Modern Air Conditioning Options For Old Homes
Older homes exhibit some style and grandeur that new constructions can’t match. Unfortunately, they lack energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. If you are living in an older home, chances are you are paying 25% more in energy bills than a similar-sized modern home. That’s is a lot of money going down the drain every year.
Luckily there are great solutions to fit in modern air conditioning services without extra hassle and cost. Read on to understand the issues of installing modern AC systems to older homes and potential solutions.
<h2> The Problem with Older Homes</h2>
Most older homes were built with a central heating system in the shape of boilers and radiators, which do not require ductwork to distribute conditioned air throughout the home. That means, during the design of the homes, ductwork was not taken into consideration.
The conventional ductwork ranges from 6-12 inches wide, and this poses a challenge of where to place it. This would mean tearing the walls and creating areas behind the walls or in the ceiling to hide the ducts. That would result in altering the structure of the house and sacrificing the beauty of the older home- which is significantly costly.
Another challenge is the lack of sufficient space to place the equipment. Most of the traditional AC units are large and often have specific requirements for where to place the unit in relation to the entire house. Accommodating the equipment and meeting its spatial needs can be difficult or even impossible.
Besides, some of the older houses’ electrical systems may not be sufficient to handle the load of the modern A/C units. However, the cost of upgrading the electrical systems may not be as much a problem as finding space for the equipment and ducts.
Understandably so, you might be thinking of installing the window AC units, which you can remove and install when the indoor conditions require AC. Unfortunately, these systems are inefficient and noisy, thus not the best alternative.
But don’t worry, there are some solutions that are more efficient and less costly.
<h2>Air Conditioning options for Homes without ducts</h2>
<h2>1. Ductless Mini-split systems </h2>
They are called split systems because they consist of two major components: the outdoor unit with the compressor and the condensing unit and the indoor unit with the evaporator coil and
These units do not require ductwork installation, which makes them an ideal way to cool old houses when ducts are not an option. The outdoor unit is placed under a window on the outside, while the indoor unit can be mounted on the wall. The outside unit is connected to the indoor unit through a line a set containing wiring and refrigerant piping, through a small hole in the exterior walls of the home.
They are small and compact units that do not demand much space and so they can be placed almost anywhere in your home. These systems are ideal replacements to the window units as they are cost-effective, quiet, and easy to install in older homes with limited space.
Perhaps the most appealing feature of these systems is that you can zone your home and set up different units for each zone. Setting up zones allows you to turn on the AC one zone at a time instead of having to cool the whole house at once.
<h2> 2. Variable refrigerant Flow(VRF) Systems </h2>
VRF systems are similar to multi-split systems. They both have the outdoor and indoor units connected by a conduit with refrigerant and electrical lines. However, a VRF system is a centralized unit controlling the refrigerant flow of each indoor evaporator. This is unlike the multi-split system where you can turn on or off different zones independently.
<h2> 3. High Velocity systems </h2>
A high-velocity HVAC system is one of the best AC options for older homes whose designs do not accommodate air ducts. The high-velocity system distributes air through small air ducts- usually 2-inch-wide- that can pass through the walls without cutting big holes. The high-velocity system comes with a compact air handler that can easily be fitted in attics, basements, or even in the closets, making the AC suitable for older homes.
By installing the high-velocity system, you will have minimal damage to your wall, and so you will preserve the architectural integrity and the grace of the older home. From restored bans to city rowhomes, the high-velocity AC provides comfort with minimal cost and disruption.
<h2> Factors to consider when choosing an AC solution</h2>
Different houses have varying needs, and for you to identify the best solution to fit the needs, these are some of the factors to consider.
<h2> 1. Space for installation</h2>
For the high-velocity system, you will want to figure out if you have enough space to accommodate the system. Much as it is a compact system, you need the space to place the air handler. Again, are you ready to run ducts through your house? The ducts are much smaller than traditional ones, but they may be disruptive than the split system, which is mounted on the wall.
<h2> 2. The cost of installation</h2>
Ever wondered why you have to install the AC system entirely in the house when you only want to cool one room? In that case, mini-split systems are ideal as they allow you to focus in a room or a zone at a time, which will save the on the costs of installation by breaking down the project into small mini-projects. Additionally, mini-split air conditioners are far easier to install than central units that require ductwork
<h2> 3. Central System or Modular </h2>
Depending on your preference, you might choose to have a centralized air conditioning system or have different thermostats for different zones or rooms. A mini-split system can allow you to set different temperatures for different rooms, giving you more control over the AC. However, it can be difficult to manage the system.
<h2> 4. Efficiency </h2>
Having individual control for each room means you can cool the rooms that you need to cool at a given time. This kind of flexibility can save a lot of money on utility bills at the end of the year.
Aesthetic value
High-velocity air conditioners are far less distracting compared to mini-split systems mounted on the wall. They can easily be placed in inconspicuous places such as the basement or the attic. Besides, the ducts are small and can be hidden easily.
<h2> 6. Cooling Needs</h2>
Are you looking for a central unit to cool an entire home, or you need to boost a few rooms. With mini-split systems, you can target a few rooms, while the high-velocity systems need one system to cool the entire house.
In any form of installation, you will need to cut or do some modifications to your room; however, mini-split systems, VRF, and high-velocity systems can be installed with minimal alterations. Ultimately it is a more economical approach to air conditioning your house.
<h2> Final thoughts </h2>
Choosing between air conditioners for your old home can be challenging, and that is why you need to contact[company_name]. We care about your comfort; that is why we offer excellent HVAC, plumbing, and solar services. Serving throughout South California, our services are founded on honesty, integrity, and a commitment to developing long term relationships with all our customers.