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More homeowners have invested in several home renovations to increase their property value in recent years. Unfortunately, despite the heavy investments, very few individuals witness profitable returns on their investments. The majority often see diminishing returns in their renovation projects because of choosing upgrades that don’t appeal to potential buyers.

Homeowners should be proactive with their renovations to undertake upgrades that increase the marketability and value of their homes. Heating and cooling upgrades are among the few renovations that assure a high return on investments. Below are important HVAC upgrades to include in your home renovation.

1. Install a HEPA Filter

Heating and cooling systems use an air filter to sieve outdoor air channeled into the indoor environment. HVAC air filters trap airborne contaminants, such as dust, mold spores, hair, and other particles that can affect indoor air purity. The filter also traps large particles that can damage the system.

Unfortunately, not all filters function equally. Filters are categorized according to their MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) scale, ranging from 1 to 20. However, you shouldn’t outrightly choose a filter with a high MERV scale. Filters with high MERV ratings can prevent air from passing through.

Most manufacturers recommend filters with MERV ratings of 5 to 10. If your indoor air quality is a priority because of allergies and respiratory issues, you should replace your unit filter with a HEPA filter. HEPA filters capture up to 99% of airborne particles. If your unit isn’t compatible with the HEPA filter, find other options for improving indoor air quality, such as using a whole-home air filter.

2. Install a Zoning System

Zoning is another crucial HVAC upgrade to consider when renovating your home. Zoning your heating and cooling system allows homeowners to regulate the temperatures of specific parts of their homes. This is the best way of eliminating hot and cold spots while concentrating HVAC energy usage on areas that are occupied.

Zoning reduces energy consumption since the unit won’t heat or cool unoccupied rooms. The system also uses less energy to cool or heat the occupied rooms. A Residential Variant Refrigerant Flow zoning system allows you to increase HVAC unit efficiency and property value.

3. Install a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats have gradually become a trending technology for homeowners for many reasons. Modern smart thermostats allow homeowners to regulate energy consumption and temperature from their smartphone apps. This upgrade is beneficial, as home appraisers currently include smart devices in their appraisal reports. Homes with smart thermostats can increase their value by 5%.

4. Install a Whole House Fan System

Relying on your air conditioner 24/7 can lead to extremely high energy bills. This is why most homeowners prefer scheduling their systems, activating them only when necessary. However, you can significantly lower your energy bills by intermittently using HVAC units with a whole house fan system.

These are powerful fans installed into the ceiling. In some weather conditions, whole house fan systems are reliable enough, especially when combined with other fans. These systems also expertly regulate indoor temperatures when combined with air conditioners. You can use the fan in the morning and evening and turn on the AC when it’s hottest or coldest.

Endnote

HVAC upgrades are an excellent way of improving property value and marketability during renovation. Homeowners with old systems (between 10 and 15 years) should consider total HVAC system replacement. While this can be an expensive undertaking, it has the biggest impact on your home equity.