Remodeling a basement is a terrific way to expand your family’s living space and improve the value of your property. However, you should know the impact this will have on AC units and furnaces before you start. With knowledge and planning, you can seamlessly join your finished basement with your home’s HVAC system. Below are a few aspects to remember when planning the basement.

HVAC Options & Considerations for a Basement Renovation

Can Your HVAC System Handle the Extra Burden?

As you plan the finished basement, remember that your current HVAC system can likely only handle the space you currently use. Remodeling the basement can add several hundred additional square feet to the area your AC units must cover, and your HVAC system may need help. The best way to determine whether you need extra preparation is to look up your equipment on the manufacturer’s website. There, you’ll find the area that your system can reliably cool or heat, informing your decision as to what to do next.

Should You Upgrade or Add-On?

If your current system isn’t powerful enough to handle the heating and cooling of the new basement, you can either expand it or add a new system for the basement. Many homeowners with more modern HVAC systems may prefer to avoid upgrading, as their equipment likely operates efficiently. If you have an older system that needs repairs, upgrading it will boost overall performance.

Installing a new system is expensive because it requires considerable labor and new ductwork. However, a popular alternative is a ductless mini-split system. These use an individual fan and evaporator for each room, so using one with sufficient power for your basement’s square footage can solve this problem.

How Does the Floor Plan Factor Into a Decision?

Your basement likely has many features like a furnace, AC unit, water heater, or other utilities that you cannot move. Not only will you want to cover these to improve the basement’s appearance, but you must also adhere to local safety and building regulations. For example, gas furnaces must have a certain amount of clearance, which the National Fuel Gas Code determines depending on the heat rating. Consult your local building codes to ensure that your remodeling efforts consider safety and comfort.

 

If you need an HVAC solution for your finished basement, contact Crescenze Cooling & Heating in Massillon, OH. This family-owned business has been providing reliable heating and air conditioning services to Stark County for over 15 years, handling installations, repairs, and other services for furnaces, AC units, water boilers, and more. Call (330) 830-0800 or visit them online to learn more about their services.