Do you live in one of those old Boston homes? Do you enjoy the character, inside and out, but struggle with its functionality?
Speaking of functionality, many older homes fall short in regards to heating and cooling. Not only does this make for an inconsistent indoor climate, but it can also result in large heating and cooling costs.
Rather than continue to live like this, it’s time to consider a ductless mini-split system. These systems can be installed in any type of home, but those that are older often make the best candidates.
Here’s why: older homes don’t typically have ductwork, which makes it time-consuming and expensive to install central air conditioning. Not to mention the fact that it’s labor-intensive.
With a ductless mini-split, this isn’t a concern, as these systems don’t use ductwork. Instead, there are air handlers throughout your home that keep it warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Where Do You Put a Mini-Split on an Interior Wall?
Many homeowners consider this their top concern. They like everything a ductless mini-split system has to offer, including the ease of installation and energy savings, but struggle with the idea of installing indoor units throughout their home.
Generally speaking, you can put an indoor air handler on almost any wall in your home. As long as it’s high enough (minimum of six feet from the ground) and unobstructed (such as by furniture), it can work.
With the help of an experienced HVAC contractor, it’s easier to choose mounting locations that are both functional and out of plain view. They may have an idea that you’ve overlooked.
Will a Mini-Split Kill the Character of my Home?
There are many reasons to buy an old home, including the character that comes along with it. These are nothing like the new construction homes of today that often use subpar materials and the same tired layout.
It’s natural to have concerns that the installation of a mini-split will kill the character of your home. Fortunately, there are ways to hide the indoor units:
- Build a custom cover
- Hide it within a bookshelf or entertainment center
- Paint your walls so it blends in with the rest of the room
When you compare the appearance of a mini-split system to other options, such as a window air conditioner and space heater, you soon find that it’s the best choice.
There’s only so much you can do to hide a window AC or space heater, but with wall mounted indoor air handlers you have a variety of ideas to toy with.
Once you decide that a mini-split system is a perfect choice for your older home, it’s time to consult with a professional HVAC installer. They can answer your questions and help you choose the system that’s best for your home and specific needs.
With the right strategy in place, you’re able to install a ductless mini-split system to heat and cool your home, without stealing from its character. And that’s the best of both worlds!