Is your furnace on its last leg?
Choosing where to put a new one can be tricky. Basements and attics are popular spots. But which is best for you? We’ll look at the good and bad of each.
If you’re torn between a basement or attic furnace, read on as we talk about these options.
About Basement Furnaces
Basement furnaces have been around for a long time. A lot of homes have them down there. It’s like the furnace’s natural home!
Basements are usually out of the way and most people don’t spend a lot of time there. That means your furnace can work without being a bother.
It’s also on the level where the family might hang out or do laundry, so it keeps those spaces cozy. Basements are commonly known for being cooler, too, which might be something the furnace likes.
Attic Furnace Functions
Attic furnaces are a different story. They’re kind of like the new kid on the block. These days, many new houses put furnaces up high in the attic.
It might seem odd to have a heating system way up there, but it’s getting more common. The attic is a space that most people don’t use for much. So, putting a furnace there can free up more room in your basement.
Plus, heat rises, right? Having a furnace in the attic means you can push that heat down to warm up the whole house.
Basement Furnace Pros
Let’s delve into the advantages of having a basement furnace. While the comfort and traditions of a basement setup are well-noted, there are specific benefits to consider. Below are some of these benefits.
Easier Accessibility
For one thing, having your furnace in the basement means it’s easier to get to for upkeep and repairs. When a technician comes to check on it or fix something, they won’t have to climb up into a hot attic.
Instead, they can simply walk downstairs. This can also be safer during bad weather conditions, which is a big plus for maintenance.
Reduced Noise Levels
Basements are great for keeping high noise levels out of your daily life. Since they’re below where you hang out, the sound of the furnace working isn’t as loud.
Think about it like having your noisy stuff in the basement. It just makes sense so it won’t interrupt your movie night or your sleep.
Consistent Temperature Control
Furnaces in the basement are great for making sure your house stays at a steady temperature. That’s because the heat goes up.
With the furnace downstairs, it warms up each level of your house as it rises. This means no cold toes in the morning!
Basement Furnace Cons
Keep in mind though that opting for a furnace in the basement isn’t without its drawbacks. Let’s explore some of the cons associated with basement furnaces.
Potential Flooding Risk
One of the significant risks of having a basement furnace is the potential for flooding. Basements are prone to water entry, whether from heavy rain, snowmelt, or plumbing leaks. If your furnace gets wet, it can be costly to repair or replace.
Space Consumption
Another disadvantage is that furnaces can take up quite a bit of room. If your basement isn’t very big, a furnace might use up space you could have used for something else, like storage or a home gym. Plus, it can make navigating around the basement more challenging.
Challenging Maintenance
While it’s usually simpler to reach a furnace in the basement when it’s repair time, sometimes the ductwork and other parts are harder to get to. This can make regular checks and fixes tougher, which might mean calling in a pro more often.
Attic Furnace Pros
Now, let’s shift our focus upwards and assess attic furnaces. While less traditional, there are several unique aspects to consider when installing a furnace in your attic. To learn more, be sure to get in touch with a residential furnace installation company.Â
Enhanced Space Utilization
Choosing an attic furnace often means better space utilization for your basement. This frees up space for other things you enjoy, like a hobby area, playroom, or extra storage. With the furnace gone, you can utilize the lower level for more than just equipment.
Heat Distribution Efficiency
Placing a furnace in the attic can be pretty smart when you think about how heat works. Heat naturally goes up, but with an attic setup, the heat gets pushed downwards through the house.
This means the heat can spread out well. This makes sure that the whole place feels warm without having to crank up the furnace too much.
Convenient for Additions
If you plan to build more rooms in your house, having a furnace in the attic can be a good move. It’s usually easier to connect new parts of your home to an attic system than to one in the basement. This can save you time and hassle when you expand your living space.
Attic Furnace Cons
While attic furnaces offer distinct advantages, they can also present some challenges. Before installing an attic furnace, consider the following potential drawbacks.
Increased Installation Cost
One big downside to an attic furnace is that it often costs more to put in than a basement one. Getting all the equipment up into the attic can be tough work, and sometimes you need special tools or extra help. This can make the whole job pricier.
Potential Leak Issues
Attic furnaces can sometimes lead to leaks. That’s because they’re close to your roof. If there’s a storm or the furnace’s pipes sweat, water might drip down and could damage the ceiling or the rooms below. This could end up costing you money to fix.
Difficult Maintenance Access
Another challenge with attic furnaces is that they’re harder to reach for service. To fix or check your furnace, someone will have to climb up into the attic. This can be extra hard in the winter or when it’s very hot out.
Basement vs Attic Furnace: Make the Right Choice Today
When it comes down to it, the choice between a basement and an attic furnace depends on your home’s needs and design. An attic furnace can save you space and might be easier to put in new homes.
Think about what matters most for your family like safety, costs, and how easy it is to get to the furnace for check-ups. Make a smart choice and stay cozy all year long.
Check out our other posts for more helpful guides and tips!
