Heating Your Basement

Whether you're looking to safeguard storage items from chilly winter temperatures or keep a finished basement toasty, here's what you need to know about basement heating.

Basement living room

By: Caroline Shannon-Karasik

If you require a sweater before setting foot into your home's basement, then it is necessary to consider how your living space might benefit from proper heating. There are many options for heating a basement, including using your existing HVAC or adding a fireplace, from gas to ventless.

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Before you decide the best option for heating your basement, consult an experienced contractor. He or she will be able to provide recommendations for the heating units that will work best for your situation.

If you choose to use your existing heating unit, then you will need to install ductwork and air ventilation that feeds off of the main heating source and into the basement. You can also consider installing a gas fireplace. A gas fireplace works optimally if a chimney is already available, but if your basement is not equipped with a chimney, then a ventless gas fireplace might be a good option.

Many homeowners also find success with heating a basement by using a radiant heater. Radiant heaters can be installed below the floor or along baseboards.

If you are seeking a budget-friendly option for providing basement heat, then consider space heaters that are easily plugged into a wall.

See also: HVAC Buying Guide

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