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Best Heating And Cooling Systems For Older Homes (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for an efficient way to regulate the temperature indoors while keeping your home intact, then it’s important to consider investing in a heating and cooling system that is designed for older homes. Many homeowners may believe that their older homes make them ineligible for modern heating and cooling systems, which isn’t true. With the advancements made in technology, there are now several options available to ensure that you can keep your home properly heated and cooled.

Before investing in any heating and cooling systems for older homes, there are several important factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to evaluate your existing systems and determine if they need to be updated or replaced. Additionally, consider the size and layout of your home, as it can impact your energy efficiency and costs. You should also evaluate your budget, as some systems may require more investment upfront and provide a return on investment over time.

Do you often find yourself shivering in the winter and sweating in the summer? Want to improve the comfort levels of your beloved older home? Need to save money on energy bills? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then investing in a heating and cooling system designed for older homes may be the answer. By taking the time to research and evaluate your options, you will be able to find the right system that best suits your needs and budget.

10 Best Heating And Cooling Systems For Older Homes

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for heating and cooling smaller spaces efficiently with its ductless mini-split design and high energy-saving SEER rating.
2
The product is ideal for providing fresh air intake, stale air exhaust, and heating/cooling recapture in a single room.
3
The product is ideal for providing both heating and cooling in a room without ductwork.
4
The product is ideal for providing both heating and cooling in a dual zone setup for residential or commercial spaces.
5
The product is ideal for providing heating and cooling to a room using a packaged terminal air conditioner with a heat pump.
6
The product is ideal for cooling and heating large spaces efficiently, with energy-saving features and multiple installation options.
7
This product is ideal for efficiently heating and cooling a home with a reliable heat pump system and multi-position air handler.
8
This product is ideal for temperature control on a mattress, enhancing sleep quality, and offers wireless remote integration.
9
The product is ideal for cooling and heating small spaces in homes or offices with the added convenience of voice control.
10
Product is ideal for cooling small to medium sized homes and offices efficiently with low running costs.
Ideal for heating and cooling smaller spaces efficiently with its ductless mini-split design and high energy-saving SEER rating.
The product is ideal for providing fresh air intake, stale air exhaust, and heating/cooling recapture in a single room.
The product is ideal for providing both heating and cooling in a room without ductwork.
The product is ideal for providing both heating and cooling in a dual zone setup for residential or commercial spaces.
The product is ideal for providing heating and cooling to a room using a packaged terminal air conditioner with a heat pump.
The product is ideal for cooling and heating large spaces efficiently, with energy-saving features and multiple installation options.
This product is ideal for efficiently heating and cooling a home with a reliable heat pump system and multi-position air handler.
This product is ideal for temperature control on a mattress, enhancing sleep quality, and offers wireless remote integration.
The product is ideal for cooling and heating small spaces in homes or offices with the added convenience of voice control.
Product is ideal for cooling small to medium sized homes and offices efficiently with low running costs.

1. Cooper & Hunter Mia Mini-Split Heat Pump

The Cooper&Hunter Mia Series 9,000 BTU 20.5 SEER, 21.5 SEER2 110V Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner Heat Pump is a reliable and efficient system that is UL Listed and AHRI Certified. It is capable of heating with an ambient temperature of up to 5°F. The system comes pre-charged with refrigerant and includes an Installation Kit that consists of a 16ft pre-flared and insulated copper line set, 16ft communication wires between the indoor and outdoor units, small accessories, and a 16ft drainage extension.

This mini split air conditioner heat pump is perfect for bedrooms, additions, living rooms, and commercial applications due to its Whisper Technology that ensures quiet operation. It is not a DIY equipment, and professional installation is required. The system is WiFi ready, but an additional USB adapter is required to enable this feature. Please note that the USB adapter is not included in the package.

The Cooper&Hunter Mia Series offers a 7-year warranty on the compressor and a 5-year parts warranty, providing you with a peace of mind for many years to come.

