Finding the correct HVAC system size for your home is essential. It affects your home enjoyment and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the specialists at Struven Heating & Cooling will explain how to choose the correct size of heating and cooling system for your home, what features they take into account and why picking the best size HVAC is so important to your comfort.

How Does HVAC System Size Affect Your Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size is different for each home. Your HVAC system needs adequate heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home cozy. It shouldn't have to work extremely hard to keep up in extremely warm or chilly weather. However, an HVAC system that's too big is inefficient, increases your energy expenses and can cause problems that make your home less agreeable.

Crucial Factors Pros Consider for HVAC Sizing in Crown Point, IN

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

  • Home size: The total area of the home is arguably the most important factor in picking the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system have to heat and cool?
  • Amount of insulation: A fully insulated home maintains the indoor temperature better, which can affect how much heating and cooling capacity you demand.
  • Regional Climate: The local climate in Crown Point, IN, plays an important role in identifying the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in warmer climates might need a system with an increased cooling capacity, while milder regions may need less.
  • Window placement and size: Windows can be a considerable source of energy loss. The number, size, type of glass used, and whether they’re single paned or double paned can greatly affect heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that receives a considerable sunlight will automatically 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.

Most Common DIY HVAC Size Mistakes

A common mistake homeowners make when determining the size of their HVAC system is to rely solely on square footage. While the square footage of your home has a big impact on what size HVAC you need, other factors also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is necessary to keep your home comfortable.

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

What Difference Does HVAC System Size Make?

An improperly sized system can lead to 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:

  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often seem to run all the time to try to heat or cool a home, leading to more wear and tear. This can result in 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.
  • Increased energy expenses: An underpowered HVAC system that runs continuously 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.

Problems with HVAC systems that are too big

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems typically have a higher purchase price, 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 cycle on and off, referred to as short cycling. This can cause wear and tear on your machine, shortening its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Humidity issues: An HVAC system should balance indoor air moisture, but an oversized HVAC system may lack adequate runtime to accomplish that task. This can cause indoor air quality issues, and encourage the growth of mildew or mold.

Get Help Replacing or Sizing Your Home HVAC System from Struven Heating & Cooling  

Now that you have learned some of the factors that impact what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to choose a new heating and cooling system. Struven Heating & Cooling can help.

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

Call 219-292-0956 today to schedule your free estimate for HVAC installation in Crown Point, IN.