Are you looking for ways to hide your furnace in an unfinished basement? If so, there are several options available to you. Here are some ideas for how to hide furnace in unfinished basement.
Whether you have an unfinished basement or finished space in your home, there are a few different ways to hide a furnace from plain sight. Whether you simply don’t like the look of the metal box tucked away for optimal heating efficiency or you’d rather use it as part of the decor, there are several clever and creative ideas that can help you keep your furnace under wraps.
From painting it to utilizing other pieces in the room to conceal it—and even using it itself as part of your design plan—we’ll explore some easy yet effective ways to get the most out of hiding this necessary eye-sore in an unfinished basement.
What Will You Need?
Before you can begin hiding the furnace in your unfinished basement, there are a few supplies that you should gather first. Here are some of the items that you may need:
- Paint (if desired)
- Acoustic ceiling tiles
- Plywood or drywall
- Shelves or furniture to cover up the area
Now that you’ve gathered the necessary materials let’s explore some creative ways to hide your furnace in an unfinished basement.
10 Easy Steps on How to Hide Furnace in Unfinished Basement
Step 1. Paint It:
One of the most effective ways to hide a furnace in an unfinished basement is simply to give it a coat of paint. Choose a color that matches the existing décor and paint the entire unit. This allows you to blend it into the background, making it virtually invisible.
Step 2. Utilize Acoustic Ceiling Tiles:
Another easy way to conceal your furnace is by covering it with acoustic ceiling tiles. Use adhesive or self-tapping screws to secure them in place, and then cover the area with fabric or curtains to protect it from dust and noise. If you want to get extra creative, use a combination of different colors and textures for a unique look.
Step 3. Cover It With Plywood or Drywall:
Using plywood or drywall may be the best option if you want to conceal your furnace completely. Cut the pieces to fit the size and shape of your furnace, and then attach them with screws or nails. Once it’s in place, you can paint the area to match your existing décor.
Step 4. Use Shelves or Furniture to Conceal It:
You can also use shelves or furniture to help hide your furnace in an unfinished basement. Place them in front of the unit and ensure they are tall enough to not be seen from certain angles. This is a great way to keep the space looking neat and tidy while still having access to your furnace when needed.
Step 5. Utilize Rugs and Curtains:
Rugs and curtains are another easy way to cover up your furnace in an unfinished basement. Choose a rug that is the same color as the walls and furniture, and hang curtains around the area for added privacy. There are also many types of decorative fabric that you can use to add a touch of color and texture to the space.
Step 6. Create Custom Framing:
If you want to make your furnace even more hidden, consider custom framing it with wood or metal. This allows you to create an attractive piece of artwork out of what would otherwise be just a plain box in your unfinished basement. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your framing and choose colors, textures, and shapes that best fit the rest of the room’s décor.
Step 7. Utilize Wall Hangings:
Hang wall art over the front of the unit or place furniture in front of it to help hide it from view. This can be especially helpful if you have limited space but still want to make sure that your furnace stays out of sight. Try using colorful tapestries or wall hangings made of fabric to add visual interest and blend in with the rest of the décor.
Step 8. Place Plants Around It:
If you don’t have room to hang wall art or place furniture in front of the unit, consider placing plants around it instead. The greenery can help draw attention away from the furnace and make it less visible. Use larger plants that can fill out the space and provide extra camouflage.
Step 9. Utilize Decorative Baskets:
Decorative baskets are a great way to hide your furnace in an unfinished basement. Choose ones that are big enough to cover up the entire unit and then fill them with items like books, blankets, or toys for added style and texture. You can also use wicker baskets for an airy, light look.
Step 10. Use It as Part Of Your Design Plan:
Finally, consider using the furnace itself as part of your design plan. Paint it with a bright color or hang wall art around it to make it stand out as a focal point. This can add character to an otherwise dull and boring basement.
Now that you know how to hide your furnace in an unfinished basement, get creative and start experimenting with different designs and ideas. With a little bit of creativity, you can turn this space into something unique and beautiful.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Install a curtain or garage door to cover the furnace. This will help keep it out of sight while still providing easy access for repairs.
- Place furniture over the furnace. For example, you can place a dresser in front of the furnace to conceal it behind closed doors and drawers.
- If you have an open space near the ceiling, you can install shelves up high above the furnace
- and store boxes of items on them to hide the furnace from view.
- Hang decorative artwork or tapestries around the area where your furnace is located as another way to obscure its presence in your basement.
- Paint or wallpaper over any exposed ducts so that they blend in with their surroundings rather than standing out. This will help keep the furnace out of sight and improve the overall aesthetic of your basement space.
With these tips, you can easily hide your furnace and make sure it’s not an eyesore in your unfinished basement.
5 Things You Should Avoid
1. Avoid Using Strong Adhesives: Adhesives such as glue, tape, and screws can damage the furnace and make it less effective. This could lead to expensive repairs in the future.
2. Don’t Paint Directly on the Unit: Painting directly on your furnace or its components can create a fire hazard or cause other issues with its operation. As a result, you should always use paint that is specifically designed for use on furnaces.
3. Avoid Hanging Heavy Items Over It: Hanging heavy items like shelves or cabinets above the furnace can put too much stress on the unit and potentially cause problems. It’s best to keep heavy items away from the furnace.
4. Don’t Cover Up Air Vents: Covering up air vents will hinder air flow and make your furnace less efficient. This will increase your energy bills and potentially cause problems with the unit in the future.
5. Steer Clear of Combustible Materials: Keep any combustible materials away from the furnace to prevent potential fires. Another safety precaution to take is to make sure that there is always enough space between the furnace and any nearby combustible materials.
Now you have the knowledge to hide your furnace in an unfinished basement without damaging it or creating a safety hazard. Use these tips and techniques to create a stylish and practical space that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or convenience.
Can You Put a Furnace Anywhere in a Basement?
No, putting a furnace anywhere in a basement is not recommended. Furnaces should only be installed in basements with proper ventilation and don’t pose a fire risk or other hazards. It is important to follow all local codes when selecting the location for your furnace.
Additionally, you should consult with an HVAC professional who can help ensure that your furnace is properly installed and maintained. As long as you take the necessary precautions, you can safely hide your furnace while still making it an integral part of your basement design.
With some careful planning and a little creativity, you can create a unique, functional and stylish space. Happy designing!
Conclusion
While there are many ways to hide a furnace in an unfinished basement, the most important thing is to ensure it does not interfere with other objects when half of the room is used as an area for activities. Ultimately, no matter what you choose – whether a simple curtain, stylish paneling, or something more comprehensive – make sure it provides enough ventilation and temperature control.
Additionally, adding furniture or accessories in the other part of the basement can create harmony between all elements and enhance the comfort your unfinished basement offers.
Therefore, in conclusion, understanding how to hide furnace in unfinished basement does require creativity and careful consideration; however, a well-planned design can transform that empty space into a cozy spot to relax and spend time with friends and family.