Pros

  • UL Listed and AHRI Certified
  • Pre-charged with refrigerant
  • Whisper Technology ensures quiet operation
  • Ideal for various applications
  • 7-year warranty on the compressor and 5-year parts warranty provide peace of mind

Cons

  • – Professional installation is required
  • – Additional USB adapter required for WiFi feature (not included in package)

2. Twinfresh Comfo – Energy Recovery Ventilator

The Twinfresh Comfo features a reversible DC motor with a rectifier for AC power supply applications, consuming only 4.5 watts. It is Energy Star qualified with an efficacy of 2.14 CFM per watt, which is twice as high as the Energy Star requirements. The unit comes with MERV 5 filtration as standard and has the potential to add a MERV 14 filtration. The outer hood is made of stainless steel and has a powered finish, making it corrosion-proof and suitable for almost any exterior. The unit has very quiet operation, producing only 0.3 to 0.6 sones during operation, which is quieter than most refrigerators. The Twinfresh Comfo has two airflow modes: extract/supply mode with up to 30 CFM and regeneration mode with up to 15 CFM. The ceramic ERV core used in regeneration mode provides up to 88% recovery efficiency. In regeneration mode, supply and exhaust cycles every 70 seconds at a 30 CFM rate in one direction, which results in a negligible amount of pressure gain or loss. The Twinfresh Comfo can be installed in a wall with a thickness of 4-3/4" minimum to 16" maximum.

Pros

  • Energy Star qualified with high efficacy
  • MERV 5 filtration with the potential of MERV 14 add-on
  • Stainless steel outer hood which is corrosion-proof
  • Very quiet operation
  • Two airflow modes with high recovery efficiency
  • Negligible amount of pressure gain or loss
  • Wide range of wall thickness for installation

3. Olmo Mini Split: Easy Heating And Cooling.

The OLMO Alpic 9,000 BTU, 110/120V Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner is a perfect solution for cooling and heating your home or commercial space throughout the year. This air conditioner comes with Inverter Technology and a 16.5 SEER rating, making it an efficient and energy-saving option. It is also equipped with an Inverter Compressor by Toshiba, which comes with a 5-year limited warranty.

The air conditioner operates quietly, making it an excellent choice for use in bedrooms, living rooms, and additions. The LED display shows the temperature and other settings, making it easy to operate. The self-diagnosis feature helps to identify any issues with the unit, making it easy to fix. Additionally, the intelligent defrost and pre-heating features ensure that the unit operates smoothly and efficiently.

The OLMO Alpic air conditioner comes with a 16ft copper line set, communication wires, drainage extension, and small accessories, making it ready for installation. However, it is important to note that a licensed HVAC technician is required to perform the installation. The air conditioner comes with a 2-year limited warranty on parts, providing peace of mind in case of any issues.

Pros

  • Efficient and energy-saving with Inverter Technology and 16.5 SEER rating
  • Inverter Compressor by Toshiba comes with a 5-year limited warranty
  • Quiet operation makes it suitable for use in bedrooms, living rooms, and additions
  • LED display and self-diagnosis features make it easy to operate
  • Intelligent defrost and pre-heating features ensure smooth and efficient operation
  • Comes with a 16ft copper line set, communication wires, drainage extension, and small accessories, making it ready for installation

Cons

  • – A licensed HVAC technician is required to perform the installation

4. Olivia Dual Zone Mini Split Hvac System.

Introducing the latest model of Cooper&Hunter's Olivia Series, the 18,000 BTU Multi Zone Outdoor Condenser with (2) Wall Mount Air Handlers is now available in the market for 2022 release. With a high energy efficiency rating of 22.5 SEER, this unit uses 208-230V power and is ETL Intertek approved and AHRI certified.

