How to Upgrade Heating & Cooling in Older and Century Homes in Ontario

Older homes in Ontario, especially century homes, are full of charm and character. However, their aging infrastructure often presents unique challenges regarding heating and cooling.

From drafty windows to outdated ductwork, these homes require special attention to ensure year-round comfort.

If you’re a proud owner of a century home, upgrading your HVAC system can make a difference. Here’s how to modernize your heating and cooling while preserving the integrity of your historic property.

HVAC Challenges in Older Homes

Inefficient Insulation: Many older homes were built before modern insulation standards, leading to heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This can strain your HVAC system, resulting in higher energy bills and uneven temperatures.

Outdated Ductwork: If your home has ductwork, it may be old, leaky, or improperly sized for modern HVAC systems. Leaky ducts can waste energy and reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling.

Limited Space: Century homes often lack the space for bulky HVAC equipment, making installations more challenging.

Preservation Concerns: Upgrading systems in a historic home requires careful planning to avoid damaging original features like plaster walls, hardwood floors, or intricate woodwork.

Solutions for Modern Comfort

Ductless Split Systems: Ductless split systems are an excellent option for older homes. They provide both heating and cooling without the need for extensive ductwork. These systems are compact, energy-efficient, and can be installed with minimal disruption to your home’s structure. Plus, they allow for zoned temperature control, so you can heat or cool only the rooms you’re using.

High-efficiency Furnaces and Boilers: If your home has an old furnace or boiler, upgrading to a high-efficiency model can significantly improve comfort and reduce energy costs. Modern units are designed to work seamlessly with older homes, and our team at Ashton Heating and Cooling can help you choose the right size and type for your needs.

AEROSEAL Duct Sealing: If your home has existing ductwork, AEROSEAL duct sealing can improve efficiency by sealing leaks inside. This innovative solution reduces energy waste, eliminates cold spots, and improves indoor air quality—all without tearing apart your walls or ceilings.

Smart Thermostats: A smart thermostat can help you manage your home’s temperature more efficiently. These devices learn your schedule and adjust settings automatically, ensuring optimal comfort while saving energy. Looking to buy a smart thermostat?

Improved Insulation: Enhancing your home’s insulation can significantly affect comfort. Consider adding insulation to your attic, walls, and basement, and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps around windows and doors.

Ready to Upgrade Your Century Home’s HVAC?

With over 15 years of experience serving the Durham Region and Kawarthas, we’ve helped countless homeowners upgrade their HVAC systems while preserving the charm of their century homes. Our highly skilled technicians will work with you to design a customized solution for your home and budget.

Contact us today for a no-cost, no-pressure consultation!