HVAC Issues That Can Cause Hot and Cold Spots in the Home

If some rooms in your home are sweltering while others feel freezing, you’re likely dealing with uneven heating and cooling—one of the most common HVAC issues homeowners face. While frustrating, this problem can often be resolved with professional help and a few strategic fixes. Here’s what the experts at Air Max HVAC recommend.

1. HVAC System May Be the Wrong Size

If your furnace or air conditioner is too small (or not efficient enough), it may not be able to maintain even temperatures across your entire home. Signs of adequate heat or cooling issues include:

• One area consistently too hot or too cold

• HVAC system constantly running without reaching set temperatures

Proper HVAC sizing depends on:

• Square footage of your home

• Ceiling height

• Sunlight exposure

• Local climate (e.g., Burbank is in Climate Zone 2, requiring specific BTU/tom ratios)

Even the unit’s efficiency rating matters. For example, an 80% efficient furnace rated at 100,000 BTUs only outputs 80,000 usable BTUs. Choosing the right size and efficiency level is best done by a qualified HVAC technician.

2. Your HVAC System Needs Maintenance or Repair

Sudden changes in indoor comfort could mean your HVAC system is malfunctioning. Even something as simple as a dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause uneven temperatures.

Routine HVAC tune-ups can:

• Catch small issues early

• Improve system efficiency

• Extend system lifespan

• Prevent uneven heating or cooling

If your system is older (15+ years), it might be time for repairs or replacement.

3. Leaking or Poorly Designed Ductwork

Duct problems are a major cause of inconsistent temperatures. Common ductwork issues include:

• Leaks that let conditioned air escape

• Poor insulation, especially in attics or basements

• Bad layout or airflow imbalances

These issues can prevent air from reaching certain rooms, especially those farthest from the HVAC unit. A duct inspection and sealing service can dramatically improve air distribution.

4. No Zone Control (or Improper Use)

In larger or multi-story homes, zoning systems are often necessary to maintain comfort. Zone control allows you to:

• Set different temperatures for different floors or areas

• Avoid overheating upstairs while trying to warm the downstairs

• Reduce energy use by heating/cooling only occupied areas

Installing dampers and multiple thermostats in your ductwork can provide more precise control and help eliminate hot and cold spots.

Tired of Uneven Heating and Cooling? Let Air Max HVAC Help.

Uneven temperatures aren’t just uncomfortable—they often signal a deeper HVAC issue. From system sizing to ductwork and maintenance, the team at Air Max HVAC is here to restore whole-home comfort.

📞 Call today to schedule a system evaluation or duct inspection.

If you are suffering from uneven heating and cooling in your Burbank home, Air Max HVAC offers numerous solutions that may be able to help. We specialize in all types of furnace and air conditioning repair, maintenance, and installation. Our experienced team also has experience with home energy audits and various solutions to help improve your indoor air quality. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.