A converted garage, a backyard office or a bonus room often ends up too hot in summer and too cold in winter. Running ducts from the main system is the obvious idea, and often the wrong one.
Why the main system usually isn't the answer
- It may not have capacity to spare for another room.
- Long duct runs to a far room lose a lot of heating and cooling on the way.
- One thermostat can't keep an office and the rest of the house comfortable at once.
Why ductless fits
A ductless heat pump has a small outdoor unit and a wall-mounted unit inside, joined by a small line set through the wall. It gives the room its own heating and cooling, its own controls, and runs only when you're using the room. Installation is usually quick, with no ductwork.
Things to plan for
- Insulation: garages often have little or none. Insulating first means a smaller, cheaper system.
- Electrical: the unit needs its own circuit.
- Permits: a conversion and the new equipment both need them. See does new HVAC need a permit.
For a whole ADU, see heating and cooling an ADU. For a free quote on new equipment, send us a message or call 805-965-6326.
Related
More tips on costs & permits, heat pumps.