Selecting the correct HVAC system size for your home is crucial. It affects your ability to enjoy your home and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the professionals at Air Masters Heating & Cooling will explain how to determine the correct size of heating and cooling system for your home, what features they take into account and why picking the most suitable size HVAC is so important to your satisfaction.

What Impact Does HVAC System Size Make on Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size differs for every home. Your HVAC system needs enough heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home pleasant. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely scorching or frigid weather. However, an HVAC system that's oversized is inefficient, increases your energy expenses and can lead to complications that make your home less enjoyable.

Key Features Pros Consider for HVAC Sizing in Port Orchard, WA

To choose the correct HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Air Masters Heating & Cooling conduct a Manual J load calculation to determine how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) are needed to heat and cool and the home. A Manual J calculation evaluates several elements, such as:

  • Square footage: The total area of the home is arguably the most important factor in selecting the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system need to keep comfortable?
  • Home insulation: A properly insulated home maintains the indoor temperature more efficiently, which can impact how much heating and cooling power you require.
  • Climate: The local climate in Port Orchard, WA, has a significant role in finding the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in hotter climates might need a system with an increased cooling capacity, while chillier regions may require less.
  • Number of windows: Windows can be a major source of energy loss. The number, dimensions, type of glass used, and whether they’re single or double paned can significantly influence heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that receives a considerable sunlight will inherently be warmer than one that doesn't, which impacts central air sizing. Positioning in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also influence the correct HVAC size.

Most Common DIY HVAC Size Mistakes

A common mistake homeowners make when determining the size of their HVAC system is to focus only on square footage. Although the square footage of your home has a big impact on what size HVAC you need, other considerations also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is required to keep your home cozy.

Another typical mistake is not engaging a professional. It's essential to have a skilled HVAC technician conduct a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential factors into consideration to determine the right HVAC size.

Why Is Your Home HVAC System Size Important?

An inadequately sized system can lead to comfort problems and cost you money. Here's a detailed view of the pitfalls of a incorrectly sized HVAC:

Problems with HVAC systems that are too small:

  • Shorter system life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often run constantly to try to heat or cool a home, leading to more wear and tear. This can cause breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An unpleasant home: Small HVAC systems are too weak to heat and cool your entire living space, which can cause hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are uncomfortably cold.
  • Higher energy expenses: An underpowered HVAC system that works constantly trying to keep up uses more energy, running up your monthly power bills and wasting your hard-earned money. A properly sized and energy-efficient HVAC system operates more efficiently and helps to lower your monthly bills.

Issues from oversized HVAC systems

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems tend to cost more money, so purchasing more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is an unnecessary expense.
  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are oversized often start and stop frequently, referred to as short cycling. This can cause wear and tear on your equipment, shortening its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Increased humidity: An HVAC system should balance indoor air moisture, but an oversized HVAC system might not run long enough to accomplish that task. This can result in indoor air quality issues, and encourage the growth of mildew or mold.

Get the Right HVAC System Size by Working With the Pros at Air Masters Heating & Cooling  

Now that you understand some of the factors that affect what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to find a new heating and cooling system. Air Masters Heating & Cooling can help.

We’ll evaluate your home and provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate for HVAC installation. We’ll assess your home to identify the best HVAC system size for you, so you can enjoy a cozy environment every day of the year.

Call 360-205-7115 today to schedule your free estimate for HVAC installation in Port Orchard, WA.