Whether you add a sunroom, family room or other addition to your house, being comfortable in your new room no matter the weather is important. However, they can present a unique problem for comfort. This is due to the fact adding ductwork is pricey. And that your heating and cooling system may not be work properly with the increased load, because it was sized without taking the addition into consideration.
One of the most cost-effective possibilities is to add a mini-split. This system provides energy-efficient heating and cooling, with no ductwork required. Find out more about mini-splits and how getting one for your addition could be a good option.
All About Mini-Splits and How They Work
A ductless mini-split, as they’re much like ducted heat pumps that southern homeowners have used for decades.
Heat pumps are very energy efficient because they transfer heat to make your addition cozier. In fact, many have earned ENERGY STAR® certification, which could make you eligible for added rebates and reduce your heating and cooling costs for many years.
Another special feature involves zoned heating and cooling. Because each room usually has its own indoor unit, you can choose your preferred temperature from room to room. As an instance, a mini-split AC is extremely useful if you have a space with specific temperature needs, like a home gym.
Why a Mini-Split is Worth It for Your Room
Installing a mini-split system is worth it for spaces that are without ductwork. Here are a couple reasons why it’s better than adding ductwork and using your existing heating and cooling system.
- Extending ductwork is expensive. Extending ductwork in your new addition can be costly. Although the precise amount will depend on your unique situation, it be as much as thousands of dollars.
- Your current home comfort system may become stressed. When your present heating and cooling system was put in, it was based on the square footage of your house before the addition. This can overwhelm your system and make it wear down more rapidly.
- Your comfort could suffer. Because your heating and cooling system is sized for specific square footage, your comfort might be reduced if your system has to manage a larger space. Your heating and cooling could be less efficient, and your electricity and gas costs might become costlier as a result of the system needing to operate more often.
What Size Mini-Split You Should Get
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 regularly 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 work with our Experts at Orangutan Home Services, we’ll help you select the right size for your new area. And your budget.
An ENERGY STAR mini-split unit can create huge energy savings over its life span, which can be 20 years or longer when adequately serviced. ENERGY STAR says getting one can save you 60% on heating and 30% on cooling, in comparison with an electric heating system and conventional air conditioner.
Trust Orangutan Home Services for Your Mini-Split Installation
From addressing all your questions and helping you choose the right model to supplying Expert mini-split installation, Orangutan Home Services can accommodate all your mini-split needs. If you’re thinking about a home addition or recently finished one, we can help. Give us a call at 602-906-0111 now to request a free consultation and estimate.