Install Central Air in an Old House The Right Way

Living in an older home doesn't mean you have to sweat it out every summer. If you follow the guidelines below, you can turn your one-of-a-kind older home into a contemporary oasis. Older homes have a unique charm and character that they don't make anymore.

You realize you are living in a special piece of architecture and you want to maintain its true authenticity. When considering adding a central air conditioner to an older house, there are unique factors to consider, especially if you want to be able to enjoy today's modern conveniences (such as central air conditioning) while still preserving the house's core integrity.

Before you hire a central air conditioner specialist, make sure that they have the proper certifications and always check references.

Understanding the Importance of Proper AC Sizing in Older Homes

It is essential to know what size of central AC to get. You don't want to install a central air conditioner that is so large it cycles on and off continually. Not only does this cause poor performance but it will also shorten the lifespan of the unit.

A large central AC is not always better. Large AC units cycle too often, so they don't run long enough to dehumidify the air inside your home. Dehumidification cannot occur until the air conditioner has been on for at least ten minutes.

The method most used to determine the right size of central air conditioner you will need is simply mathematical. First, multiply your home’s square footage by 25. Divide that by 12,000 and subtract .05. The other way to measure proper sizing for your central air conditioner is by using the air conditioning square footage range by the climate zone where you live.

If you in a climate that is mostly hot and humid, like Miami, you will want to purchase a central AC that can provide the maximum cooling comfort with a low-level humidity. Any reputable central air conditioner contractor can evaluate load estimation and proper sizing of a central AC system for your home. They will examine every single aspect of your home, including:

• The age of the house.
• If there is already ductwork.
• The area’s size.
• Lots of windows in your home.
• How well is your home insulated?
• Older windows and door jambs can cause drafts to enter the home.

You Don’t Need Ducts

The majority of older homes do not already contain ductwork. If this is the case in your old house, you will have to hire an expert contractor to add ducts to your home. This can be expensive too.

Adding ducts to your old house requires the demolition of walls and lowering your ceiling to make room for the ductwork. During all this, you will be doing everything you can to preserve the original beauty of your older home.

Or, you could install a mini-duct HVAC system instead of a traditional central air conditioner. These are cooling systems that push cool air through smaller ducts. These small ducts can be added to the walls and ceilings without having to demolish them. Mini-duct systems deliver cooled air through grilles that are smaller than on conventional central air conditioners.

What Will it Cost?

Your new central air conditioner will take into consideration the climate in your area, the condition of your home’s insulation, the labor, and equipment size.

Expect to pay about up to $5,000, depending on the size and complexity of the job. The complete installation will take approximately 2 to 5 days to complete.

The good news is that a properly installed central air conditioner will not only make your home more comfortable to live in, but it will also increase your property value.

If you are still not sure what size or what type of central air conditioner is right for your older home, contact the central air conditioner experts at Boutwell’s Air Masters in Pensacola, FL for honest recommendations and fair prices.