Can't cool my apt! AC unit is working fine. Need another solution.?
Question:My apt is on the top floor; lots of sun all day. I tinted the windows, reinsulated the attic and had the AC unit serviced.
Everyone says that my floor vent system isn't ideal but i just have to deal with it. I can't keep this place cool. I close all the drapes, etc. 1,800 sq ft. 3 ton unit. Any ideas are very welcome!
Answers:
3 ton condensing unit should be adequate for that sized space unless you live in Death Valley. Put up light colored/reflective shades, put in a ceiling fan or two, make sure the windows fit tight and don't have a lot of air leaking in. On windows you don't intend to open you can use the cellophane film over the windows. Its normally done in winter, but it helps in summer as well if you have old leaky windows. Make sure the furnace filter is clean and the A-coil is clean, although the service mechanic should have checked that. And if all that doesn't work, stock up on ice cream and popsicles!
Try ceiling fans first. You may be able to use a window unit to bolster the cooling effect. It is possible that your ductwork is under-sized to properly ventilate the space.If this is an old building you may not be able to correct that without great expense.
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