Old and historic homes certainly do have their own charm, but they also come with certain challenges. Incorporating modern comforts and amenities like an HVAC unit into these homes is one of the biggest problems faced by many homeowners. You want to get an HVAC unit installed but at the same time, you do not want to disturb the natural architecture of the house. Worry not, we are here to guide you on the best way to get an HVAC unit installed in your old house.
In this article, we will take a look at some useful tips you should consider before buying HVAC systems for your old home. To learn more about buying HVAC systems for your holder home or to consult with our experts for your St. Louis area home, contact the heating and cooling experts at Galmiche & Sons today online or by phone.
Buying HVAC Systems: Things to Consider
1. Buying HVAC Systems That Meet the Structural Needs of Your Old Home
When it comes to buying HVAC systems for an old home, the biggest issue is choosing one that does not disturb the structural integrity of the home. A professional can be the best guide for choosing an HVAC system that fits best with your home’s structure. Here are the common types of HVAC units you can consider buying for your old home:
- Mini-Split HVAC System: This is best for ensuring minimum disruption as they do not require ductwork to be run throughout the house..
- Hot Water and Steam Radiators: These fit really well with the aesthetics of older homes, but come with some modern additions to ensure efficiency.
- Modernized Fireplace: Gas fireplaces can be efficient for heating one or two rooms, but are not necessarily an effective solution for an entire home.
- Modern Forced Air HVAC unit: This is known to work well with most old and historic homes. However, ductwork usually has to be run throughout the home.
While all of the above are possible options, in most cases when buying HVAC systems for older, historic homes, we recommend using a ductless mini-split HVAC unit, as it can work very well in keeping your rooms at optimal temperatures without disturbing the structural integrity of your home. With individual internal units installed in every room, you can also set the room temperatures for each room individually.
2. Ensure That the HVAC Unit Is the Right Size for Your Home
A common misconception among many people is that the most expensive HVAC units are the best. While this approach might work for other houses, for an old home, you need to ensure that the HVAC unit fits the size needs of your home. To find out the right size HVAC system for your home, it is always best to start by measuring the square footage of your living area. You can also call the experts from Galmiche & Sons to assist you in process of determining the right size.
The professional will examine the following things to suggest the best HVAC unit for your old home:
- Existing ductwork
- Square footage
- Age of home
- The layout of your home (current or future)
- Number of windows to assess direct sun exposure
3. Examine the Level of Insulation in Your Home
Before buying HVAC systems for your old house, it is important to take the time to examine how well the house is insulated as well. Most older homes have problems with drafts around fireplaces, attics, and also through the doors and windows. It is usually a good idea to get these areas sealed and weatherproofed to ensure the efficient operation of your HVAC unit. However, if you notice drafts or leaks, it is important to keep these in mind, as they will cause your HVAC system to work harder, often requiring a larger system.
Trust the HVAC Installation Experts at Galmiche And Sons
Installing or replacing an HVAC unit in your old home can be a major undertaking. Seek professional assistance from the heating and cooling experts at Galmiche & Sons in St. Louis to get the perfect HVAC solution for your old house. Contact us today at 314-993-1110 to schedule an appointment.
