While purchasing a historic home certainly has its advantages, there are a few significant drawbacks. For example, not only will the property need some cosmetic work, but it probably lacks modern conveniences like air conditioning. If you bought an older home, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed at the prospect of installing an efficient heating and cooling system. Thankfully, a knowledgeable HVAC contractor can help. In the meantime, here are a few tips for getting started. 

3 Tips for Upgrading a Historic Home’s HVAC System

1. Add Proper Installation 

If your home was built in the 1960s or earlier, it has little to no insulation. It wasn’t until the energy crisis of the 1970s that Americans started becoming concerned about utility costs. Before this, energy providers were relatively cheap and abundant. As such, it’s necessary to insulate historic homes before adding modern HVAC systems. Consider replacing the windows and adding insulation to the attic and basement. This alone can considerably reduce energy consumption. 

2. Consider Going Ductless 

If the home has relatively low ceilings, installing ducts may not be viable. Adding ductwork may also be unappealing if the property has high ceilings that you wish to preserve. As such, HVAC contractors commonly recommend ductless systems in historic homes. Although they cost more to install, they require few modifications to the existing structure. They also allow you to implement zone cooling, provides energy efficiency by allowing various rooms to be cooled and heated at different temperatures.

3. Use Existing Resources 

Depending on how old the home is, it may have some elements you can incorporate into the new HVAC system. Examples include radiators and ventilating grille covers that can be repurposed into updated materials. A contractor that has experience working on old homes can recommend various ways to make the most of the home’s existing features, as well as ways to upgrade the system without detracting from the property’s overall aesthetic. 

If you want to upgrade the heating and cooling system in your historic home, turn to Pointon Heating & Air Conditioning. With locations in Portage and Baraboo, WI, this seasoned HVAC contractor serves residential and commercial clients throughout Columbia and Sauk counties. Their skilled technicians are backed by more than 20 years of experience in the field. As such, you can turn to them for virtually all your needs, from furnace repair to air conditioning installation. To schedule service with this local HVAC contractor, contact them on their website. You can also call (608) 356-4177 to talk to someone in Baraboo or (608) 745-4616 to get in touch with their Portage team.