Finishing your basement is an impressive way to expand your living space. You might be planning that perfect spot to watch a variety of sports on your large-screen TV or possibly making a play space for the kids. But no matter what the motive, it can be a fantastic investment.
But in all those discussions about where that TV should go, how much living space you’ll want, or whether to include a bathroom, the one thing that often gets ignored is heating and cooling that finished basement. Truth is, before any framing or drywall begins to go up, you need to take a step back and consider how you want your HVAC system to keep your newly remodeled living space comfortable year-round.
Welcome to our blog about the details of heating and cooling systems tailor-made for finished basements. Here, the experts at Sugarloaf, PA-based AC&R Services intend to shed some light on the various facets that need to be thought through when considering how best to heat and cool your new basement.
First, there are a variety of factors that play a part in the heating and cooling needs of your basement, including the size and layout of the space, the kind of soil encircling your home and the local climate.
The quantity of insulation in your basement walls and the energy efficiency of your present HVAC system also play a part. Lastly, how often you’re in your basement and why you’re there can also affect the kind and scope of heating and cooling solutions needed.
We’ll also bear in mind the budget and layout in our planning process. Our experts will cautiously calculate your basement’s structure, size and, yes, your budget to propose the utmost heating and cooling options.
There are several options for heating and cooling your basement, and our team at AC&R Services is here to help you plot a course through them. With the correct selection, you can help assure comfort and energy efficiency in your newly remodeled basement.
Consider extending the current HVAC system
One of our expert AC&R techs in Sugarloaf, PA can help you decide if your existing HVAC system can take care of the heating and cooling needs of a finished basement along with the remainder of the house. The system needs to remain effective even after widening its services to the basement. This approach is one of the easiest and least costly as it only needs some additional ductwork and superior workmanship provided by contractors such as AC&R Services, provided your present system can manage the additional workload.
Ductless mini-split system
Your second option could be a ductless mini-split system for both heating and cooling your remodeled basement. If you don’t want to go through the annoyance of installing ductwork, this is a very appropriate option. These systems are wall units, connected to an outdoor unit. They don’t require a duct system such as the other systems discussed here. They have been proven to effectively heat or cool your finished basement, and they can also be integrated into any zone heating or cooling plan that you presently have for the rest of your home. Each unit can be set up individually, giving you a measure of control over how your basement will feel. AC&R Services, located in nearby Sugarloaf, PA, offers a variety of mini-split ductless systems from the most trusted brands in the industry.
Add a fireplace or wood stove
A basement can be as comfy as any other room in your home. One way to warm it and deliver that pleasant ambience is by adding a fireplace or wood stove. Electric fireplaces aren’t great, as they don’t supply a lot of heart. However, a gas or wood fireplace can provide heat to warm your basement. Wood stoves, particularly high-efficiency units, can also sufficiently heat your basement.
Evidently, it’s not as troublesome to keep your finished basement cool as it normally remains cooler than the remainder of the house. But just as you need to mull over heating options, if you decide on a fireplace for your source of heat, you might want to determine the best way to maintain a comfortable cool temperature in your basement for those hot summer days. Obviously, the choice is up to you.
Electric baseboard heaters
When individual room heating is favored, electric baseboard heaters offer a straightforward and cost-efficient answer. Our team at AC&R can install these heaters along the baseboards of your basement, supplying steady warmth exactly where you need it the most. With manual or programmable thermostat options, you’ll be able to appreciate personalized comfort custom-made to your preferences. Again, you might want to think about cooling options if you feel that the basement will need to be cooled, especially in July and August.
Radiant heating systems
Radiant heating systems depend on boilers. They heat up water and then pump that warm water through the floor or walls. The water then releases heat as it passes through the floor or walls, warming up your basement space. Radiant heating systems tend to be highly efficient. Plus, if you are planning to change out the flooring in your basement, it’s the perfect time to install radiant floor heating. These systems can do such a good job that they will take pressure off your furnace to heat the other parts of your home. Once again, you might want to consider cooling options if you feel that the basement space will need to be cooled. The friendly folks in Sugarloaf, PA at AC&R Services are here to help with your specific needs.
Portable comfort options
For add-on heating and cooling in smaller areas of your basement, you can investigate the variety of portable space heaters or portable basement air conditioners as well as portable fans. These are quick, budget-friendly solutions; however, they are not energy-efficient, and they normally aren’t able to handle large areas.
Humidity control solutions
You might also want to think about preventing moisture accumulation and retaining a healthier indoor setting in your finished basement with our humidity control options. From high-quality dehumidifiers to professional insulation and ventilation, we’ll help you tackle moisture-related concerns effectively and guarantee long-lasting comfort for you and your family.
Now that you are aware of the heating and cooling options for your finished basement, it’s time to determine what option works best for your actual basement in addition to your budget. Talk to a professional HVAC tech at AC&R Services if you’re interested in hearing about the various options or just want to secure additional information about one specific option. Already made up your mind? Great! AC&R Services is here to help with any installation. Contact us today or visit us in person in Sugarloaf, PA for more information.