How to cool a house with Basement

[gzusgeek]

Hey Guys,

I have a 2100 sf house with equal size walk out basement. My system is very old and on the brink of failure. Before I go and get estimates to replace my existing system, I need a little education in what is the best way to heat/cool both the main house and basement.

I currently have vents between the main house and basement so air circulation is possible. Can one system service the whole house / basement? Would I just put the return air in the basement?

I just need some basic info so when I go to get estimates, I know what my options are.

Many thanks!
Joey Grissom

:)

[Cold Feet]

A single system can serve multiple floors. You must have ducting on each floor and the airflow into each floor must be very well balanced to avoid unacceptable temperature differences between floors.

Floor-by-floor zoning is strongly recommended.

[teddy bear]

Suggest a properly sized supply/return duct system with balancing dampers for both floors. the basement will have a very small sensible cooling load with a large latent load. Include ductable dehumidifier like Ultra-Aire for real temp/humidity control of the basement/mainfloor. The UA also provides an option for fresh during the calm summer weather when home stop breathing. The dehu can provide mixing of the basement air and house while maintaining %RH throughout. Regards, TB

[dandyme]

I'm unclear as to, are you conditioning both areas now with one system?

if not you gonna need new duct work to accommodate the larger replacement

if you are then you're golden.

preferably two systems for two floors............if one takes a dump, you've still got a conditioned area.

[gzusgeek]

I currently have heat pump for upstairs and a ductless split system in the basement. Both are on the brink of destruction! :o)

No duct work in the basement. Where does the return air go?

Many thanks!!
Joey

[dandyme]

the air goes back to air handler





return duct-

on both floors

code will dictate minimum number of returns

contractor/homeowner/space availability will dictate where

[gzusgeek]

Thanks for all the info...I think this is just what I needed to know.

Blessings!

[dan sw fl]

I currently have heat pump for upstairs and a ductless split system in the basement. Both are on the brink of destruction! :o)

No duct work in the basement. Where does the return air go?

Many thanks!!
Joey

BASEMENT in Concord NC NEEDS a DEHUMIDIFIER ! !!

With significant shoulder ( spring & fall) seasons and high dew points and Very high outside RH during summer eves and nights ... pay attention to TeddyBear. Control basement RH !