If you’re in the midst of a basement remodel, you might be excited to turn that unused space into the ultimate home theater, study, or gym. However, you won’t be able to enjoy its new functionality without an adequate HVAC system. If you haven’t yet planned this aspect of the finishing process, use the following guide to learn about your options.

What Are the Best HVAC Options for a Finished Basement?

The easiest way to heat and cool your finished basement would be to use the same central system that treats the rest of your house. However, in most homes, the original ductwork wasn’t routed to serve the basement—just the rooms above ground. In this case, you should talk to your HVAC contractor about installing additional ductwork to route air into the finished basement. 

Another option is to leave your existing HVAC system as-is and add a separate, smaller system for your basement. For example, you could mount a mini-split system to the wall or ceiling, a relatively small, rectangular unit that doesn’t require any ductwork. Instead, you assign a mini-split unit to each zone of your home and allow it to work independently of the others. This way, you can turn it off when you head upstairs, or set it to a different temperature from the rest of your house. This customization is especially helpful in basements, as it tends to be colder and more humid underground.

What Considerations Could Affect My Choice?

If you are interested in adding ductwork to your existing HVAC system, you’ll first need to ensure that the main unit is strong enough to handle the addition. A finished basement adds a significant amount of square footage onto your home, increasing the amount of air your system needs to heat or cool. If the unit isn’t strong enough, you could face rising energy bills or sudden breakdowns.

In addition, ductwork installation requires invasive construction measures, as the channels must be hidden behind walls and ceilings. In some cases, this home improvement project can be disruptive to your everyday routine. If you’re hoping to avoid commotion and get heating or cooling in your basement as soon as possible, a mini-split system may be the best solution. 

If you’re interested in learning more about this HVAC planning and installation process, reach out to Hufford Heating and Air Conditioning of Milford, OH. This family-owned company has been helping clients for over 65 years, whether they need installations, repairs, or routine maintenance. To learn more about their heating and cooling experience, visit the website. You can also call (513) 683-2040 to ask for a quote.