Ducted HVAC Installation

Completion Year: 2023

Project Overview

Installation of a ducted mini-split HVAC system in a 1970s home to address discomfort during summer heat waves and improve heating efficiency. The project included routing new ductwork in a finished home, adding bulkheads, and completing drywall repairs with a matching knockdown texture to maintain aesthetics.

Key Objectives

  • Provide effective cooling for summer heat waves, particularly in the bedrooms, which previously reached uncomfortable temperatures of 26°C or higher.
  • Improve heating efficiency to reduce energy costs.
  • Ensure the system operates quietly for undisturbed sleep.
  • Maintain the home’s aesthetics by keeping ducting hidden and bulkheads unobtrusive.

Scope of Work

  • System Design: Collaborated with HVAC contractors to tailor a solution featuring a central air handler and ducted mini-split system. Conducted research and reviewed specifications to meet noise, efficiency, and aesthetic requirements.
  • Ductwork: Designed routes to cover three upstairs bedrooms and an office with five duct runs. Worked closely with sheet metal trades to solve on-site challenges and minimize bulkheads.
  • Bulkheads: Framed and prepared bulkheads for drywall installation. Painted finished surfaces to blend with the existing interior.
  • Additional Components:
    • Added dampers post-installation to improve system balance.
    • Installed a Wi-Fi-enabled thermostat for remote control and programming.
  • Aesthetic Integration: Coordinated drywall repairs with a contractor skilled in knockdown finishes to ensure seamless patchwork.

Challenges and Solutions

  • Duct Routing: Navigated structural, plumbing, and electrical elements during installation, requiring flexibility and real-time troubleshooting. Explored routing options through trial openings and testing until optimal paths were identified.
  • System Design and Sourcing: Overcame the challenge of most installers offering only standardized mini-split systems with wall-mounted units. Researched extensively and consulted with multiple HVAC providers to identify a ducted system that met specific requirements.
  • Aesthetic Preservation: Minimized bulkheads downstairs to maintain the home’s visual appeal, balancing functional needs with design constraints.

Results

  • Comfort: The new system provides quiet, effective cooling in summer and efficient heating in winter, significantly improving the livability of the home.
  • Aesthetic Integrity: Careful design and execution preserved the home’s interior aesthetics while integrating modern HVAC functionality.
  • Energy Efficiency: Reduced heating costs with the high-efficiency system while maintaining year-round comfort.

Lessons Learned

  • Labor Efficiency: Combining this installation with a downstairs zone could have reduced future retrofitting challenges and saved on overall costs, though it was not feasible at the time.
  • System Design: A tailored ducted mini-split system requires thorough research and persistence, as most installers prefer standardized solutions. Future projects may benefit from early involvement of HVAC engineers for complex designs.

Complete Project

Build in Progress