Finishing or remodeling your basement is a great way to boost your home’s usable square footage and value. If you’ve decided to remodel, you’ve probably already thought about how you’ll use your updated basement, be it for a home office, theater room or extra bedroom. As with any remodel, decision-making goes beyond just functionality. The extra livable space you’ll gain in your basement also means additional square footage to decorate, maintain and condition. With all the decisions you need to make, choosing your heating and air-conditioning solution should be an easy one.
What are your options?
Your existing heating and air conditioning system most likely wasn’t sized to condition your basement, so there may not be enough capacity to handle the additional square footage. The option to replace your entire system means expensive equipment costs and the added expense of accommodating additional ductwork. Most basement ductwork installations mean reduced ceiling heights and extensive labor hours having to hide the bulky ductwork with drop-ceilings or soffits. Plus comfort is compromised in the main home space and basement as the system’s thermostat is typically in the upstairs hallway.
For basement remodels, the best course of action is often to add a mini-split system. With low energy costs, fast installation and little to no ductwork required, a Mitsubishi Electric mini-split system is a perfect cost-effective, minimally disruptive solution.
Mini-split systems from Mitsubishi Electric come in either ductless or ducted options and consist of an indoor unit and an outdoor condenser unit, connected by small refrigerant lines. Indoor ductless units come in a range of low-profile or recessed options, including wall-mounted, floor-mounted and ceiling cassettes. Our ducted options, which use short duct runs, include horizontal ducted units and multi-position air handlers.
Why is a mini-split right for you?
Ductless mini-split systems are up to 40 percent more efficient than conventional heating and air-conditioning systems. Our INVERTER-driven compressor technology, efficient fan operation and controls allow you to condition your space based on your schedule. The heating and air conditioning needs of a basement space are often lower in comparison to above ground spaces, making a variable capacity mini-split system ideal.
For instance, if you plan to use your basement in the evenings as a place to unwind, you can set your units to run at your desired temperature during the hours you need it. While you carry out the rest of your day, your basement units can continue to run but will only use the precise amount of energy necessary. Since the air-conditioning process has a dehumidification benefit, leaving them running, especially in Dry Mode, is a good strategy to help protect your belongings and leave a drier and more comfortable environment. If you want to use your basement for an extended period or want to turn its units off altogether, you also have that option. Even with routine use, there’s no energy-wasting on/off cycle happening throughout the day.
Some ductless mini-splits, such as our floor-mounted units, also feature rapid heat technology. With rapid heat technology, your basement can be at your ideal temperature in minutes. You have complete control, thanks to a variety of wired and wireless control options, including our kumo cloud® app for smart devices. Plus, our ductless mini-splits run at ultra-quiet sound levels, so you’ll never have to worry about noise disruption as you enjoy your basement space.
While there’s a lot to consider when finishing your basement, selecting a high-efficiency mini-split heating and air-conditioning system is one decision that’ll keep you comfortable in the long run.
