Homeowners have come to realize the importance of their basements. Many people have converted their basements into more productive spaces such as wine cellars, game rooms, libraries, home gyms, or extra storage. Consequently, the basement creates more space for the house but is notorious for being the coldest space in the home.
If you spend a lot of time in your basement, you may need to consider cost-effective and efficient heating options for warming it up. With the chilly winter temperatures looming in, heating the basement may have become a top priority. To ensure your basement is warm, cozy, and toasty, consider one of the following options.
1. Electric or Portable Space Heater
Electric or portable space heaters have a low upfront cost, making them easily accessible. They work perfectly for small spaces by providing quick and convenient heating options. These space heaters come in a wide range of types and styles, giving you the chance to settle for one that meets your specific needs. They are cost-effective, with prices going as low as $40 for a unit meeting your basement heating needs.
Electric and portable space heaters are not usually convenient for larger spaces, which can be costlier to operate in the long run. Therefore, you need to consider your basement space before settling for a portable space heater. Take time to calculate how much it will cost to run the unit, depending on how much you pay for electricity within your area. After doing some calculating, it becomes easier to decide whether they are a viable heating source for your basement.
2. Radiant Heating
Radiant heating involves the installation of panels on the floors and walls. Radiant floor heating may be electric or hydronic, depending on your preference. The installation for electric radiant floor heating can be done at any time. A professional can install radiant heat for you if you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself. Hydronic radiant floor heating has a higher upfront cost but is less costly to operate in the long run. The best time to install the hydronic radiant heating option is during construction since you can save more.
3. Baseboard Heaters
Baseboard heaters may have an attractive price tag, but they provide a limited perimeter heating option. They are more effective in smaller rooms since you can sequester heat in areas you want. You also control the heat with a thermostat and can shut it off when you want.
A major con with this heating option is that it takes up a lot of space. Thereby, it limits the amount of space you can use in your basement. If you have children or pets around, you need to be cautious when using a baseboard heater alternative. They can quickly get into contact with its hot surfaces.
4. Extend Ductwork
You don’t have to run new ductwork when heating your basement. Most homes have existing ductwork for a heating system, making it easier to extend it to the basement area. You can extend your ductwork to heat the basement with additional vents. The process may seem easy, but it calls for a professional to calculate the heating load and size to determine whether your system can support the extra load.
5. Install a Ductless Mini-Split
A ductless mini-split may have an expensive upfront cost, but it’s among the best heating options for your basement. It is worth considering a ductless mini-split if you have a large basement and want to keep it toasty throughout. Ductless mini-splits come with an air handler connected to a heat pump outside.
The thermal energy coming from outside is amplified and sent into the home. You can measure the room’s temperature using the air handler’s thermostat, allowing you to maintain desired temperatures in your basement. You need to consult professionals for an efficient ductless mini-split installation to enjoy optimal results.
If you are within Central Pennsylvania or Northern Maryland, get in touch with HB Home Service Team for a flawless installation process. We offer a full range of heating services, as well as cooling, plumbing, and fuel delivery services. Contact us today!