If you’re looking to finish your basement and wondering if basement HVAC installation is possible, the answer is yes! You can have cooling installed in your basement. Depending on what sort of HVAC you already have in your home, there are different ways to go about it. You can install a multi-zone thermostat or get another thermostat to provide this area independent control. Or maybe a ductless mini-split would be simpler for your purposes.
Several Common Obstacles When it Comes to Cooling a Basement
While you can install HVAC in the basement, there are some obstacles to think about. A few of the most typical challenges to keep in mind include:
- Dampness/humidity. Basements are frequently damp, since they are underground. Keeping out excess humidity is a consistent battle.
- Windows (or lack thereof). Some basements do not have windows entirely. Others have really small windows that are typically located up high at ground level. This can result in poor air quality, which can lead to mold growth and health complications.
- Extra square footage (when finished later). When a basement is finished after the rest of the house it adds additional space that needs to be cooled beyond what was initially there when the present a/c unit was installed. The size of a home’s HVAC system is determined based upon the amount of square feet to be cooled.
Cooling Solutions for Your Basement HVAC Installation
The bright side is that there are plenty of cooling options that can make your basement more comfy. These options include:
- Dehumidifier. Air conditioners naturally manage humidity levels in any space that is being cooled. However, it might still be wise to use a separate dehumidifier to get rid of even more excess moisture from the air. This ensures that humidity is appropriately handled and that your air conditioner can run more effectively. The natural dampness of basements can result in mold and mildew growth if moisture is not kept in check.
- Ductless mini-split system. Window units are either difficult or impossible to use in basements. Ductless mini-split a/c systems are perfect for cooling a single room and only need a really little hole in the wall for a pipe to connect to an outside unit. They are mounted directly onto the wall and quietly and effectively cool the room.
- Add on to your present central air system. One option is to just extend your current HVAC system to cool the basement as well. However, this will only work if your current system can manage the additional square footage that your basement will add. If you are uncertain about this, the general contractor can determine whether your existing system can adequately cool the additional area. If not, you may think about replacing your system with a bigger one (this may be a smart choice if your present system is already over eight years old). However, if it is relatively new and does not require replacing, but can not handle the additional load, the ductless mini-split system is still an option.
Other Options for Effective Basement Cooling
A split system is normally the best option for effective basement cooling. A ductless split system uses two separate components– an outdoor condenser system and an indoor evaporator coil– that work together to provide both heating and cooling power. The condenser unit sits outside your house and is connected to the evaporator through a line that goes through your attic. This setup keeps your air conditioning expenses lower than they would be if you had an entire central system in your basement because only part of it needs to run at any given time.
A ductless split system is additionally more energy-efficient than central systems because it does not use ductwork or fans to distribute cool air throughout your home like central systems do. This means that you will not have hot spots in areas where there’s insufficient circulation because the ductless unit will heat or cool only the area where you need it most.
Basement HVAC Installation by Air Now Heating and Air Conditioning in Layton, UT.
When your finished basement is cool and comfortable, you’ll unquestionably appreciate the extra living space it offers. Let Air Now Heating and Air Conditioning assist with your basement HVAC installation so that it looks as good as it feels. Whether you choose to add onto your existing system or install new equipment, an Air Now technician can help. Call today at (385) 350-4114 for a free assessment.
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