This equipment is perfect for heating with ambient temperature up to -13F°. It comes with two installation kits that include 16ft pre-flared and insulated copper line sets, communication wires, small accessories, and a drainage extension. Please note that professional installation is required and this is not a DIY equipment.

The Cooper&Hunter Olivia Series is a smart investment, as you will be well protected by a 7-year warranty on the compressor and a 5-year parts warranty. In case you need assistance, experienced technicians based in the U.S. are available to help. Warranty registration is required.

Pros

  • High energy efficiency rating of 22.5 SEER
  • Suitable for heating with ambient temperature up to -13F°
  • Comes with two installation kits including copper line sets, communication wires, accessories, and drainage extension
  • 7-year warranty on compressor and 5-year parts warranty
  • Experienced technicians based in the U.S. are available for assistance

Cons

  • – Professional installation is required

5. Cooper & Hunter Pthp With Electric Cord

The Cooper&Hunter Packaged Terminal Unit Heat Pump with Cooling and Electric Heater is an excellent choice for residential, commercial, or hotel use. With 12,000 BTUs, this unit is capable of both cooling and dehumidifying a space. It comes pre-charged with R-410A refrigerant and includes a 6.5' power cord for easy installation. The unit is standard sized at 42 inches in width, 21 inches in depth, and 16 inches in height, making it simple to replace an existing PTAC while using the same wall sleeve and grille. It does not include a remote controller, grille, or installation sleeve, which are sold separately. The compressor comes with a 7-year limited warranty, while parts have a 5-year limited warranty.

Pros

  • Capable of both cooling and dehumidifying a space
  • Pre-charged with R-410A refrigerant
  • Includes a 6.5' power cord for easy installation
  • Standard size allows for easy replacement of an existing PTAC
  • Compressor comes with a 7-year limited warranty

Cons

  • – Remote controller, grille, and installation sleeve are sold separately

6. Goodman 3.5 Ton 15 Seer Heat Pump System With Multi Position Air Handler

Get the perfect temperature with this Goodman 3.5 Ton 14 SEER Heat Pump and Air Handler with Thermal Expansion Valve (TXV). This set is designed for a 3.5-5 ton R-410a to provide you with efficient heating and cooling all year round. The heat pump has a 14 SEER rating and uses an eco-friendly refrigerant to keep your energy bill low. The multi-position air handler ensures that the air is evenly distributed throughout your home, giving you maximum comfort.

This set comes with a 10-year parts limited warranty provided that it is installed by a qualified installer and registered online. Please note that accessories such as Linesets, thermostats, and LP conversion kits are sold separately.

Invest in this reliable and efficient heat pump and air handler set to keep your home comfortable and cozy all year round.

Pros

  • Efficient heating and cooling with a 14 SEER rating
  • Eco-friendly refrigerant for lower energy bills
  • Multi-position air handler for even distribution of air
  • Comes with a 10-year parts limited warranty

Cons

  • – Accessories such as Linesets, thermostats, and LP conversion kits are sold separately

7. Chilicube: Personalized, Remote-Controlled Sleep System

Experience a comfortable and restorative sleep with the innovative Cube Cooling Mattress Pad. Utilizing an adjustable, water-based system, this pad actively circulates water through silicone micro-tubes to regulate the surface temperature of your existing mattress. The result is a cooler sleeping environment that helps you achieve the deep sleep you need to feel rested and restored. The pad also features a Cool Mesh side for maximum cooling effect and a quilted cotton-blend side for cool comfort.

Whether you prefer a single or dual zone pad, the Cube Cooling Mattress Pad has got you covered. The WE pad provides the ability to temperature regulate each side independently, while the ME pad can be used on split adjustable beds. With the wireless remote, you can set a precise sleep temperature without having to get out of bed. The pad connector can be placed at either end of your mattress to accommodate multiple bed frame styles, power source locations, and control unit access. Plus, the cooling mattress pad is 100% machine washable and dryable for easy maintenance.

