Believe it or not, your HVAC system can have a major impact on your family’s sleeping habits.
Things like temperature, humidity, noise and air quality can all affect the way you catch your Z’s every night. Getting enough sleep is important to you and your family’s overall health and wellbeing. Make sure your HVAC is adjusted correctly to improve your quality of sleep so you can wake up every day ready to take on the world.
Inconsistent or Wrong Temperatures
Temperature plays an important role in your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Studies have shown that the optimal sleeping temperature is between 60-67 degrees. Babies and younger children prefer a slightly higher temperature between 65-70 degrees. Set your system to a temperature that fits your family’s preferences.
If your HVAC system is older or in need of a service, it might not be able to maintain a consistent temperature. Fluctuating temperatures can hinder your ability to fall asleep or even wake you up in the middle of the night. One minute you’re sweating under the covers and the next you’re shivering while you reach for another blanket. If your HVAC is having trouble maintaining a consistent temperature, it could be your thermostat.
High or Low Humidity
As anyone living in Louisville, Kentucky already knows, humidity can make things uncomfortable in a hurry. If the humidity is too high, you’ll probably toss and turn all night. If the humidity is too low, you could be left with dry, itchy skin. Maintaining the right humidity is a tricky job, especially during seasonal changes, but it’s important for quality sleep. Here are some things that might be affecting your indoor humidity:
- AC unit is too large for the space
- Unit limited to a single speed
- Negative air pressure inside your home
- Using the wrong thermostat setting
- Old unit can’t handle the load
Noisy HVAC Systems
It can be pretty hard to sleep when it sounds like a monster is just outside your bedroom. A sudden loud noise in the middle of the night can wake you up and prevent you from getting a good night’s rest. Depending on the outside temperature, your HVAC system might have to kick on multiple times per night and stop you from getting the sleep you need.
Whether it’s your AC unit or your furnace, loud noises could mean that your unit is in need of repair. Call a technician to service your HVAC unit before small issues become larger, more expensive problems.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
Your HVAC system recirculates the air in your home several times per cycle. If there are contaminants in your duct system like dirt, dust, pollen, dander or pet hair, it’s all being scattered throughout your home and lowering the overall air quality.
If someone in your family has allergies, these contaminants can be a major problem that could affect their ability to breathe or even make them feel sick. If you regularly wake up with congestion, eye irritation, sore throats, or headaches, it might be your HVAC system.
Follow these easy steps to help improve your indoor air quality for better sleep and overall health:
- Change air filters regularly
- Open windows and let fresh air in
- Keep up with HVAC maintenance
Sleep Better with a Professional HVAC Service
With the impact that your HVAC system can have on your family’s sleep, it’s important to keep it properly maintained. If you’ve been experiencing anything from this list, it might be time to call a professional. At Dauenhauer, we have years of experience working with Louisville, KY, families performing HVAC services, repairs and tune ups. Let us help your family stay comfortable and healthy. Contact us for a quote today and be on your way to better sleep in no time.
