Do You Really Need Two AC Units for a Two-Story House?

If you own a two-story house, you may be unaware of the differences between cooling a single-story and two-story home.

Your AC system will need to work harder to cool your two-story home than it would a one-story house. Additionally, because heat rises, you can expect your second story to be warmer than the first floor, requiring more air conditioning power to cool.

Installing a second AC unit for your top floor could help cool your entire home faster. However, depending on the size of your space, another solution may be even more effective.

Read on to learn whether you actually need two AC units for a two-story house –

When to Invest in a Second AC Unit for Your Home

Many homeowners find that adding a second AC unit to their homes makes the most sense for their needs. Here are a few signs that you need a second AC unit for your home:

• The temperature difference between your first and second floor is significant
• Your second floor is at least 1,500 square feet
• You’ve exhausted other solutions for keeping the second-floor cool
• Your energy bills are much higher than they should be
• You need to keep your first floor uncomfortably chilly to cool the second floor

However, the best way to determine whether a second AC unit would suit your needs is to speak with an HVAC expert. You may be able to implement an alternative solution that is more cost-effective than a second air conditioner unit.

The Pros & Cons of Having Two AC Units

Installing two AC units in a two-story house has benefits and disadvantages. Here are the pros of having two units:

• Help keep your second floor cool: The most prominent benefit of having two AC units is ensuring that your second floor stays at your desired temperature.
• Help cool the first floor as well: When you have a second-floor AC unit, the cool air from that unit will naturally drift downstairs, helping to keep the first floor at a comfortable temperature as well.
• Conserve energy: You can choose to cool just the downstairs living space during the day and the upstairs area at night.

Meanwhile, here are a few disadvantages of using two central AC units:

Higher upfront cost: Installing a second AC unit will be an investment upfront, but it may save you money compared to replacing your existing unit with a larger one.
Potentially higher energy costs: Running two AC systems simultaneously may raise your energy bills. However, you can take steps to reduce your energy costs in other ways to balance this increase.

Other Options to Consider for Meeting Your Comfort & Efficiency Needs

Installing a second AC unit isn’t the only way to keep your second floor cool. Here are a few other options to consider:

Upgrading an Outdated or Improperly Sized Unit

If your single AC unit isn’t cooling your second floor well enough, it may be outdated or improperly sized for your home. You can talk to an HVAC expert about upgrading it to one better suited for your home.

Adding a Mini Split System

You can also consider installing a mini-split system to use in conjunction with your existing AC unit. This system can allow you to control the temperatures in individual spaces without needing to install more ducts throughout your home.

Installing an HVAC Zoning System

An HVAC zoning system diverts air away from spaces in the home that don’t need it, allowing for custom temperature zones. With this system, you can direct more air to your second floor, helping to keep it cool.

Improving Your Home’s Insulation

If your second floor has trouble staying cool, your insulation may be the culprit. Sealing air ducts and adding more insulation throughout your home can help keep the hot air outside and the cool air inside.

Improving Your HVAC Maintenance

Scheduling regular maintenance for your HVAC system helps ensure it’s in the best working condition, which may allow you to avoid a second system altogether.

Speak with an HVAC Expert Today at Dave Lane’s Hi-Tech Mechanical Inc.

If your house’s second floor has trouble staying cool, you need an expert HVAC professional to help you diagnose and fix the problem.

Contact Dave Lane’s Hi-Tech Mechanical Inc. today at 713-465-6345 for an HVAC system evaluation and professional advice on how to best meet your comfort and energy efficiency needs in a two-story home.