Renovating is a great way for home and business owners to enlarge or improve their existing spaces. Unlike some types of property updates, like installing new flooring or putting in new windows, a major renovation done for the purpose of adding square footage will require careful planning to ensure that the new space can be easily heated and cooled. 

In most cases, the ability to efficiently heat and cool the newly renovated space may require existing ducts to be moved, lengthened, or even replaced. If you are planning a major renovation of your home or business, you can use the following information to help ensure that the new space will have the benefit of a well-planned HVAC duct system to properly heat and cool the space. 

Length and bend issues

Major home and business renovation projects often experience HVAC problems when the duct length is extended too far or the degree of curvature in the ducts begins to impede airflow. If the ducts are extended beyond the length advised for the existing HVAC system or there are too many sharp bends in the ducts, heated and cooled air cannot be efficiently delivered to the new spaces.

Before construction begins, property owners will need to consult an HVAC contractor to help them fully understand the limitations of their current system and find the right solution for their needs. Depending on the project, HVAC contractors may recommend upsizing existing HVAC components, converting to a dual unit system, or choosing to use a ductless HVAC option for the new space. 

Cold air returns 

Existing HVAC systems were designed to ensure that air pressure and movement would be adequate for the size and design of the structure where it was installed. When changes are made to a structure during a renovation project, the original HVAC system design will likely require changes, including the addition of more cold air returns. 

Properly sized and placed cold air returns are necessary for efficient heating and cooling because they help keep air pressure balanced and help control the movement of the air. These components continually return air from the space back into the HVAC system to be heated or cooled again so that temperatures can be more easily kept at the desired setting throughout the home or business. 

To learn more about common duct issues you may experience when renovating your home or business location, take time to discuss your situation with a reputable HVAC contractor as you plan your project.