HVAC Solutions for Older Bay Area Homes

The Bay Area has many beautiful older homes—Victorians, Craftsmans, Eichlers, and mid-century ranches. HVAC in these homes presents unique challenges.

Common Challenges

No Existing Ductwork Many older homes have: - Radiant heating only - Wall heaters - No cooling system - No infrastructure for central air

Limited Space Older homes often lack: - Mechanical room space - Chase ways for ducts - Accessible attic space - Room for modern equipment

Historical Considerations Some homes have: - Preservation requirements - Architectural features to protect - Limited modification options

Outdated Electrical Older electrical systems may not support: - Modern heat pump demands - Additional circuits - Required capacity

HVAC Options for Older Homes

Ductless Mini-Splits **Best for:** Homes without ductwork

**Advantages:** - No ducts needed - Zone control - Heating and cooling - Efficient operation - Flexible placement

**Considerations:** - Indoor units are visible - Multiple units for whole house - Professional installation critical

High-Velocity Systems **Best for:** Homes where traditional ducts won't fit

**Advantages:** - Small, flexible ducts - Can snake through walls - Works with existing structure - Efficient air distribution

**Considerations:** - Higher initial cost - Specialized equipment - Requires trained installer

Hybrid Systems **Best for:** Homes with partial existing systems

**Advantages:** - Uses what exists - Supplements with new equipment - Can be phased in - Flexible approach

**Considerations:** - Complexity in design - Multiple systems to maintain

Special Considerations

Eichler Homes These iconic mid-century homes typically have: - Radiant floor heating (often failing) - No ductwork - Open floor plans - Slab construction

**Solutions:** - Ductless mini-splits work well - High-velocity systems possible - Heat pump as radiant replacement

Victorian Homes Characterized by: - Multiple stories - Complex room layouts - Aesthetic sensitivity - Potential historical status

**Solutions:** - Ductless systems hide impact - High-velocity ducts minimize intrusion - Zone by floor

Craftsman Bungalows Often have: - Basement or crawlspace - Attic space - More modification flexibility

**Solutions:** - Traditional ducted systems sometimes possible - Use basement/attic for equipment - Ductless for difficult areas

Efficiency in Older Homes

Insulation First Before investing in HVAC, address: - Attic insulation - Wall insulation (where possible) - Air sealing - Window weatherization

Right-Sizing Older homes often have: - Higher infiltration - Less insulation - Different load characteristics

Proper load calculations essential.

Budget Considerations

Expect higher costs for older home HVAC due to: - Specialized equipment - More complex installation - Possible electrical upgrades - Creative problem-solving