If you have a second floor that is always on fire, you might think there’s not much you can do. If you’ve tried running a ceiling fan and closing all the shades and still can’t get the temperature down to a bearable level, there may be a few simple things you can try to cool it down. Here are a few simple tricks to cool down your upstairs if it’s always too hot.
🥵 What's the best way to cool my two-story home? (Get better airflow)
While a warm upstairs may be as simple as the physics of warmer air rising while colder air sinks, there’s a chance that your AC unit isn’t working optimally. If this happens, you may not notice it as much on the first floor as you would on the upper floor, which is farther away from the unit. Start by making sure that your AC is clear of shrubbery and other obstructions within a three-foot radius of your unit. Anything that’s blocking the airflow around your unit can cause it to work less efficiently, which can not only make your upstairs area warmer, but also put a strain on your fan. It’s also a good idea to have an HVAC professional take a look at your system to make sure everything is working as it should.
While it’s common for people to check for drafts in the winter to save money on heating bills, it may not occur to us to check our windows for drafts in the summer. However, cool air escaping through unsealed windows can reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning and make your upstairs feel warmer. If repairing or replacing windows isn’t in the budget right away, you can try a DIY weatherstripping replacement kit or you can use a window shrink film kit as a temporary solution.
Installing a loft vent can help to release hot air from your second floor. A wired loft vent with a thermostat will cost around $175, or you can opt for a solar fan for between $350 and $450 if you plan on doing the installation yourself. However, it’s a good idea to have a professional do it for you if you’re not an experienced DIYer, as this project involves climbing onto your roof and cutting a hole in it to perform the installation. It typically costs around $650 to have a loft vent installed, but it can be worth it to cool down your upstairs in the sweltering summer heat.
