A basement is ideal for a low-cost bedroom, workout space, kids' playroom, or family room. However, for a basement to be livable and comfortable, it requires air conditioning. Basements are usually warmer and more humid than other indoor spaces; thus, they have special cooling needs. Therefore, check out these tips for installing air conditioning in your basement.

Opt for a New Cooling Unit

When cooling a structural addition, you can extend the central air conditioner or install a new unit. Air conditioning systems are typically sized for the cooling load at the time of purchase. Therefore, your central AC may not have adequate capacity to accommodate your basement. If you extend your ductwork, you may experience cooling inefficiencies throughout the home. Therefore, install a new cooling unit in the basement.

A single-split or multi-split air conditioner would be suitable for basement cooling. Split units do not require ductwork—they use air handlers to supply cool air to indoor spaces. Installing an individual unit for the basement will offer better efficiency and control over the system. You will also avoid straining your central AC and reducing its efficiency. For maximum efficiency, ensure that the new unit is sized to the basement's cooling load.

Consider Zoning the AC

Do you have multiple rooms in your basement? If so, you should zone the space to promote efficient cooling. Indoor spaces have unique cooling needs, especially if different users occupy them. Zoning allows you to set your preferred temperatures in the various areas of the basement. You can zone your basement using a multi-split unit. Multi-split air conditioners have multiple air handlers. Each handler has its own thermostat, allowing you to control the air in different rooms in the basement.

Install a Dehumidifier

Basements usually have high humidity levels due to the lack of ventilation. High humidity can encourage mold growth and affect indoor comfort. Therefore, install a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air. Even though most air conditioners remove moisture from the air during cooling, they may be unable to handle the high humidity levels in the basement. A dedicated dehumidifier will effectively lower the humidity and eliminate the risk of mold growth in the basement.

Install an Exhaust Fan

Basements that don't have windows tend to accumulate pollutants, odors, and stale air. You need a ventilation system to remove the stale air and bring fresh air into the basement. An exhaust fan is an excellent choice for a basement with no windows. The fan ventilates the space and helps improve air circulation. By removing pollutants and stale air, an exhaust fan lowers the load on the AC, thereby boosting its efficiency.

You must evaluate the basement's cooling needs and choose the right AC for the space. Contact an air conditioning installation contractor for further consultation and installation services.