How to Heat and Cool a New Area in Your House That Doesn’t Include Ductwork 

Whether you add a sunroom, family room or other space to your home, being comfortable in your new room no matter the weather is important. However, they can create a unique situation for comfort. This is because installing ductwork is costly. And that your heating and cooling system may not be deal with the higher load, because it was sized without including the addition.

One of the most affordable options is to get a mini-split. This system offers energy-efficient heating and cooling, with no ductwork needed. Learn more about mini-splits and how getting one for your addition can be a good fit.

All About Mini-Splits and How They Work

A ductless mini-split, as they’re much like ducted heat pumps that southern homeowners have relied on for decades.

Heat pumps are very energy efficient because they transfer heat to make your room cozier. In reality, many have achieved ENERGY STAR® certification, which could make you eligible for added rebates and lower your heating and cooling costs for many years.

Another unique feature involves zoned heating and cooling. Since each room typically has its own indoor unit, you can set your preferred temperature from room to room. For example, a mini-split AC is particularly helpful if you have a room with specific temperature needs, including a home gym.

Why a Mini-Split is Worth It for Your Addition

Getting a mini-split system is worth it for areas that are without ductwork. Here are a few reasons why it’s smarter than extending ductwork and using your existing heating and cooling system.

    1. Extending ductwork is costly. Extending ductwork in your new addition can be costly. Although the total amount will depend on your unique situation, it could be thousands of dollars.
    1. Your existing home comfort system could become overworked. When your present heating and cooling system was chosen, it was based on the square footage of your residence in advance of the addition. This may overwork your system and make it fail more quickly.
    1. Your comfort may suffer. Since your heating and cooling system is sized for precise square footage, your comfort may decrease if your system is forced to manage a bigger area. Your heating and cooling might be less powerful, and your electricity and gas costs may go up since the system needs to turn on more regularly.

What Size Mini-Split You Should Install

Like traditional systems, mini-splits are offered in various sizes based on the square footage they’ll be heating and cooling. Here are three of the most frequently installed sizes:

    • 400-650 square feet – 12,000 BTU mini-split
    • 600-1,000 square feet – 18,000 BTU mini-split
    • 800-1,300 square feet – 24,000 BTU mini-split

When you partner our Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we’ll help you get the proper size for your new space. And your price point.

An ENERGY STAR mini-split unit can generate big energy savings over its lifetime, which can be 20 years or more when correctly serviced. ENERGY STAR says installing one can save you 60% on heating and 30% on cooling, when compared to an electric heating system and conventional air conditioner.

Trust Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Your Mini-Split Installation

From addressing all your questions and helping you choose the ideal model to providing Expert mini-split installation, Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can take care of all your mini-split needs. If you’re thinking about a home addition or recently finished one, we can provide support. Reach us at 866-397-3787 today to request a free consultation and estimate.