By finishing your basement, you can turn your unused storage space into a major home expansion. However, to make the area comfortable, you’ll also have to add to your residential HVAC system. If you’re struggling to decide on the right cooling and heating option for your finished basement, the following guide can help.

The Best HVAC Options for a Finished Basement

There are two main options for heating and cooling your new living area. You could either expand your current HVAC system to treat the additional square footage or add a separate, smaller unit reserved just for the basement.

If you are currently relying on a central HVAC system to pump cool or warm air through ducts in your walls and ceilings, the first option would mean adding more ducts that reach down to the basement.

If you decide to go the other route, you might consider ductless mini-split systems, which simply mount onto the wall or ceiling and only treat the rooms they’re in. You might also want to invest in additional heating sources, such as a smaller furnace, radiator, or electric fireplace.

Considerations That Might Affect Your Choice

Capacity

First, you’ll want to find out if your current HVAC system can handle the expansion. Your contractor will be able to tell you how much air your existing unit is designed to churn out to see if the basement’s needs would strain it.

Construction

If the unit is powerful enough, you’ll then consider the ductwork installation process. As this involves carving out space for new ducts inside your walls, the construction could be intrusive and postpone the completion of your renovations. A ductless system wouldn’t require this disruption, as it operates independently. 

Climate Needs

You might also want to think about how much heating or cooling you’ll need. If you’ll be cozy with an indoor fireplace during the colder months, you might only need a system that offers cooling capabilities.

Finally, consider humidity—underground rooms are prone to more moisture, so if your current residential HVAC system doesn’t include a dehumidifier, you’ll want to purchase a separate system for the basement.

If you’re looking for a contractor to help you make this decision, turn to Concord Heating & Air Conditioning of Cabarrus County, NC. Since 1977, this company has catered to commercial and residential HVAC needs alike, from installations to repairs and replacements. Visit the website to learn more about their offerings, or call 704-786-6608 to schedule an appointment.