If you're planning to add a room or section onto your home, one of the major decisions you'll have to make is how to cool and heat the added space. The decision could have far-reaching consequences; if you choose the wrong alternative, it could prove quite costly. Here are three main options for heating or cooling your new home addition.
Extending an Existing Cooling and Heating System
This is the simplest option if your existing HVAC system has the capacity to cool and heat the added space. It just requires the labor and materials to extend existing ductwork. You can also have a zoning system installed, which allows for independent temperature control in the new area.
Replacing an Existing HVAC System
This option is practical if your existing system is nearing the end of its useful service life. This usually happens after 15 years or more for a furnace, and 10 to 12 years for an A/C or heat pump. When replacing your old system, you can upgrade to high efficiency heating and cooling, setting yourself up for lower energy bills. For even more efficiency, combine this with a weatherization project throughout your home by sealing air leaks and enhancing insulation.
Install an Independent System
If either of the first two options are too expensive or otherwise impractical, consider installing independent cooling and heating. A variety of options are available, including a ductless mini split, a small furnace-A/C setup, or a mini-duct HVAC system. With all of these options, you get independent temperature control in your home's added space.
For more advice on heating and cooling your new home addition, please contact us at Air Assurance. We've provided superior HVAC services to Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding communities since 1985.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “GSPhotography/Shutterstock”