Hey folks, my wife and I live in a midcentury ranch house and are currently updating it. After having new windows installed and restoring the hardwood trim, we're considering our next project: installing ductwork since our home has very limited HVAC options. Right now, we only have a vent above the stove and radiant heat in the ceiling. Plus, we're in the wet Pacific Northwest, so we currently use a dehumidifier to keep mold at bay.
Our goal with ductwork is to have a comprehensive heating and cooling system, along with air filtration (very important because of our dogs and cats). I'm wondering if starting ductwork from scratch is reasonable. Would it be best to utilize the attic crawl space for installation? Also, what kind of heating or cooling solutions would be ideal? I've heard heat pumps are good. Considering we experience temperatures from the 30s to the 90s, I'm looking for advice on what systems to choose without breaking the bank. The house is a single story, about 1600 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Any insights would be super helpful!
3 Answers
I totally get your situation! I’m currently retrofitting a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) into my old cape cod home. I started the project when I was working on the attic and figured I might as well tackle the ductwork while I’m at it. My plan is to install ducts room by room, and I’m also adding floor vents to circulate air between the crawlspace and the main floor. It’s a lot of work but feels great to see it come together! Just be prepared for the hassle of finding space for the duct runs, and remember to think about the returns as well.
Installing new ductwork can be a daunting task, but if you're committed, it’s worth it! Just make sure you're also planning for returns to ensure proper airflow. From my experience, the hardest part is running those ducts without obstructing anything. Good luck with the project!
Honestly, you might want to consider mini-splits instead. They are way cheaper to install than a whole ductwork system and can provide effective heating and cooling for your bedroom and home office without the need to cool or heat the entire house all day. Just a thought!
Thanks for the suggestion! I'll definitely look into that option.
Totally agree! Planning your duct layout in advance can save you headaches later.