ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) are becoming increasingly popular. People are constructing these dwellings out of their garages or as separate structures on their land to generate an income from renting them out. Building an ADU may not take up much space, but it is not a simple project.
One of the most important considerations is how to best provide heating and cooling for the space. By law, every ADU must have a heating system; with summers often blistering in the area, air conditioning is an absolute must. Here are the most cost-efficient and effective options for HVAC in an ADU:
Central Splits
Installing a central split system may not be the most ideal choice for some ADU projects, such as garage conversions. In these situations, you would either have to expand the pre-existing ducting from the existing home into the garage or install new ducting and a new system, which would be very expensive and inefficient.
If you are constructing a large, multi-zone building, a central system could be the most effective option. Although a mini-split system is more energy efficient and less arduous, the initial cost of installing a multi-zone ductless system is not much different from that of a central system. Above all, a central system guarantees that all zones within the building are getting the correct airflow.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are the ideal option for Accessory Dwelling Units. They can provide heating and cooling to more extensive areas than wall units and do away with the need for a duct system, making them the perfect choice for garage conversions or locations where the space to install ductwork is limited.
They are also more energy efficient than a centralized system, which makes them cost-effective in the long run. While they are the favored choice for ADUs, they can become costly if you need multiple separate zones in your space.
A ductless mini-split system uses an exterior unit to draw in air which then passes through one or two vents, sometimes with additional side and back vents that require a foot or two of clearance from the wall. The air is heated or cooled and sent through a flexible tube to the interior unit, delivering it into the space.
To ensure proper airflow, units may need to be mounted on a platform to protect them from the elements and prevent sinking and shifting. All control is operated remotely.
Choosing the Best HVAC Option
Many people are familiar with the more traditional HVAC systems, which use both an interior and exterior unit and require metal ducts to be put in the walls and ceilings. The temperature is managed through the thermostats placed on the walls and wired into the electrical system. However, ductless mini-splits are much more compact and can quickly provide climate control to certain parts of the home or all parts of the dwelling in smaller dwellings.
Closing Thoughts
Selecting the right HVAC system for an ADU is critical and should not be taken lightly. Proper sizing and selection of the HVAC system are key factors in the success of the unit and its ability to provide safe and comfortable living conditions for the residents.
It is essential to consider all aspects of the installation, including the size of the house, the climate, existing ductwork, and energy efficiency requirements. By taking the time to consider all of these factors, homeowners can ensure their ADU is comfortable and energy efficient for years to come.
If you are interested in ductless mini-split air conditioning, turn to Always On Green Home. We are HVAC contractors with over 20 years of experience, guaranteeing a wonderful experience at a competitive price every time. Contact us!