If you need more ram but not a lot of CPU a used thin client can work, i use a HP t630 since 6 months now with only nextcloud and storage, has 2 ddr4 slots and 2sata m.2(not Nvme) for Expansion. Again its a 4core Pre Ryzen AMD chip so don’t expect any Wonders. https://www.parkytowers.me.uk/thin/hp/t630/ this is a good side for this and other thin Clients.
Edit: according to HP the idle Power consumption is ~12w
Have an fan pushing out on the ceiling in the middle of the house would work good, it will get the hottest air out. But also keep in mind: the air has to come from somewhere, if the house is sealed (new windows) this will not work well.