Whether you’re the current owner of a historic home or thinking about purchasing one, you probably know these properties offer ample charm. They can create complications as well, especially when it comes to HVAC installation. This guide explains a few of the key considerations of making an HVAC upgrade in a historic home. 

Benefits of Upgrading the Current System

The charm and beauty of classic historical home fixtures aren’t likely to extend to the home’s heating and cooling system. Older equipment is bound to operate inefficiently, increasing utility costs. It can also render the home far more uncomfortable when dealing with extreme temperatures. That’s why many older homes have warm and cold spots, as the HVAC system may have difficulty supplying air consistently throughout the property. Upgrading to new equipment will solve both issues, as well as improve indoor air quality. 

The Challenges of Making an Upgrade in a Historic Property

If your home is subject to local ordinances regarding its historic status, you will be restricted in the types of repairs you can make. And even if there are no laws in place currently, you likely won’t want to make drastic changes to the home and lose what you love most about it. You’ll need to ensure the new system is properly sized for the property. Installing a system that’s too small leads to inefficiency, while installing a too-large system means higher utility costs than necessary. 

How to Upgrade Your HVAC System Efficiently

Redoing the existing ductwork in a historic home can be a real chore, so mini-split systems are a great alternative. Mini-splits can heat and cool the house using only an outdoor component and an indoor air handler connected by wiring. That means you won't need to worry about installing new ductwork or accessing existing ductwork. High-velocity systems are another good option. While they also work without air ducts, unlike mini-splits, they use strategically installed tubes to transfer heated and cooled air throughout your property.

Finding an HVAC company that has experience with historic upgrades is essential. High Tech HVAC Co. offers more than two decades of experience when completing installation and repairs in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. If you’re searching for new equipment, they’ll help you find an efficient heating and cooling unit. They also offer a preventive maintenance program to ensure your new equipment runs as long as possible. Learn more about their services online, or call (715) 423-4881 to request an estimate.