Pros

  • Adjustable, water-based system actively circulates water through silicone micro-tubes for a more comfortable sleeping environment
  • Cool Mesh side provides maximum cooling effect, while the quilted cotton-blend side produces cool comfort
  • Single and dual zone options available to temperature regulate each side independently
  • Wireless remote allows for easy temperature control without having to get out of bed
  • Pad connector can be placed at either end of your mattress to accommodate multiple bed frame styles, power source locations, and control unit access
  • 100% machine washable and dryable for easy maintenance

Cons

  • – May be more expensive than traditional cooling pads

8. Senville Leto Mini Split With Alexa

The Senville 4-in-1 mini split system is an Alexa-enabled air conditioner that offers convenient control from anywhere via voice or app. This system has a built-in heat pump (up to 5F/-15C), dehumidifier, fan, and turbo function. It is DC Inverter, UL Listed, and AHRI Certified. With energy savings of up to 40%, the system lets you use routines to adjust temperature settings while you are away.

The Senville mini split system is designed for both home and business use. It offers powerful performance and dependable durability with a high-quality design that gives an attractive appearance. It is great for bedrooms, additions, living rooms, and even commercial applications like stores, restaurants, and warehouses.

The system comes with an indoor air handler, outdoor condensers, remote control, and installation kit with a 16ft line set and communication wire. The system is pre-charged with R410A refrigerant for up to 25ft. It is important to note that the system requires professional installation.

The Senville mini split system is backed by an industry-leading manufacturer’s warranty that covers 5 years on parts replacement and 5 years on the compressor. Trustworthy quality and design by Senville, with free technical and installation support included.

Pros

  • Alexa-enabled for convenient voice or app control from anywhere
  • 4-in-1 system with air conditioning, heat pump, dehumidifier, fan, and turbo function
  • Powerful performance and dependable durability with high-quality design
  • Ideal for both home and business use
  • Comes with a 5-year warranty on parts replacement and compressor

Cons

  • – Requires professional installation

9. 3 Ton Goodman 14 Seer R410a Air Conditioner Split System

Looking for an affordable complete AC unit bundle? The Goodman GSX14 series is an excellent choice. This split system has a 3-ton air conditioning capacity which can efficiently cool an entire house with an area ranging from 1500-2100 sq ft. The air flow works both up and down, making it perfect for your home's cooling needs. The ARUF series of air handler and blower included in this bundle ensures long-term efficiency.

Please note that this is an AC unit only and not a heat pump. However, you can pair it with a heat kit for occasional use. It's entirely electric, so you don't have to worry about any additional gas kit or equipment. The condensers come pre-charged for up to a 15ft line-set, making installation easy and convenient. We offer a complete 10-year warranty for our customers' peace of mind. If installed by a qualified technician according to local code, we provide the best technical support.

Pros

  • Affordable complete AC unit bundle
  • Efficiently cools an entire house with an area ranging from 1500-2100 sq ft
  • Air flow works both up and down
  • ARUF series of air handler and blower ensures long-term efficiency
  • Entirely electric, making installation easy and convenient
  • Comes with a 10-year warranty

Cons

  • – Not a heat pump, but can be paired with a heat kit for occasional use

Best Heating And Cooling Systems For Older Homes FAQs

How can I incorporate modern HVAC technology into my older home without compromising its historical integrity?

As a homeowner with an older property, you may be wondering how to bring modern HVAC technology into your home without sacrificing its historical integrity. The good news is that there are several options available to you.

One option is to install a ductless mini-split system. This type of system doesn't require ductwork, which means you won't have to make any major structural changes to your home. Additionally, mini-splits are energy-efficient and can be controlled independently in each room, which can save you money on your energy bills.

Another option is to install a high-velocity HVAC system. This type of system uses small, flexible ducts that can be easily installed in older homes without damaging the existing structure. High-velocity systems also provide excellent air distribution and can be combined with other HVAC technologies, such as air purifiers and humidifiers.

