Converting a Garage to a Living Space

The past year has changed many lives, and people spent more time than ever in recent years locked down at home. With offices, restaurants, theaters, gyms, and other venues closed, quite a few have turned to converting their garage into either a place to work or a retreat where they can rest and relax. Some have added bedrooms; others, home theaters. And some have transformed their garage into the gym of their dreams. Whatever the goal and whatever the use, the one thing that remains the same is the need to heat and cool the room so that it’s ready for year-round use.

Ductless Systems Get it Done

Ductless HVAC systems are ideal for garage renovations. They are quick and easy to install and don’t require connecting the system to the existing ductwork. Moreover, installing a ductless system means that you can isolate the room for those times when it’s not in use. This can reduce your monthly utility bills and your ecological footprint.

Ductless systems are perfect for home offices, home gyms, home theaters, and even garage workspaces. Installing a ductless system helps ensure that the room is at the precise temperature you desire without having to adjust the temperature within the rest of the house. Moreover, because it’s isolated, you don’t have to worry about dust and debris entering your home’s existing HVAC network.

For home offices, gyms, etc., ductless systems allow you to adjust the temperature to your specific needs. Further, ductless mini-splits can be connected to your smart home network for enhanced control. Since most people don’t work (or work out!) seven days a week, this can be a significant advantage that saves money without sacrificing comfort.

Insulation Counts

Most garages are not well insulated, and it is crucial that the contractor hired to complete the renovation properly addresses this fact. If the room isn’t properly insulated and sealed, you will bleed money year after year as the room’s treated air seeps through the walls and windows. Whether you are transforming your garage into a home office or a home theater, always confirm that the insulation is up to the job.

Installing a Ductless System

Ductless systems are fairly straightforward to install. This doesn’t mean they’re easy, it just means that the steps aren’t overly complicated. A professional HVAC installer should always perform the installation because it does require the handling of refrigerant and electrical lines.

The system incorporates the use of an indoor and outdoor unit. The indoor unit should be placed about 6 feet up on a large wall where interior features won’t block it. Ideally, it should be in a position where it won’t be impacted by direct sunlight or other sources of heat.

The indoor unit is connected to the outdoor unit via the refrigerant line. This can be positioned on the wall or on the ground, but again, you want to position the outdoor unit where it won’t be in the way or subject to direct sunlight.

One of the best advantages of ductless mini-splits is that they are very low-maintenance. Regularly cleaning the filter, condenser coils, and other components takes just a few minutes but can add years to the anticipated life span of the unit.

We encourage you to contact National Heating and Air Conditioning at (513) 621-4620 for more information about the services we offer. Our team will tell you how we can make your remodel the most comfortable room in your home.