Room heating options

[Sam Faas]

Hi all,

I have a SFH in Phoenix and we replaced the window AC unit just last year in one of the rooms. The tenant is now complaining that it is too cold in that room. There is no central heating as an option.

I am loathe to rip out the existing unit to replace with a heat pump, are there any other options I can provide the tenant?  This is for smallish room.

Thank you!

[Jeff Copeland]

First of all, it's worth noting that in most municipalities, you are required to provide heat for your tenants. As far as options:

1.  You can get window AC units that also have a heat strip, but frankly the heat strips aren't very reliable and often die long before the AC does.  

2. You can provide electric baseboard heaters that plug into regular 110V outlets. 

3. You can provide space heaters, but some types can pose a fire hazard. 

4. You could upgrade to a mini split system with heat, which often has the added benefit of allowing you to regain use of the window.