When it comes to heating home additions, technology has come a long way—and Chris Smisek, Project Manager, Estimator, and Safety Officer at NCC Builders, has watched that evolution firsthand.
Chris has been installing heat pumps and mini-splits since the early 2000s, when they were just on the cusp of becoming common in residential construction. At the time, it was a bold approach to solving an age-old problem: how do you efficiently heat (or cool) a new addition without reworking your entire HVAC system?
Fast forward a few decades, and Chris says mini-splits and heat pumps are no longer niche options. They’re a smart, energy-efficient solution that’s become a staple in modern home additions, renovations, and unique spaces.
Why Mini-Splits are a Breakthrough
Before mini-splits hit the mainstream, heating a new space usually meant extending existing ductwork, upgrading your furnace, or investing in an entirely new system. These fixes were often costly and complicated.
Mini-splits changed the game by being:
- Ductless – No invasive wall or ceiling work required
- Zoned – Only heat the space you need, when you need it
- Straightforward to install – Perfect for additions, sunrooms, or detached spaces
Today’s systems are in a whole new league. They’re:
- More energy efficient, often with SEER ratings over 20
- Quieter, more compact, and better-looking
- Smart home-ready, with remote controls and app access
- Cold-climate capable, with inverter technology that works well in Minnesota winters
Efficiency and Savings through Heat Pumps
Cold-climate heat pumps (CCHPs) have emerged as a reliable and efficient heating solution for regions like Minnesota, which are experiencing harsh winters. Unlike traditional heating systems that generate heat through combustion, CCHPs transfer existing heat from the outdoor air into the home, even at subzero temperatures. This efficiency not only ensures consistent indoor comfort but also contributes to significant energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
For NCC clients, this means comfort, control, and long-term savings—all with less disruption during the build.
We frequently recommend heat pumps or mini-splits for:
- Home additions
- Bonus rooms
- Converted garages or workshops
- Older homes where ductwork is limited or inefficient
With Chris’s decades of experience we bring deep insight into when these systems make the most sense, and how to integrate them seamlessly into your project.
Thinking about an addition or new space?
Let’s talk. The NCC Builders team is here to help you explore all your options—with the kind of insight that only comes from experience.