Maybe you own one of those big, old Boston homes and are making some repairs and upgrades. Or maybe you’re interested in buying and renovating an older home in the near future.
While there’s a lot to think about, don’t overlook the importance of implementing a sound HVAC plan from the start. Waiting too long to do this can limit your options, while also costing you time and money.
When renovating a home, there are three basic types of air conditioning systems to consider:
- Ductless air conditioning
- Central air conditioning
- Window air conditioning
Window air conditioners are effective in cooling a small space, but it’s not a solution for cooling your entire home.
So, that leaves you with two options: ductless and central air conditioning.
While you can’t go wrong with either option, ductless air conditioning is often the best choice when renovating a home. Here’s why:
Less Work
Installing central air conditioning is a hassle, as you’re required to add ductwork throughout your home. This means tearing into walls and ceilings, which leaves you with a mess and an extensive clean-up.
With a ductless AC system, you don’t have to concern yourself with this. There is no ductwork, but you still have the ability to cool your entire home, thanks to individual units strategically placed throughout.
More Cost Efficient
While central air conditioning systems and ductless AC systems are comparable in cost, in regards to the equipment, labor is a different story entirely.
Since it takes more work to install central AC, due to the addition of ductwork, labor costs can quickly skyrocket.
And that doesn’t even take into consideration the cost of hiring a contractor to repair the damage to your home.
According to HomeAdvisor, ductless mini-split air conditioning systems range in cost from $2,000 to $14,500. The average cost of a 12,000 BTU system is approximately $3,000.[i]
Factors that impact cost include:
- The manufacturer
- Size of the system
- Number of indoor units
- Energy efficiency rating
Easy to Add to it in the Future
Even if you have a detailed renovation plan in place, you never know what’ll change in the future.
For example, you may decide to finish your attic or basement space. Or maybe you decide to add a third floor or an addition off the back of your main floor.
When you do this, there are HVAC implications to consider. With a ductless system already in place, it’s much easier to add to it. All you need is another indoor unit.
This isn’t the case with central air, as you’d have to run ductwork to the new space.
Final Thoughts
For many homeowners going through a renovation, ductless air conditioning is the right choice.
There are many benefits, ranging from the ease of installation to energy savings.
If you have questions about ductless air conditioning or need help planning your renovation project, contact us. An experienced tech can visit your home and provide the guidance you’re seeking.