How to Improve Indoor Air Circulation

Are you paying ever increasing amounts to cool your home? While there are numerous possible explanations – including system wear and tear – there are several ways to remedy the situation.

One popular DIY measure to is to shut the doors to rooms that aren’t occupied. The idea is simple: provide cool air only where it’s needed. Still, there is one little problem with the closed-door method: it doesn’t work.

Here’s what happens when you close doors:

  • At least some cool air will work its way into shut-off rooms.
  • That same air will look for ways to exit as part of the air circulation process. That shouldn’t be too difficult given the presence of such escape hatches as uninsulated switches or sockets, gaps under and around doors, uncaulked windows, and so on. As conditioned air departs, a vacuum forms that welcomes in airborne pollutants.   

In the meantime, your AC system is working harder to overcome the air circulation obstructions, thus driving up your utility costs while creating the potential for repair problems from the added wear and tear.

More Ways to Save Money

Of course, it takes more than an open bedroom door to fully optimize airflow and reduce your cooling costs. Here are more helpful tips:   

  • Install cold air returns in rooms that must be kept closed.
  • Install a transfer grill to the side or on top of doors you wish to keep closed.  
  • Have your air ducts inspected and sealed as needed.
  • Clean or replace your AC filter every six to eight weeks or as needed.
  • Keep window treatments closed during the day, especially those facing the sun.
  • Install a whole-house attic fan to give your AC system an overnight rest. Once the inside temperature matches or falls below the outside temperature, shut off the AC and turn on the fan.

If you’re already doing everything you can to cut energy consumption but just aren’t satisfied with the results, contact Air Professionals to request our AC preventive maintenance service. Annual maintenance also means fewer and less costly repairs, longer equipment life, safer operating conditions, and cleaner indoor air.

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