How to heat a downstairs den

Question

Hey guys,

I've recently purchased a property with a downstairs den that's half underground (there are sliding doors that lead to the backyard). There is no HVAC vent heating or cooling the space - the previous occupants had a woodburning furnace to heat the space, but took it with them, and of course that's not a good solution for renters.

It turns out the HVAC ducts are all in the attic and it would be pretty complicated to drop something down to the basement to heat the space. I feel like it will be adequately cooled in the summer (even though the property is in Alabama) because the space is mostly underground and the cool air will naturally flow to the basement. For heat however, I was looking at either: running a complicated duct from the attic, installing electric baseboard heaters, or running a short gas line to a three-brick gas room heater.

I'm leaning towards the gas heater, as it seems the cheapest to install and operate - I'd appreciate any input you had.

Thanks!

John

Jim Y. · Answer

Is the area insulated? Are the floors a concrete slab? It is expensive to heat a space that cannot retain the heat. Electric baseboard heaters are cheap, and if you put in or beef up the insulation, especially on the floor, you can bring the space up to and maintain a comfortable temperature.

John Fowler · Answer

Sam - that sounds like some great advice. Thanks!

John

Sam W. · Answer

John Fowler

I'd go the gas wall unit option BUT would ensure it was a vented model.  A non-vented model introduces moisture into the air during operation (byproduct of burning natural gas = CO2 and water).

Introducing this moisture into a semi below-ground space (that may already be damper than the rest of the house) could give you mold problems.  A vented heater will not cause this issue.

Good luck.

Sam