Ensuring the proper heating and cooling of your entire home is paramount for keeping your household comfortable. This is why upgrading your HVAC system is one of the most important things to consider when adding a room onto your home. The question is, when is an upgrade appropriate and when is it not? To help you figure that out, let’s take a look at your options:
Option #1: Extend Your Existing System
You can extend the ductwork from your existing system into the new space that you’re constructing. To do so, your system should be no more than 10 years old, in addition to being rated to handle the additional heating and cooling load. If you choose this option, check the ductwork to ensure that it’s sealed and insulated, and consider the use of a zoning system to help keep heating and cooling costs under control.
Option #2: Upgrade to a New System
While upgrading your HVAC system will cost you some money upfront, the fact is that newer models are more energy efficient than older ones, which will save you money over time. Plus, a new system will stay in operation for many years, especially if you hire a technician to give it a check-up once per year.
Option #3: Install an Independent System
In situations where the addition of your home is located far away from the existing duct system, the installation of an independent system of the new area will likely be the right choice. This will help to maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency by lowering heating and cooling losses. If this is the choice you make, enlist the assistance of your contractor to help you decide between a forced-air system or ductless mini-split system.
For more expert advice on upgrading your HVAC system or any other concerns related to home comfort, please contact the professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services. We’ve been serving the needs of Dayton and the surrounding area since 1978.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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