Selecting the appropriate HVAC system size for your home is essential. It affects your ability to enjoy your home and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the professionals at Home Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning LLC will explain how to select the correct size of heating and cooling system for your home, what features they take into account and why choosing the best size HVAC is so important to your satisfaction.

Why HVAC System Size Matters for Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size is different for every home. Your HVAC system needs sufficient heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home cozy. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely scorching or frigid weather. However, an HVAC system that's oversized is inefficient, wastes money and can cause problems that make your home less enjoyable.

Critical Features Pros Consider for HVAC Sizing in Waunakee, WI

To choose the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Home Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning LLC carry out 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 multiple factors, such as:

  • Square footage: The total area of the home is arguably the most significant factor in picking the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system need to heat and cool?
  • Amount of insulation: A well- insulated home retains the indoor temperature more efficiently, which can impact how much heating and cooling power you demand.
  • Regional Climate: The local climate in Waunakee, WI, plays a major role in identifying the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in warmer climates might need a system with a higher cooling capacity, while milder regions may demand less.
  • Number of windows: Windows can be a significant source of energy loss. The number, dimensions, type of glass used, and whether they’re single or double pane can considerably influence heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun and shade: A home that receives a considerable sunlight will inherently be warmer than one that doesn't, which affects central air sizing. Home placement in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also affect the appropriate HVAC size.

Most Common DIY HVAC Size Mistakes

A common mistake homeowners make when sizing their own HVAC system is to base their decision on square footage. Although the square footage of your home has a big impact on what size HVAC you need, other elements also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is required to keep your home comfortable.

Another typical mistake is not hiring a professional. It's crucial to have an experienced HVAC technician carry out a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential aspects of your home into consideration to find the correct HVAC size.

Why Does HVAC System Size Matter?

An inadequately sized system can cause comfort problems and increase expenses. Here's a closer look at the pitfalls of a incorrectly sized HVAC:

Problems with HVAC systems that are too small:

  • Less longevity and breakdowns: HVAC systems that don't have enough power often seem to run all the time to try to heat or cool a home, leading to excessive wear and tear. This can lead to breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An uncomfortable home: Small HVAC systems don't have enough power to heat and cool your whole home, which can lead to hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are far too cool.
  • Higher energy expenses: An underpowered HVAC system that works constantly trying to keep up uses more energy, increasing your monthly power bills and costing you money. A properly sized and energy-efficient HVAC system uses less power and helps to lower your monthly bills.

Issues from oversized HVAC systems

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems are usually more costly, so buying more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is a waste of money.
  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are oversized often cycle on and off, referred to as short cycling. This can cause wear and tear on your equipment, shortening its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Humidity issues: An HVAC system should regulate indoor humidity, but an oversized HVAC system may lack adequate runtime to accomplish that task. This can cause indoor air quality issues, such as mold growth.

Get Help Replacing or Sizing Your Home HVAC System from Home Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning LLC  

Now that you understand some of the factors that impact what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to find a new heating and cooling system. Home Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning LLC is ready to help.

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

Call 608-850-9498 today to book your free estimate for HVAC installation in Waunakee, WI.