New Ways to Add Air Conditioning to an Older Home
Living in a historic or older home has many benefits – unique architecture, exceptional craftsmanship, and irreplaceable charm, just to name a few. Of course, it also comes with some challenges when it’s time for modern upgrades or renovations.
Adding an air conditioning system to your older home can be particularly difficult. There are three common issues you may encounter.
- You may not have enough room behind your walls to install new ductwork
- Your electrical system may not be adequate
- Any major work may damage parts of the home, including original floors and woodwork
But don’t give up hope quite yet. Thanks to some exciting HVAC technology advances, there are newer options for air conditioning that are more suitable for older homes.
Mini-split air conditioners
Also called ductless air conditioners, mini-split AC systems are designed to cool one room or zone, instead of the entire home like a central system. It is installed directly into the space it’s intended to serve. A compressor and condensing unit is installed on the exterior of the home, while a small box containing an evaporator coil and air handling unit is mounted inside on the wall. Mini-splits are also more energy efficient and quieter than standard window AC units.
Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems
Instead of one fan coil unit that services the entire house, a VRF system has smaller fan coil units that are installed in different areas of the house. A refrigerant line (much easy to install that metal ducts) connects the fan coil units, and allows the system to cool multiple zones at one time.
Unlike other AC systems, VRF can also be used for heat. Other benefits include high energy efficiency and exceptionally quiet operation.
High-velocity HVAC
A modern take on the central air we all know and love is the high-velocity HVAC. Instead of bulky traditional ductwork, a high-velocity HVAC system utilizes small, flexible ducts that are easier to install in tight spaces and around other objects.
As you can see, you don’t have to choose between being comfortable and old-home charm. At Liberty Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re not scared off by challenging setups – we’re ready to find and install the perfect air conditioning system for you. To get started, give us a call at (951) 760-4215.
