[masraum]

Originally Posted by javadog

Add a second thermostat upstairs....

JR

Originally Posted by T77911S

i would think you could parallel 2 controls, one up, one down as long as the 24v power source is the same.

I think this is the best idea yet. Thermostats up and downstairs. I think this is doable, BUT I think it would require some diodes someplace, but I'm not sure where.

That's the question that I'd really like an answer for.

"How can I have 2 controllers without frying some part of the system?"

I've got 10" or 12" of loose fill insulation in the attic. I like the idea of the spray foam that sticks to the bottom of the roof. That should keep some heat out of the attic which should help.

This is the second best answer and might be the one that I go with.

Originally Posted by red-beard

Just move the Thermostat. Typically it is a 4 wire setup. Run a new cable through the ceiling. It is all low voltage wiring (24 VDC). You then adjust the registers downstairs so that you get enough cooling without freezing everyone.

Just note the color code of the wires, and the marked terminals. The terminals are marked the same on the thermostat and the HVAC control board in the furnace & A/C.

I'd love to get more sophisticated, and if it was a 1 story, I probably would, but then a 1 story probably wouldn't have the same problem.

Originally Posted by dad911

The right way to do it is zone dampers, and add a second thermostat with controls. Depends how accessible the ductwork is. But frankly, I would just move the thermostat, and balance the system with dampers.

I've seen houses where the thermostat was just in a terrible location. Sunlight, near doors, even on an outside wall.

Ouch, yeah, at least mine is not that bad.

Originally Posted by T77911S

have you checked the insulation in the attic or added any? you may even look into the spray foam stuff, i have it in my music room. they can spray it on the rafters of the roof and it will drop the attic temp a lot in the summer. the heat from the attic will radiate into the house late into the evening.

I've got 10 or 12" of loose fill insulation in the attic, but a foam that sticks to the bottom of the roof sounds good. That should stop some of the heat from getting into the attic space. I'll look into that.