Here’s How Your HVAC System is Impacted by Home Renovations

In addition to being mindful of things like hiring the right contractors, construction timelines, material choices, and design, there’s also one more thing you need to add to the list – the safety and effectiveness of your heating and cooling system.

What most homeowners aren’t aware of is that renovations on large scales can have a negative impact on everything from the air conditioner to the furnace.

Depending on the type of renovations, it could also mean needing to make changes to your appliances and infrastructure. Just how can your HVAC system become damaged, and what can you do to protect it? Here are some tips below:

Dust and Dirt

The sawing, hammering, and banging is sure to produce dirt and dust during the renovation. If these tiny particles find their way into your heating or cooling system, it could mean real trouble down the line.

As dust and debris make its way into the coils, blowers, vents, and other parts of the furnace, it can inhibit your system from producing proper air or heat when you need it.

• What to do:

  It is recommended that you try to use your HVAC system as little as possible during the renovation. You should also be sure to add layers of protection like plastic tarps or covers around the unit to keep debris out.

  Keep the vents closed if possible to keep dust from spreading through the house. Make sure that contractors working in your home are also doing their part to manage dust control by cleaning up along the way and using tarps to section off the working area.

Additional Square Footage

Thinking of adding more space to the home? Additional square footage can come in handy and also adds value to your home. However, this can cause an issue with your heating and cooling system. When determining the right sized HVAC system for the home, contractors use load capacity tests to ensure the unit will properly heat and cool the entire house. Adding more space ultimately changes the size of the home, and may also alter your heater or air conditioner’s ability to keep you comfortable.

• What to do:

  If you’re adding space to your property, whether it’s a new bedroom, mother-in-law suite, or otherwise, you should consult with a contractor that does HVAC service in San Diego or a major city near you.

  They can complete a load capacity test to determine whether your existing system is efficient enough for the additional square footage you’re adding on. If not, they can recommend replacing the entire system or getting an independent unit for the additional space.

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Vent Placement

If you’re changing the layout of your home, certain elements will have to be uprooted to make the space fitting. Tearing down walls to create an open concept view, adding walls or square footage to create additional rooms, and relocating appliances, furniture, and other elements in the home may result in the need to move or add more vents.

• What to do:

  Again, it’s advisable for homeowners to consult with HVAC technicians prior to starting their renovations. Showing them your plans gives them the opportunity to go over any restructuring that will need to happen. They will inspect the space and review blueprints to determine where vents need to be removed and/or added to maximize comfortability in the home on all levels.

There’s a lot that needs to be considered when remodeling your home, which is why it can be easy for homeowners to overlook the heating and cooling system. As you want your home to be just as aesthetically appealing as it is comfortable, it is imperative that you prepare for it all in advance.

If you’re doing major renovations like adding square footage or changing the layout of your home, remember to consult an HVAC professional in advance so they can determine the best course of action (and complete necessary work at the same time as renovations). Doing so will ensure that you, your family, and your property are safe and comfortable.

Image Credit: Pixabay

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