Many older homes in Massachusetts were built before central air conditioning and ducted heating systems became standard. These homes often feature radiators, baseboard heating, or outdated oil or gas furnaces, but lack the infrastructure for a forced-air HVAC system.
Installing new ductwork in a historic home can be invasive, costly, and may compromise the home’s original architecture. That’s why many homeowners are turning to mini-split systems—a ductless, energy-efficient solution that provides zoned heating and cooling without major renovations.
Considering an upgrade? Contact Lund Plumbing & Heating for expert mini-split installation in the Boston Metro area.
Why Mini-Splits Are a Great Fit for Older Homes
1. No Ductwork Required
Unlike central HVAC systems, which require extensive duct installation, mini-splits:
- Use small refrigerant lines instead of bulky ducts.
- Require only a small wall opening for installation.
- Preserve historic architecture by minimizing structural changes.
This makes them ideal for homes in areas like Cambridge, Belmont, and Arlington, where many residences are over 100 years old and were never designed for ductwork.
Related: Learn where to install mini-splits for maximum efficiency in older homes.
2. Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings
Older homes are notoriously inefficient when it comes to heating and cooling. Many rely on oil heat, outdated boilers, or inefficient window units, which lead to high energy bills.
Mini-splits offer:
- Up to 30% greater efficiency than traditional heating systems.
- Lower energy costs, especially in homes that still use oil or propane.
- Inverter technology, which adjusts output based on demand, reducing waste.
Fact: Homeowners in Lexington and Winchester have seen significant energy savings by switching from oil heat to high-efficiency mini-splits.
Related: Learn how mini-splits perform in extreme cold in Massachusetts winters.
3. Zoned Heating & Cooling for Drafty Homes
Older homes often have uneven heating and cooling due to single-zone radiator systems or poorly insulated rooms. Mini-splits:
- Allow individual temperature control in each room.
- Prevent hot and cold spots common in older homes.
- Improve comfort in hard-to-heat spaces like attics, basements, and additions.
This is particularly beneficial for large historic homes in cities like Newton and Brookline, where homeowners want to maintain traditional aesthetics while modernizing comfort.
Best Places to Install a Mini-Split in an Older Home
Mini-splits can be installed in nearly any room, but they work especially well in:
- Bedrooms – Great for custom climate control without affecting the entire house.
- Finished Attics & Basements – Many homes in Somerville and Medford have unfinished spaces where mini-splits provide efficient heating and cooling.
- Sunrooms & Additions – Ideal for three-season rooms or spaces with large windows.
Related: Learn how to choose the right mini-split for your home.
How Mini-Splits Can Increase Home Value
In Massachusetts’ competitive real estate market, energy-efficient upgrades boost property appeal. Installing a mini-split can:
- Increase resale value by up to $17,000.
- Make homes more attractive to buyers looking for energy-efficient features.
- Reduce heating & cooling costs, making the home more marketable.
Related: Learn how mini-splits impact home resale value
Lund Plumbing & Heating: Expert Mini-Split Installation for Older Homes
Lund Plumbing & Heating specializes in mini-split installation for older homes in the Boston Metro area. Our experienced technicians ensure:
- Seamless installation without compromising historic details.
- Energy-efficient systems tailored to your home’s needs.
- Professional zoning recommendations for ultimate comfort.
Call (781) 944-2222 or schedule a consultation today to upgrade your home with a mini-split system.
