Quick Answer
In Wellsburg, converting baseboard heat to central air costs between $13,000 and $45,000+. Most older homes along Charles Street, Pleasant Avenue, or the riverfront fall near the $25,000 mark once ductwork and electrical upgrades are included. The investment brings year-round comfort, healthier indoor air, and stronger resale appeal across Brooke County.
Why Wellsburg Homes Are Making the Switch
Much of Wellsburg’s housing stock was built before central HVAC became standard. Many properties near the courthouse district, Yankee Hill, or the hills east of the city still rely on electric baseboards—uneven in heat, expensive to run, and offering no cooling. Central air changes that dynamic, creating balanced temperatures and humidity control for Wellsburg’s damp valley climate.
Project Costs and What Shapes the Budget
Expect overall costs from $13,000 to $45,000+, depending on layout, square footage, and system design. Homes with finished basements or plaster ceilings often add labor costs for duct routing. Upgrading from 100- to 200-amp service is common, especially for heat pumps. In many Wellsburg homes, the ductwork and electrical work cost more than the equipment—but they determine the system’s long-term performance.
Installation Timeline and Disruption Level
Most conversions finish in 4–6 working days. Contractors open access points for ducts, seal and test airflow, then patch and paint. Older homes near High Street or Bethany Pike may require soffits to hide trunk lines. Professional planning keeps mess minimal—crews isolate rooms, cover floors, and restore finishes quickly. When designed to Manual J and D standards, results are quiet, clean, and consistent.
HVAC Options That Fit Wellsburg Homes
A ducted heat pump or furnace + AC system fits most family homes, offering filtered air and steady temperatures. Ductless mini-splits work well in smaller hillside properties or older riverfront homes where ductwork would be intrusive. Both options outperform baseboard heat in efficiency and indoor air quality, providing comfort that matches Wellsburg’s changing seasons.
FAQs
Do Wellsburg homes usually need electrical upgrades?
Yes. Many homes still use 100-amp panels. Modern HVAC systems typically need a 200-amp service for reliability and safety.
How long does installation take?
About a week, depending on the home’s layout and how ducts are routed.
Will a new system help with humidity?
Absolutely. Central air systems dehumidify indoor air—a major benefit for homes along the Ohio River.
Exact HVAC replacement quotes available at (740) 825-9408 or HonestFix.com/schedule-service.
Author: Alex Largent
Alex Largent
Alex Largent is the Owner and Senior HVAC Efficiency Analyst at Honest Fix Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. With more than 20 years of field experience, NATE and EPA certifications, and a hands-on leadership style, Alex teaches his team to fix systems right the first time — with transparency, precision, and no upsells. He writes about HVAC diagnostics, home energy efficiency, and practical maintenance advice for homeowners across the Upper Ohio Valley. Read Alex Largent’s full bio to learn more about his expertise in the HVAC and Plumbing industry. Updated October 2025.
