Bathroom Renovation? Why You Need to Invest in an HVAC System

Are you ready to renovate your home's master bath? While a spa-like tub and frameless shower enclosure may top your list of Reno must-haves, these aren't the only things to consider. Before your bathroom remodel gets underway, take a look at what you need to know about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (or HVAC) issues.

Do You Need Heat in a Bathroom?

A steamy shower heats up a master bath. Does this mean you don't need HVAC ducts leading into this space? Even though a hot shower will provide temporary warmth, it won't heat the bathroom 24-7. An unheated bathroom is less than desirable for several reasons, including:

• The pipes could freeze . Without adequate insulation and heat, pipes can freeze in the chilly winter or early-spring weather. Whether you have a central system or a ductless option, a heated bathroom can stop a potential plumbing problem before it starts—especially if your pipes are on/near an exterior wall.
• You want added comfort . Do you want to step out of a steaming hot bathtub and into a cold bathroom space? A permanent heat source adds comfort to your remodeled master bath.
• You use the space for more than a shower . Even though the shower might keep the master bath steamy, your renovation project may only include a tub—or you may use the room for other activities. Whether you have a shower or not, a heat source keeps the room warm for every type of use.
• Resale options . Is your renovation part of the sales process? If you plan to sell your home, potential buyers may not want to invest in a property with a chilly master bath.

If the bathroom doesn't already have ducts, you have heating options. Talk to an HVAC specialist about the ways to add ductwork as part of the renovation or a ductless heating system.

Do You Need Air Conditioning in a Bathroom?

Like heat, cooling is part of interior home comfort. If your bathroom doesn't have ducts/vents or any other type of cooling system, you may need to add this option before starting the other renovations.

Why do you need an air conditioning source in a bathroom? Even though you won't spend the bulk of your day in this space, AC can help to:

• Reduce humidity levels . An air conditioner does more than just cool your home. This interior home comfort system also helps to reduce humidity levels. This AC function is important in all areas of the home—especially humidity-prone spaces, such as the bathroom.
• Ventilate the space . The fan in your bathroom can ventilate the area. But it's not the only way to increase the airflow. Properly installed HVAC ductwork can increase the overall ventilation of the bathroom space.
• Control comfort . While heat is crucial in the colder months, you'll want a way to cool down the bathroom in the summer. Your hot hairdryer, a steamy shower, or a warm day can all add unnecessary heat to this room.

Should you consider central cooling if you don't already have ductwork or a main unit? Again, you have options. The HVAC contractor can do more than install new ducts for heating. The ducts that carry warm air to the bathroom can also bring cold air there in the summer. If you want to both heat and cool the room, consider a new central system with duct additions. But if you don't want to invest in new ductwork, talk to the contractor about a ductless mini-split air conditioner.

Do you want to plan a new heating, ventilation, or air conditioning system for your bathroom renovation project? Contact Henry's Service All for more information.