. In Grants Pass, the average high in July is 90°F. When temperatures are over 90°, you can’t afford to have a nonfunctional HVAC system or an overly hot room.

Often, older homes in Grants Pass don’t have the right insulation or AC zoning. One of our HVAC technicians can conduct a thorough evaluation of your system to see what the best path forward will be. People turn to us for a variety of reasons.

• Emergency Services: When your air conditioner stops working, you need someone you can count on. We offer 24/7 emergency services, so you can immediately access the repairs you need.
• Trusted Advisors: We’ve spent years working with Medford and Rogue Valley residents, so we know exactly what homeowners need to stay comfortable.
• Problem Solvers: At heart, we are a team of problem solvers. No matter how big or small your HVAC issue is, we’re determined to find a solution.
• Customers for Life: Our goal is to keep each customer for life, which is why we are committed to providing the best service possible.

Need Help Keeping a Room Cool? Rogue Valley Heating & Air Has You Covered

At Rogue Valley Heating, Cooling, & Electrical, we can help with all of your HVAC needs. Our team has experience with central AC, heat pump, and mini-split installation. We can inspect, repair, and maintain your existing units, so you don’t have to worry about unexpected breakdowns or malfunctions.

Besides AC services in Grants Pass, we can also help with smart thermostats and other home energy efficiency upgrades. Whether you need HVAC upgrades for hot rooms or a new heat pump mini-split, we have the equipment, availability, and know-how you need. If you’re struggling with how to keep sun-facing rooms cool, our team of HVAC technicians can help.

Are you tired of having an unwanted sauna in your sun-facing room? We can fix that. Book a cooling assessment today in Grants Pass!