If you're concerned about aesthetics, you can also opt for a concealed HVAC system. These systems are designed to blend seamlessly into your home's decor, with components hidden behind walls or in ceilings.

Ultimately, the best way to incorporate modern HVAC technology into your older home will depend on your specific needs and budget. Consulting with a professional HVAC contractor can help you choose the right system for your home, while preserving its historical integrity.

How can I make my older home more energy-efficient when it comes to heating and cooling?

There are several ways to make an older home more energy-efficient when it comes to heating and cooling. One effective method is to ensure proper insulation. Older homes are often not well-insulated, causing air leaks and energy loss. Adding insulation to walls, attics, and floors can help to reduce energy usage and save money on heating and cooling bills.

Another way to improve energy-efficiency is to upgrade windows and doors. Older windows and doors may not seal properly, allowing air to leak in and out of the home. By upgrading to new, energy-efficient windows and doors, homeowners can improve insulation and reduce energy usage.

Additionally, homeowners can consider upgrading to a more efficient heating and cooling system. Older systems may be less efficient and use more energy to heat and cool the home. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient system can result in significant cost savings over time.

Finally, implementing simple energy-saving habits, such as adjusting the thermostat when no one is home and using energy-efficient light bulbs, can also help to reduce energy usage and make an older home more energy-efficient.

What are the costs associated with upgrading the heating and cooling systems in an older home, and how can I budget accordingly?

Upgrading the heating and cooling systems in an older home can be a wise investment, as it can significantly improve the comfort and energy efficiency of the property. However, it is important to budget accordingly for this project, as the costs can vary depending on various factors.

One of the main costs associated with upgrading the heating and cooling systems in an older home is the equipment itself. This can include the furnace, air conditioner, ductwork, and other components. The cost of these items can vary depending on the size and efficiency of the system, as well as the brand and model chosen.

Another cost to consider is installation. Depending on the complexity of the project, installation costs can vary. It is important to choose a reputable installer who can provide a detailed estimate of the work involved.

Other potential costs to consider include permits, inspections, and any necessary upgrades to the electrical or plumbing systems.

To budget for these costs, it is important to research the various options available and obtain multiple quotes from reputable contractors. It may also be helpful to set aside a contingency fund in case of any unexpected expenses that may arise during the project.

What are the most common challenges older homes face when it comes to heating and cooling, and how can these be addressed?

There are several challenges that older homes face when it comes to heating and cooling. One of the most common challenges is poor insulation, which can lead to significant heat loss during the winter months and make it difficult to keep the home cool during the summer. This problem can be addressed by installing new insulation in the walls, attic, and floors.

Another challenge is outdated HVAC systems, which can be inefficient and costly to operate. Upgrading to a modern heating and cooling system can help to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs. Additionally, older homes may have inefficient windows and doors that allow drafts and air leaks. Replacing these with newer, energy-efficient models can help to improve indoor comfort and reduce energy bills.

Finally, many older homes were not designed with modern heating and cooling needs in mind, and may lack ductwork or ventilation systems. Installing a ductless mini-split system can be an effective solution for heating and cooling individual rooms or zones without the need for ductwork. Overall, addressing these common challenges can help to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of older homes.

What are the most effective heating and cooling systems for older homes?

When it comes to heating and cooling older homes, there are several effective systems to consider. One option is a high-efficiency boiler, which can provide both heat and hot water. These boilers are compact and can be installed in small spaces, making them ideal for older homes with limited space. Another option is a ductless mini-split system, which can provide both heating and cooling without the need for ductwork. These systems are also energy efficient and can be easily installed in older homes. Additionally, a heat pump can be effective for heating and cooling older homes. They work by transferring heat from one area to another and can be a cost-effective solution for homeowners. Ultimately, the best heating and cooling system for an older home will depend on the specific needs and layout of the house. It's important to work with a professional HVAC contractor to determine the best option for your home.

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