Should You Install a New HVAC System for a Home Addition? 

Whether you’re building a second family room, a guest suite or expanding the kitchen, having additional square footage in your house is sure to be convenient. Just don’t forget to think about the heating and cooling necessities of the new space. One of those considerations should incorporate whether you should upgrade your HVAC system for a home addition in Fort Lauderdale. Our guide will help you as you take the first step in the process. 

Option 1: No Upgrade Required 

If the home addition involves growing a space rather than building entirely new rooms, you may not need to upgrade the HVAC system at all. This is most likely the situation if your heating and cooling equipment was too big originally. Schedule a load calculation from a pro technician, for example one from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning by calling 954-736-4314. This will figure out if your current HVAC equipment can take on the modifications you’ve made to your home. 

Option 2: Install a New HVAC System 

Another option for delivering heat and air conditioning into your home addition is to add on to the ductwork from your current forced-air equipment. If you rely on radiators or baseboard heating, you can extend hot water piping to the new space. 

Be aware that, in addition to ductwork or water piping, you could also have to put in HVAC equipment to take care of the higher load. The following increase in electricity consumption might even require an enhanced electrical panel. If your heating and cooling system needs to be replaced soon, this may be a good solution. 

Option 3: Get a Ductless Mini-Split 

Rather than upgrading your existing equipment to handle the extra space, you can install a freestanding one.  Ductless mini-splits are perfect for this. They consist of two parts. There’s a condensing unit that sits on the ground outdoors, akin to an air conditioner. Then there’s the sleek indoor blower that mounts to the ceiling or wall. 

Similar to a central heat pump, mini-split HVAC systems provide both heating and cooling for year-round comfort from a sole solution. 

Since it includes a wall- or ceiling-mounted air handler, zero ductwork is required. You can even join up to four indoor units with one outdoor unit for zoned heating and cooling in distinct parts of your residence. A ductless mini-split may be the best HVAC system for your home addition if: 

• Your current system can’t handle the additional area, and you’re not ready to replace it all today. 
• The old and new spaces have differing heating and cooling needs. 
• You want to add air conditioning to your house without getting or lengthening the ductwork. 

If you need help deciding which HVAC option is right for you, let Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning give our advice. We have a lot of experience helping homeowners fine-tune their indoor comfort, with a commitment to efficiency and eco-friendly HVAC options. 

We’ll start the process by conducting a load calculation to figure out your needs. Then, we can offer cost listings for ductwork installation and system upgrades vs. installing a ductless mini-split HVAC system. We’ll give you all the options so you can make an informed decision. To begin, reach at 954-736-4314 to schedule an appointment now!