The days are getting longer, but they’re still a long ways from getting warmer. And if the predictions of Punxsutawney Phil carry any weight, it’ll be at least another six weeks before winter begins to subside.
For homeowners in particularly snowy states such as Maryland, now is the time to begin searching for an oasis from the bitter cold outside. You don’t have to search too far, though. With the right tactics, you can turn your own living room into the cozy, warm escape you’ve been dreaming of.
If your living room is more on the dreary, drafty side, consider these upgrades to convert it into a comfortable retreat you’ll love to come home to:
Gas Fireplace Installation
There are arguably few things cozier than cuddling up in front of a fire. When you have a gas fireplace, there’s no effort needed to build up a flame – just turn on the switch and you’re ready to go.
Installing a gas fireplace into your living room (or any room of your house) isn’t hard. There’s no chimney required, but you will need a gas line, ventilation and a wall-pass-through component. If all this sounds complicated, don’t worry: The experts at SMO Energy can set up your new gas fireplace hassle-free.
A gas fireplace can add warmth and a cozy feel to your living room.To make your fireplace look more realistic, you can outfit it with a frame or a mantle, The Spruce noted. Choose one that looks like brick for a vintage vibe, or a sleek, white or stainless steel face for a more modern touch.
Heat Pump Installation
If your living room is lacking the heat you’re looking for but a fireplace wouldn’t quite fit with the aesthetic, there are other ways to bring more warmth to this space. A ductless mini-split heat pump system can work wonders for the room in your home that feels too drafty for your comfort.
Since there’s no ductwork necessary for the mini-split system, it’s pretty quick and simple to add one to your living room. They work using two units: one inside and one outside, which are connected using refrigerant lines.
A single outdoor unit can support as many as eight indoor units, so if there are more rooms that just your living room that could use a temperature boost, it’s not hard to share the warmth. Heat pumps run on electricity, which means it’ll be a low-cost alternative to cranking the heat on your thermostat if you normally use oil or natural gas to heat your home.
SMO Energy Can Upgrade Your Living Room
Whether you’ve decided on a gas fireplace installation or that a ductless mini-split system is more your speed, you’re on your way to a much more comfortable living room. Now, the only thing standing in your way is the installation.
To make sure it’s done right, reach out to SMO Energy. Our professionals know how to obtain the right permits needed, install the equipment correctly and can even help you maintain your new equipment over the years. Plus, they know the codes and regulations that apply to homes in Southern Maryland, so you can rest assured your updated living room is completed the right way.
