Optimal Heating Options to Finish Your Basement

If you’ve decided to finish your basement, it can be exciting to think about how much fun you’re going to have using it once it’s done. However, if you plan to hang out in your finished basement during the winter, you’re going to need some source of heat. There are actually many different options on the market.

Tap Into Your Central Heating System

If your home already has a centralized heating system with ducting running throughout your home, you may want to consider tapping into it. Most of the ducting will be exposed in the basement, which makes it super simple to cut in registers and extend existing ducting.

However, you’ll want to consult an HVAC professional first. Your heating system is only recommended to heat so much space. If your basement is too big, it may cause an overload on your heating system. A heating professional can identify if your heating system can be tapped into successfully or if you’ll need to consider another heating option.

Ductless Mini-split

If you don’t have any ducting running throughout your home, you may want to consider installing a ductless mini-split system. This comprises wall-mounted units that are connected to an outdoor compressor unit via small piping.

It’s recommended to have a mini-split unit installed in each main room of your basement. A big benefit to this type of heating system is that you have zone control as each unit can be set to a different temperature. Additionally, you won’t have to worry about installing bulky ducting throughout your basement.

Pellet Stove

If you’re looking for a general heating option for a large and open basement, you may want to opt for a pellet stove. There are also wood-burning and coal-burning stoves that you can install. When running pellets, wood, or coal, you’ll need to refill the stove at least once a day. Also, this type of setup will require direct ventilation to the outdoors as the stove will emit carbon monoxide gas as it burns its fuel.

Radiant Heat

Radiant heat is becoming a new favorite of many homeowners. This type of heat is installed in the flooring of your basement. It usually comprises rubber panels with electrical wiring running through them. The wiring emits heat and warms up the floor of your basement. The heat will naturally rise up into your room and keep you warm while you’re enjoying time in your newly finished basement.

Space Heater

If you’re just looking for something to provide heat for a couple of hours while you’re hanging out in your basement, a space heater can be a great option. These heaters are fairly inexpensive and plug directly into your existing wall outlets. They can emit heat instantly to warm up the room whenever you go down to your basement.

However, it’s important to note that you shouldn’t rely on space heaters to consistently heat up your basement. Rather, they’re only intended to be run for an hour or two at a time. Space heaters are prone to overheating when they’re run for hours on end.

Wall Heater

Somewhat similar to a space heater, a wall heater also plugs directly into your existing receptacles. The main difference is that a wall unit doesn’t sit on the floor as a space heater does. Rather, it’s safe to mount onto one of your walls. These can come in some stylish designs, like a fireplace. The best part is that they produce instant heat once turned on.

Fireplace

If you have an existing chimney that isn’t hooked up to any heating components, you may want to consider building a fireplace. As long as the chimney is able to properly vent the harmful gases outside, you can enjoy the warmth of a traditional fire. If you don’t want to burn wood, you can always install a propane-fueled fireplace that won’t require any stoking.

Baseboards

If you’re looking for a heating system that is zone controllable and super easy to use, consider electric baseboards. You’ll simply need to have a baseboard installed in each room of your basement. There will be a thermostat connected to the heater that will allow you to easily change the room’s temperature. These electric baseboard heaters are hardwired to your electrical panel.

Reliable Heating Services

A To Z Dependable Services offers reliable heating services for the entire Niles, OH, area. We’re also here for all of your drain cleaning, cooling, water testing, excavating, septic tank, sewer, sump pump, and backwater valve services. Contact us today to set up your next service appointment.