Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Adding air vents to basement from gas furnace

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: HVAC
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 14 Dec 2002
Time: 08:31 PM

Comments

You have an existing gas furnace and want to tap into your air stream to heat your basement. Depending on the volume of space you need to heat, your existing furnace may or may not be adequately sized to efficiently handle the added load. Generally, most furnaces can handle a minor remodel. However, depending on where you tap into the furnace's air flow, you may inadvertently upset the balance of heat in other parts of your home. I've seen this happen on many remodels, resulting in upset customers with cold feet! Generally, the best approach is to tie directly into the existing furnace output plenum with a new "home run" duct from the basement. Often, however, there's no additional space or the plenum area is cramped. We recommend that you consult with an HVAC specialist who can look at your exact requirements, coupled with a quick heating load calculation. This will determine whether you need a larger furnace, as well as the best way to tap into the existing air flow. Keep in mind that a return air duct is also a good idea, particularly if your basement is isolated from the rest of the home.

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