Whether you’re putting on a second family room, a guest space or growing the kitchen, having additional square footage in your home is sure to be convenient. Just keep in mind you need to consider the heating and cooling necessities of the new room. One of those points should cover whether you should upgrade your HVAC system for a home addition in Memphis. Our guidebook will help you as you take the first step in the process.
Option 1: No Upgrade Necessary
If the home addition involves expanding a space as opposed to adding totally new rooms, you may not need to upgrade the HVAC system at all. This is often the instance if your heating and cooling units were too big to begin with. Request a load calculation from an Expert technician, such as one from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning by calling 901-235-1196. This will determine if your present HVAC equipment can handle the modifications you’ve made to your residence.
Option 2: Upgrade Your HVAC System
Another idea for delivering heat and air conditioning into your home addition is to add on to the ductwork from your present forced-air unit. If you have radiators or baseboard heating, you can add hot water piping to the new room.
Please note that, along with ductwork or water piping, you may also have to install HVAC equipment to handle the increased load. The ensuing increase in electricity use may even call for an enhanced electrical panel. If your heating and cooling system requires a replacement soon, this may be a good option.
Option 3: Install a Ductless Mini-Split
Rather than upgrading your existing system to cover the extra area, you can add a freestanding one. Ductless mini-splits are ideal for this. They consist of two parts. There’s a condensing unit that is installed on a slab outdoors, akin to an air conditioner. Then there’s the sleek indoor blower that is installed on the ceiling or wall.
Similar to a central heat pump, mini-split HVAC systems deliver both heating and cooling for constant comfort from one piece of equipment.
Since it links with a wall- or ceiling-mounted air handler, zero ductwork is required. You can even join up to four indoor units with one outdoor unit for zoned heating and cooling in distinct areas in your house. A ductless mini-split may be the best HVAC system for your home addition if:
- Your present system can’t handle the additional room, and you’re not prepared to replace it all today.
- The old and expanded rooms have differing heating and cooling needs.
- You are looking to add air conditioning to your house without installing or adding on to the ductwork.
If you need help deciding which HVAC option is right for you, let Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning provide our suggestions. We have years of experience helping homeowners fine-tune their indoor comfort, with a passion for efficiency and eco-friendly HVAC systems.
We’ll start the process by performing a load calculation to figure out your needs. Then, we can offer cost comparisons for ductwork installation and system upgrades vs. putting in a ductless mini-split HVAC system. We’ll give you all the options so you can make a smart decision. To begin, contact us at 901-235-1196 to schedule an appointment right away!