Central cooling worth installing in Tacoma?

Question

I'm house hacking a duplex in Tacoma, and like many homes in the area, it has central heating but not cooling. The summers seem to be getting hotter and there have been multiple miserably hot days in the house. I'm thinking that installing an HVAC or heat pump would be worth the cost in terms of comfort and resale value but am not sure. Anyone know if adding an HVAC or heat pump is worth it from an ROI perspective?

If I do it, I'll likely do it during the winter when there's better deals on AC units. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

If I do it, I'll likely do it during the winter when there's better deals on AC units. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Curtis Bidwell · Answer

@Blair Nye You're right, the Puget Sound region is the most underserved in the nation for AC!  But most new construction is including it now. I am doing major renovations on my C+ apartments and adding mini-splits with AC.  It will be a major draw to quality tenants and allow a significant rent premium which will add significantly to my overall value.

I vote "Yes".  Install AC if your able!

Adrian Chu · Answer

If you already have central heating, the cost of a heat pump is not that much more, and would definitely be a valuable selling point. If you needed to install new duct work, then I would not consider it.  Mini-splits are also more expensive, so it would need to be carefully considered.

Seth Borman · Answer

We also install mini splits into C class apartments in the Tacoma area. If I were you I would look into heat pumps as well. There are some great central air options.Generally the VRF units will have hyper heat and work below zero while older heat pump designs will need a heat strip or gas backup.

Blair Nye · Answer

@Adrian Chu That's great info! Thank you. The property in question does currently have central heating, so a heat pump might be the solution I'm looking for. I've read that heat pumps aren't as good in environments where it gets below freezing, but I don't think that's too much of a problem in Tacoma.

Blair Nye · Answer

@Curtis Bidwell Thank you for your feedback. That confirms my thoughts on the benefits of AC. I see that you were a guest on BP episode 95. I'm downloading it now! Have a great day.

Central cooling worth installing in Tacoma?

Most Popular Reply