Is $13,000 to install AC in basement and redo all basement ducts a fair price?
Project Details
I am purchasing a house that is approximately 130 years old from a flipper. They performed unlicensed HVAC work, installing a forced air furnace in the basement with flexible ducts, and the inspector noted restricted airflow in some rooms. The HVAC company confirmed the basement ductwork is insufficient and needs about three times the current airflow. They also mentioned that even with proper basement ducts, the system won't be perfect due to old in-wall ducts and a lack of second-floor returns, and that basement AC would primarily cool only the first floor. I am looking for alternative options, potentially combining basement AC for the first floor with mini-splits on the second floor to supplement heating and provide cooling. I am also interested in the general cost of updating in-wall ductwork. I would like to avoid cluttering the attic with ducts because I plan to finish it myself in the future, and I've observed that attic AC often makes the space uninhabitable. I'm wondering if the two staircases, especially a spiral one, could be utilized for easy air returns.
Quote Details
This option involves installing an AC unit in the basement and redoing all the existing ductwork in the basement. The company noted that the current basement ductwork is insufficient and needs approximately three times the current airflow. - Install AC unit in the basement - Redo all basement ductwork to increase airflow by approximately 3x - Expected outcome: Adequate heating, but AC will primarily cool only the first floor - Note: Existing in-wall ducts are old, and there are no returns on the second floor
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More Details
Category
HVAC
Price
$13,000
Quote Date
September 6, 2025
Home Size
2,200 sq ft
Year Built
1894
Fuel type
Electric
System type
Air conditioner
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