Can a mini split be installed in a 1950s cape cod home with no ductwork without professional help?
Asked by Annabelle Riis 
4 months ago
Last Updated: July 26, 2024
Hey, does anyone else have one of those old floor furnaces? I have one in my 1950s cape cod house with a crawl space. I’m thinking about getting rid of it and putting in a mini split system for heating and cooling since we don’t have any ductwork. Removing the floor furnace and closing off the gas line is definitely a job for the pros, but do you think installing a mini split system could be a DIY project?
There are conflicting opinions – some say yes, others say no. The kits are designed to be simple to use if you just follow the instructions.
Sure, just measure the distance between the outside and inside units, then place an order with Mr. Cool. Drill a few holes and mount it – it’s quite straightforward.
You can turn off the gas to the old furnace and disconnect it yourself.
You might want to reach out to the gas supplier to have them disconnect or shut it off at the street.
I’m not sure what exactly you mean by “old.” But generally, units made in the last 30 years aren’t too heavy.
You’re definitely going to need a professional to disconnect or cap off the original gas system, unless you’re willing to risk not having home insurance, haha. When it comes to upgrading to a new system, it shouldn’t be a problem, just be prepared for the costs. You’re looking at a price tag in the five figures, so make sure the return on investment makes sense for you.
We have a ‘floor furnace’ that was put in back in the late 50’s, I believe. It started out as an oil burner system but was converted to a 220v electric plenum style in the early 90’s. The good thing is, it still uses the same fan system, furnace chassis, and household ducting. If I ever decide to add an a/c system (maybe a heat pump?), I would position it outside to work with the existing duct/vent setup in the house…but that’s just my plan.
Honestly, I don’t really need a/c most