When it comes to owning property near a body of water, there are many unique challenges and requirements to keep in mind. If you’re looking into the gorgeous homes along Long Island Sound, from Darien to Greenwich, CT, real estate, it’s essential to remember that the Long Island Sound estuary is a mixture of salt and freshwater. Thus, you may encounter some challenges. One of the most important is the effect that saltwater can have on your home’s HVAC system.
If you’re a waterfront property owner in need of HVAC upgrades, there are five key areas to focus on. Read on to learn more!
The unique HVAC needs of waterfront properties
Waterfront properties face a host of HVAC challenges that aren’t present in other types of homes. The constant exposure to saltwater, humidity, and temperature changes can be particularly harsh on heating and cooling equipment. If you’re not careful, these conditions can lead to frequent breakdowns, high energy bills, and poor indoor air quality. That’s why it’s essential to have a plan in place to upgrade your HVAC system with these needs in mind.
The effects of saltwater on HVAC systems
One of the biggest challenges of living near the water is the corrosive effect of saltwater on certain types of equipment. HVAC units that aren’t designed to withstand these conditions can quickly become damaged and need costly repairs. To combat this, it’s crucial to invest in equipment that’s made with corrosion-resistant materials, such as aluminum condenser coils and evaporators.
Humidity and temperature challenges
High levels of humidity and frequent temperature changes can be common in waterfront properties. These conditions can cause your HVAC system to work harder than it should, leading to higher energy bills and wear and tear on your equipment. It’s essential to have the right HVAC solution that can maintain comfortable temperatures and humidity levels as efficiently as possible.
The importance of proper insulation
Lastly, adequate insulation is essential in waterfront properties to help keep moisture out of your home and maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Without proper insulation, your HVAC system may struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures, leading to higher energy bills and more frequent breakdowns.
So, how can we tackle these concerns?
Upgrade 1: Corrosion-resistant HVAC units
The first upgrade to consider is investing in corrosion-resistant HVAC units. These units are designed to withstand exposure to saltwater and humidity, making them ideal for waterfront properties. In addition to providing greater durability, corrosion-resistant units are also more energy-efficient, helping you save money on your energy bills over time.
Corrosion-resistant materials can help protect your equipment from harmful elements that can cause significant damage over time. Investing in this type of equipment can prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system and save you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
Top corrosion-resistant HVAC brands and treatments
When it comes to choosing a brand to invest in for corrosion-resistant HVAC systems, there are several options to consider. Some of the top brands in this space include Carrier, Daikin, and Mitsubishi Electric. Each of these brands offers unique benefits, so it’s important to do your research to determine which one is right for your property. These brands achieve corrosion resistance through a protective coating, like blue-coat, which uses an acrylic layer. Other coatings include Alucoat and E-coating, as well as Blygold polyurethane treatments. Another way to achieve corrosion resistance is through a copper-only condenser coil.
Upgrade 2: High-efficiency dehumidifiers
In addition to saltwater resistance, humidity is a major concern in waterfront properties. That’s why investing in high-efficiency dehumidifiers is essential. These units are specially designed to reduce the moisture levels in your home, helping to promote better indoor air quality and temperature control.
How dehumidifiers improve indoor air quality
Dehumidifiers work by removing excess moisture from the air, making it easier to maintain a consistent temperature and reduce the presence of allergens in your home. By lowering the humidity levels in your home, you can prevent the growth of mold and other harmful bacteria that can so easily thrive in damp environments.
Choosing the right dehumidifier for your property
There are many different types of dehumidifiers to choose from, depending on the size of your property and your specific needs. Some of the most popular types of dehumidifiers include portable, whole-house, and desiccant units. It’s important to consult with an HVAC professional to determine which type of dehumidifier is right for your property.
Upgrade 3: Ductless mini-split systems
Ductless mini-split systems are a smart choice for waterfront properties because they can provide heating and cooling capabilities directly into a room without the need for bulky ducts. These systems are also highly energy-efficient, making them an excellent choice for homeowners who want to save money on energy bills without sacrificing comfort.
The advantages of ductless systems for waterfront homes
Ductless mini-split systems are great for homeowners who want to customize their home’s heating and cooling needs. These systems allow you to control the temperature in individual rooms or zones, which means you can conserve energy by only heating or cooling the rooms you’re using.
Installation and maintenance considerations
Ductless mini-split systems require professional installation to ensure they’re set up correctly and working at maximum efficiency. Routine maintenance is also essential to keep your system running smoothly, so it’s important to work with an HVAC professional who can provide expert installation and ongoing maintenance services.
Upgrade 4: Smart thermostats
Smart thermostats are a popular upgrade for homeowners who want greater control and convenience over their home’s HVAC system. These thermostats can be controlled remotely, making it easy to adjust the temperature and humidity levels in your home from anywhere.
Energy savings and convenience
Smart thermostats are highly energy-efficient, as they allow you to control the temperature settings in your home with the click of a button on your phone. They’re also incredibly convenient, making it easy to adjust your home’s temperature and humidity levels without being physically present on your property.
Remote monitoring and control
By investing in a smart thermostat, you can keep an eye on your home’s HVAC system even when you’re away. Remote monitoring and control options allow you to adjust the temperature and humidity levels on the go, giving you peace of mind and greater control over your home’s indoor environment.
Upgrade 5: Professional HVAC maintenance
Finally, staying on top of regular HVAC maintenance is vital to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently. Professional maintenance services can help catch potential issues before they turn into major problems, saving you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
Regular maintenance services include filter replacement, system cleaning, and inspection of essential components to ensure everything is working optimally and efficiently. By investing in regular maintenance services, you can help prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system and enjoy greater indoor comfort and energy savings for years to come.
By investing in these five upgrades, you can create a more comfortable, energy-efficient, and durable environment for your family. Remember to consult with an HVAC professional to determine which upgrades are suitable for your property and schedule regular maintenance services to keep your system running smoothly for years to come.
*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash
