How to Cool the Second Floor of a House

Are you struggling to keep the second story of your home cool this summer? As hot air rises, so does the temperature in your upper level. Keeping it cool can be a challenge, even if you have an air conditioner. Read on to learn our top tips for maximizing the output of your home’s cooling systems and keeping the second story of your home nice and cool.

Keep Drapes Drawn

One of the biggest factors of your indoor temperature is good old sunshine. When the sunshine comes in, the house heats up. South-facing homes are especially prone to this type of warming. One of the best ways to keep it cool is to close your home’s drapes, curtains, blinds, or window coverings to block the sun’s rays and reduce the mid-day increase in temperature of your home.

Turn Off Your Lights

Light bulbs let off a surprising amount of heat. Even energy-efficient bulbs like LED and CFL bulbs can generate warmth. Turning off lights when you leave a room and when you leave the house helps keep your home cool. Especially make sure to turn off any unnecessary lights on the top floor of your home.

Reduce the Use of Kitchen Appliances

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean you can’t cook—but the use of stoves and ovens can substantially increase the temperature of your kitchen, and in turn, other parts of your home.

If you plan to cook:

• Try to wait until later in the day to use the oven or stove
• Choose recipes with minimal cooking time
• Consider grilling outside

Adjust Downstairs Air Vents

If you find yourself spending more time upstairs than downstairs, consider adjusting your home’s main floor air vents. Partially closing vents in the main floor or unused rooms will direct cool air to the rooms you spend the most time in. Don’t close your vents all the way—that can create pressure issues with your HVAC system. Instead, partially close vents downstairs in rooms you use less often. This will help push more cool air to your second and upper floors.

Install Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans in upstairs rooms can make a significant difference in temperature in the summer. The air from the fan creates a cooling effect and can help give your A/C a boost. Make sure the fan is rotating in the right direction for summer.

Take Care of Your Air Conditioning System

One of the best ways to keep your whole house cooler this summer is by taking care of your air conditioning system. Regular air filter replacement can ensure your equipment is running at its most effective and efficient. If your air filter is dirty, your system must work overtime to try to keep up. Be sure to schedule annual maintenance for your air conditioner system prior to the warm summer season.

Don’t Lose Your Cool, Call Aire Serv 

Are you feeling challenged by the constant heat of summer? Don’t sweat it out. If any part of your house is feeling a bit stifling, call Aire Serv®. Our expert technicians are on hand to help you find the cooling solution that’s right for your home. Schedule an appointment online to learn more about your home cooling options.