A finished basement can add lots of square footage to your home, but will it be comfortable for you to spend time there? Many homeowners find out quickly that their basements are too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter – they need some sort of heating and cooling system to make them comfortable throughout the year. If you need to come up with a solution to heat and cool your finished basement, here are some of the best options to consider:
Cooling Options
Cooling down your basement can be easier than heating it since heat tends to rise. When it comes to cooling your finished basement, you have two main options to choose from. First, you can extend your central HVAC system into the basement. You will have to extend the ductwork, install registers, and possibly create new zones for your thermostat system. This is best if you have a rather large basement area that needs help with temperature and humidity control.
If the basement tends to be smaller and it doesn’t make sense to extend the ductwork to this area, then you might want to consider a ductless mini split system. This allows a condenser unit on the outside to hook up to an indoor component that generates cool air for the basement. You would mount this indoor portion to a ceiling or wall.
Heating Options
Much like your cooling options, the best heating system ultimately depends on the size of your basement and the layout of the rest of your home. For some people, it may make sense to extend their central HVAC system into the basement area. This will mean extending the ductwork to provide airflow to this region and possibly installing a new thermostat to control the basement area.
If this does not suit you, then you may want to consider a less traditional method of heating your basement. For example, a fireplace can be a great way to create warmth in an area, quickly. You can choose from wood-burning, gas, or electric models. This is significantly more feasible if you already have a pre-existing chimney in the home. Depending on the size of your basement, this may be all the heat that you require.
Some people prefer the idea of using space heaters. This is a cost-effective solution that can keep you cozy all winter long. Plus, they are easy to maneuver around the basement to heat the area that you are spending time in. Position it next to the sofa while you watch a movie or place it in the corner while you play a game of billiards. Space heaters are convenient heating options.
Ask a Professional
Before you make a major decision for your home, be sure to talk it over with a professional. At Provincial Heating and Cooling, we offer top-notch heating and AC repair in Winnipeg. Give us a call today to see how we can help you be more comfortable!