If you’re looking to finish your basement and questioning if basement HVAC installation is possible, the answer is yes! You can have a/c installed in your basement. Depending on what sort of HVAC equipment you currently have, there are different ways to go about it. You can install a multi-zone thermostat or get another thermostat to give this area independent control. Or possibly a ductless mini-split would be easier for your purposes. Whether you are looking to do a basement remodel or basement finishing you will want to be sure to include an HVAC system.
Most Typical Obstacles When it Comes Down To Cooling a Basement
While you can install HVAC in the basement, there are some challenges to think about when it comes to basement cooling. A few of the most common obstacles to keep in mind consist of:
- Dampness/humidity. Basements are typically dampish because they are underground. Keeping out excess humidity is a continuous battle, especially if the basement was finished by a qualified general contractor.
- Windows (or lack thereof). Some finished basements lack windows entirely. Others have very 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 issues.
- Additional square footage (when finished later on). When a basement is finished after the rest of the home it adds extra space that really needs to be cooled beyond what was initially there when the present air conditioning system was installed. The size of a house’s HVAC system is determined based on the number of square feet to be cooled.
Hiring a general contractor from the start of your basement remodel or basement finishing will help ensure these things are taken into consideration.
Cooling Solutions for Your Basement HVAC Installation
The good news is that there are plenty of cooling solutions that can make your basement comfier. These options include:
- Dehumidifier. Air conditioners naturally deal with humidity levels in any space that is being cooled. Nevertheless, it might still be smart to use a separate dehumidifier to get rid of more excess moisture. This makes sure that humidity is correctly managed and that your AC can run more effectively. Since basements can be damp, they can lead to mold and mildew growth. This is why it’s crucial to keep the area dry.
- Ductless mini-split system. Window systems are either difficult or impossible to use in basements. Ductless mini-split cooling systems are perfect for cooling a single space and only require a small hole in the wall for a pipe to hook up to an outside system. They are mounted directly onto the wall and can be made to fit into any space.
- Add on to your current central air system. One choice is to just extend your current HVAC system to cool the basement as well. However, this will only work if your existing system can manage the extra square footage that your basement will add. Your general contractor can determine whether your existing unit can sufficiently cool the additional space. If not, you may think about replacing your system with a larger one. This may be a smart option if your current system is already over eight years old. However, even if it’s new and doesn’t require replacing, that doesn’t mean it can handle the additional load. In this case the ductless mini-split system is still an option.
Other Options for Efficient Basement Cooling
A split system is generally the best option for efficient basement cooling. A ductless split system uses 2 separate components. An outdoor condenser system and an indoor evaporator coil. These components work together to supply both heating and cooling power. The condenser unit sits outside your house, and the evaporator unit sits inside your house. They are connected by a line that runs through the attic. This setup keeps your air conditioning expenses lower than they would be if you had an entire central system in your basement since only part of it needs to run at any given time.
Additionally, this is more energy-efficient than central systems because it doesn’t use ductwork or fans to disperse air throughout your house as central systems do. This means that you won’t have hot spots in areas where there’s not enough airflow. This is because the ductless unit will heat or cool only the space where you need it most.
Basement Finishing and Basement HVAC Installation
When your finished basement is cool and comfortable, you’ll truly appreciate the additional living space it provides. Let Allied Remodeling Contractors assist with your basement HVAC installation so that it looks as good as it feels. Whether you choose to add to your existing system or install new equipment, Allied Remodeling Contractors can help. Our general contractors work with the best in the business! Call today at (385) 412-8088 or schedule your consultation and quote here for service in Utah County. Let us help with all of your basement finishing needs.
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