"Sam Takoy" wrote in message
...
Hi,

My central AC unit is on the 3rd floor and we get no relief on the
first floor. The only intake is in the ceiling of the second floor
and the HVAC specialist tells me that that's the problem. His
proposed solution is a second AC system for the first floor.

I'm thinking: why not take one of the outlet ducts and convert them
to an intake? Crazy enough to work?


The HVAC guys as a rule will suggest the *most* expensive solution.

If you can always get the 2nd floor colder than it needs to be no
matter what the outside temperature, then all you need to do is
circulate some of that cool air downstairs and less upstairs.

So return duct downstairs or adjust vents so more air goes downstairs.
Or add a separate fan and duct to move air downstairs. Whatever.

Also if you have single pane windows or poor insulation, replacing the
downstairs windows with new energy star windows and/or insulation in
walls would do the trick. Then less cooling needed! Or plant trees to
shade the house.