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How to Install Modern Air Conditioning in an Older Home

Get Quick Air
14 Jan 2019
3 Min Read

Older homes have a great architecture design that makes them so appealing. Their attractive appearance and vintage beauty make them unique. The features that make older homes extraordinary, also make them trickier to install modern climate control systems. This is because most of these homes were never built with climate control in mind.

Majority of old homes require air conditioner service providers to build out walls and lower ceilings in order to fit the traditional central air conditioning systems. Fortunately, you can navigate these challenges and install modern air conditioning in an older home without doing away with the decades of charm and magnificent architectural design.

Let’s discuss what you have to do.

1. Use the correct air conditioning system

Most heritage homes lack ductwork and cavity spaces which makes it difficult to install a modern central air conditioning system. Some contractors may decide to run cables through conduits. While it helps in getting your A/C installed, it usually compromises the aesthetic value of your home. But you do not have to compromise the unique architecture of your old home.

The best option for such houses is to use a ductless air conditioner. Such an A/C uses wall-mounted indoor units and small space-saving tubings in place of the ductwork. With these, you won’t have to tamper with your ceiling decorations. Ductless air conditioner installations are energy efficient and they allow you to cool each room at a time. Besides they are quieter compared to a window air conditioner.

If your house has ducts, you can use central air conditioners. But first, you need to have the ducts inspected by a professional air conditioner service technician. There may be some modifications required for proper installation. Some of these may include sealing the ducts to improve energy efficiency, changing supply registers and increasing the size of the furnace blower.

2. Make your home energy efficient

Older homes have many energy efficiency flaws. A lot of heat gets lost through the loose doors and windows and the poorly insulated roof. You need to ensure your home is energy efficient during your air conditioner installation. This will reduce energy consumption and therefore cutting costs.

Proper air conditioner service can help you to line up your duct and insulate the ceiling space to prevent air from getting in and out. Draft guards can also be used to fix gaps at the bottom of your doors and window. This will prevent hot air from entering the house to keep your house cool during summer. Making your home airtight will enhance thermal performance and therefore improve energy efficiency.

3. Check the house power

Installing a modern air conditioner in an old home will require you to check on the electrical system of your house. Most heritage homes may have about 110-volt circuit and 60-amp power which may just be enough power for your home lighting and a few appliances. Adding an air conditioner that requires 230-volts and 50 amp may not be possible in such a case.

Always check your house power before deciding on the air conditioner you want to install. If the power is very low, you might consider doing an upgrade before an air conditioner service provider installs your A/C.

Conclusion

Installing modern air conditioning in an older home doesn’t have to be expensive. Following the tips above will help you fix the much-needed air conditioning system while preserving the beauty of your home. You should ensure an experienced air conditioning service provider handles your air conditioner installation.