My upstairs is always HOT.
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My upstairs is always HOT. The upstairs of my house, which is only one bedroom and one bathroom, is hot all the time. Before we moved in (1995) the upstairs was used for storage space, but there is actually a door off the bathroom leading to actual attic space. We have added R39 insulation, had a new roof installed, have a solar attic fan, and still the upstairs is always 85-90 degrees on hot days, and we even have several fans moving in the room along with a window unit a/c (no central a/c upstairs). What else can I do to attempt to cool this room/bathroom? It seems the bathroom is the hottest room, and it’s insulated also.
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Replies
Debbie,
Here are the steps you need to perform:
1. If you don't want to make changes to your home's thermal envelope, you need to install an air conditioner with a higher rating (more BTU/h), or you need to install a second air conditioner upstairs.
2. If you are willing to make changes to your home's thermal envelope, these measures can help:
(a) Install exterior shading devices on west-facing windows (and in some cases, east-facing windows).
(b) Install low-solar-gain window film on east-facing and west-facing windows.
(c) If cost is no object, replace your existing east-facing and west-facing windows with new windows equipped with low-solar-gain glazing.
(d) Seal air leaks in your basement and upstairs ceiling. (The ceiling leaks are best addressed from the attic.)
(e) Improve the R-value of the insulation on your attic floor or along any sloped insulated roof assemblies.