Selecting the right HVAC system size for your home is essential. It affects your comfort and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the experts at Scott Temperature will explain how to select the correct size of heating and cooling system for your home, what features they take into account and why selecting the most suitable size HVAC is so important to your comfort.

How Does HVAC System Size Affect Your Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size differs from home to 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 warm or frigid weather. However, an HVAC system that's oversized is inefficient, wastes money and can cause problems that make your home less agreeable.

Critical Factors Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Lawrence, KS

To select the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Scott Temperature conduct a Manual J load calculation to determine how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) are necessary to heat and cool and the home. A Manual J calculation evaluates multiple factors, such as:

  • Home size: The size of the home is arguably the most crucial factor in selecting the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system be required to keep comfortable?
  • Insulation levels in the home: A properly insulated home retains the indoor temperature more efficiently, which can impact how much heating and cooling power you need.
  • Climate: The local climate in Lawrence, KS, plays a significant role in finding the right size HVAC. Homes in hotter climates might need a system with a greater 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 pane can significantly affect heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that receives a considerable sunlight will naturally be warmer than one that doesn't, which influences central air sizing. Home placement in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also influence the proper HVAC size.

HVAC Size Mistakes Homeowners Often Make

A frequent mistake homeowners make when determining the size of their 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 considerations also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is required to keep your home pleasant.

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

What Difference Does HVAC System Size Make?

An incorrectly sized system can result in comfort problems and drive up your monthly power bills. Here's a deep dive into the pitfalls of a wrong-sized HVAC:

Problems with HVAC systems that are too small:

  • Shorter system life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often operate continuously to strive to maintain the temperature in a home, leading to increased wear and tear. This can lead to breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An uncomfortable home: Small HVAC systems are too weak to heat and cool your entire residence, which can result in hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are chilly and uncomfortable.
  • Higher energy bills: An underpowered HVAC system that works constantly trying to keep up uses more energy, driving up your monthly power bills and costing you money. A properly sized and energy-efficient HVAC system uses less power and helps to reduce your monthly bills.

Issues from oversized HVAC systems

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems typically have a higher purchase price, so investing in more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is a waste of money.
  • Shorter system life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are oversized often cycle on and off, referred to as short cycling. This can lead to wear and tear on your equipment, shortening its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Increased humidity: An HVAC system should regulate indoor humidity, but an oversized HVAC system often completes its cycle before it has time to accomplish that task. This can lead to indoor air quality issues, and encourage the growth of mildew or mold.

Get Help Replacing or Sizing Your Home HVAC System from Scott Temperature  

Now that you know some of the things that influence what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to choose a new heating and cooling system. Scott Temperature is here to help.

We’ll evaluate your home and provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate for HVAC installation. We’ll assess your home to find the most suitable HVAC system size for you, so you can experience comfort every day of the year.

Call 785-269-0465 today to book your free estimate for HVAC installation in Lawrence, KS.