Improving the Comfort of Your Home, One Room at a Time
Are you hoping to add air conditioning to a part of your home this summer? As anyone living in a warm environment understands, it can be unbearable without that sweet relief of an air conditioner. When considering the upgrade, however, it's important to navigate the process carefully.
Here, you will find some key aspects of expanding an AC system, all of which you need to consider when adding air conditioning to a new area of your home. So, let’s get started on making sure every corner of your home is comfortable and cool.
Understanding Your Current System
Before you add air conditioning to a new area of your home, you need to know what type of system you currently have. This will help you determine if you can extend your existing AC or if you need to install a supplemental unit. You'll also need to know the capacity of your current system to ensure it can handle the additional load.
Common types of residential air conditioning systems include:
- Central air conditioning systems
- Geothermal cooling systems
- Ductless mini-split systems
- Window air conditioners
- Portable room air conditioners
Determining if Your Current System Can Be Extended
If you have existing central air or a geothermal system and would like to extend it into new areas of your home, the construction of your home and where your current ductwork is located will play an important role. In some cases, it may be possible to extend the existing ductwork from one area to another; however, this can be difficult as the design of ducts must remain consistent when extending them.
Another important aspect of extending your existing system is calculating the size AC you will need to cool your home’s square footage, including the new area. If your system is big enough, you may be able to extend the ductwork to reach the new area. However, if your current system isn't big enough to handle the additional load, you may need to consider other options or prepare to purchase a new, larger AC unit.
Call Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to schedule an inspection to determine the size of your current system as well as your options for extending it.
When Extending Your Central Air System Isn't Possible
If your current system can't be extended, you'll need to install a supplemental cooling unit. This could be a window unit, wall-mounted unit, or another ductless mini-split system. You'll want to work with an experienced HVAC expert to determine the best option for your home.
The Benefits of Ductless Mini-Split Systems
If your current system can’t be extended or you don’t have the budget to extend your ductwork and purchase a larger unit, you may want to consider installing a ductless mini-split system instead. These systems don't require ductwork, making them perfect for new areas that can't be connected to your current cooling system.
Some other benefits of ductless mini-split systems include the following:
- They are very energy-efficient and reliable
- They can be used to create zoned cooling
- They are ideal for small spaces
- They can be wall or ceiling mounted
- They are quiet and inobtrusive
How Long Will the Project Take?
The length of the project will depend on several factors, including the type of system you're installing, the size of the area you're cooling, and whether you need additional ductwork. An experienced HVAC expert can give you an estimate of how long the project will take.
Adding air conditioning to a new area of your home can be a big project, but it doesn't have to be complicated. By working with licensed, experienced HVAC experts like Donmar Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, you can ensure that the project is completed safely and efficiently. Whether you're extending your existing system or installing a supplemental one, options are available to help you beat the summer heat.
Are you considering expanding your home’s air conditioning system? Perhaps you are looking for an effective solution to bring air conditioning to your garage or a guest house? Regardless of the project, call Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for expert guidance from home cooling specialists.