What Should I Know Before Installing an HVAC System in an Older Home?

What Should I Know Before Installing an HVAC System in an Older Home?

Old homes are wonderful, but they can become a bit like a sauna in the middle of a hot summer day. If you’re starting to look at a heating and cooling system upgrade, there are some things you should know before you start shopping. We’ve got the tips you need for older home HVAC system installation.

What to Do About Ducts

Many older homes don’t have ductwork in them, and often they don’t have room to install any. It’s possible to retrofit some homes to install ducts and vents for central heat and air, but in very old homes, it could change the character of the architecture. 

Ductless Options

While it’s unlikely you can upgrade the HVAC system in an old home without some cutting, there are some options that cause minimal damage to interior walls.

  • Mini split: individual units installed in each room means you don’t need bulky ducts to carry warm and cool air. The primary component is outdoors, so you also don’t need room for a big furnace or air handler.
  • High-velocity AC: using small air delivery tubing and registers, this is another cooling option that requires minimal wall damage for installation.

Electrical Considerations

HVAC installation tips for older homes and buildings aren’t complete without mentioning the electrical. Older homes often aren’t equipped with the necessary voltage for a modern heating and cooling system. Therefore, an electrical upgrade might also be necessary when installing HVAC in an older home.

For more on what to know before upgrading your HVAC unit in an older building, turn to the experts for guidance. Contact the experienced team at your local McCall’s dealer to learn more about the steps required to install HVAC in your older home.