What Is Air Stratification In Columbus Homes And How Do I Combat It?

You’ve probably never heard of air stratification or ever imagined it could make your Columbus home less comfortable than it could be. But let us ask you a couple questions. Are some parts of your home more comfortable than others? Do you notice significant differences in temperatures as you go up and down the stairs? Are there times when your head feels warm, but your feet feel like they’re surrounded by ice? Those and many other comfort issues can be caused by a natural process known as air stratification. The good news is there are ways to address it.

What exactly is “air stratification”?

Have you ever noticed how the air near your Columbus home’s ceiling is substantially warmer than what’s near the floor? That’s basic physics in action. Warmer air is lighter, so it rises, while cooler air flows downward. Rooms on the top floor are normally much warmer than those in your basement. In homes that are well-insulated – in other words, with few drafts to mix things up – the air can settle into layers. You can take a thermometer from the floor to the ceiling and notice the temperature change every couple of feet. That’s air stratification – what happens when the indoor air settles into layers.

Is air stratification dangerous?

Not at all, but it can sure be uncomfortable. When the air in your Columbus home is not well-balanced or circulating properly, you’ll probably notice the difference between those layers. It’s a sign that your heating and cooling isn’t as efficient as it could be.

Is there a solution?

The best solution to the kind of stratification that frustrates Columbus homeowners is to keep the air moving. The better that the air circulates throughout your home, the more even your comfort will be. One of the easiest ways to improve circulation is by wisely using ceiling fans. During the cooler months, setting the fan to spin clockwise at a low speed will spread warm air from the ceiling throughout the room without creating a draft. In the summer, you can switch the direction to create a constant light breeze.

Improving ventilation and sealing can help

In addition, opening windows when outdoor temperatures are moderate and/or using floor fans can move air through your Columbus home. A whole-house fan located in your attic is another option, as it can force hot air out of the upper parts of your home, so it’s replaced by cooler outdoor air. Improving your home’s insulation and sealing can also help, because it will minimize costly energy leaks and eliminate uncomfortable drafts.

So can an upgraded HVAC system

The most effective system for combatting air stratification in your Columbus home is to install one of today’s advanced furnaces or heat pumps that’s equipped with what’s known as a variable-speed motor. Unlike the traditional blower motor that simply turns off and on, creating wide variations in indoor temperatures, variable-speed technology operates for a longer time at slower speeds, constantly balancing airflow and temperature throughout your home. You probably won’t notice the air moving, but you’ll definitely be aware of how much more comfortable you’ve become.

Ready to improve your home’s comfort?

Call the Local Indoor Air Specialists - Johnson Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing

If your Columbus home is less comfortable than you want it to be, whether that’s because of something like air stratification or an air conditioner that just isn’t keeping up, call the home comfort experts at Johnson Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing. We’ll examine your home and current system and explain your options. Our team is happy to answer your questions and share what you need to make the right choice. There’s no need to be uncomfortable when we’re just a phone call away. Just call (317) 714-0936!