Cooling capacity should be determined by a contractor and be based on a load analysis using the air conditioning contractors of america manual j.
Attic heating and cooling options.
This option is ideal if the finished attic is small and will not be used as a permanent living space.
Well mainly it s a way to save space.
In dry climates an evaporative or swamp cooler is a common option.
The contractor might also use a computer program that accounts for the building s particular construction such as surface areas of exterior walls insulation levels window glazing and air infiltration.
Most updated central air conditioned homes have a new air conditioner split system meaning the ac is broken up into parts.
Install electric ventilators and attic fans which remove hot air from an attic.
Insulation at least r 38 or more is there for heating and.
Ridge vent must me installed per the manufactures instructions.
Ductless mini split system designed both for single room and multi room cooling and heating ductless mini split system is easily your best option if you are really looking for something that will enable you to enjoy consistent temperature comfort inside your renovated attic.
As with new homes those without air conditioning shouldn t need to worry about keeping the attic cooler.
The department of energy estimates that a properly insulated attic can shave 10 to 50 percent off your heating bill.
They have thermostats that turn the fan on at a recommended preset temperature of 100 110 degrees.
Using a separate portable heater and cooler for the budget conscious homeowner the cheapest method for cooling and heating the renovated attic is to plug in a portable system to be used for that room only.
With a fan and water soaked sponge or pad air is blown by the fan through the pad allowing the water cooled air to blow into.
To head off these problems consider these options for bringing your attic s temperature down.
It can do both.
A window air conditioning unit is also a good option for cooling an attic.
It s quick to install.
They re easy to install portable and can be removed for winter or cooler seasons.
And it works the opposite way for warm climates.
In summer it helps stabilize your house s indoor temps to keep cooling needs in check.
In very warm climates they will be effective as long as your attic space is properly insulated against the elements.
An outdoor unit which houses the fan condenser and compressor and an indoor unit which holds the evaporator and fan.
Best ventilation is open soffit venting to a open vented ridge vent.
Attic hvac systems save space.
One last thought attic ventilation is not there to get rid of heat it is there to get rid of excess moisture accumulating from the home.
Powered attic ventilators seem to be the one a lot of people want.