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 experts at LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. will explain how to determine the right 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 satisfaction.

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 pleasant. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely warm or cold weather. However, an HVAC system that's too big is inefficient, increases your energy expenses and can create issues that make your home less comfortable.

Crucial Factors Pros Consider for HVAC Sizing in Paxinos, PA

To select the appropriate HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation experts at LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. perform 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 elements, such as:

  • Square footage: The size 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 be required to heat and cool?
  • Amount of insulation: A fully insulated home maintains the indoor temperature more efficiently, which can affect how much heating and cooling capacity you demand.
  • Local Weather: The local climate in Paxinos, PA, has a significant role in determining the correct size HVAC. Homes in warmer climates might need a system with a greater cooling capacity, while cooler regions may require less.
  • Window placement and size: Windows can be a considerable 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 gets a considerable sunlight will automatically 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 affect the appropriate HVAC size.

HVAC Size Mistakes Homeowners Often Make

A frequent mistake homeowners make when sizing their own HVAC system is to focus only on square footage. Although the square footage of your home has a significant 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 conduct a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential factors into consideration to determine the correct HVAC size.

Why Is Your Home HVAC System Size Important?

An incorrectly sized system can cause comfort problems and cost you money. Here's a deep dive into the pitfalls of a incorrectly sized HVAC:

Undersized HVAC system problems:

  • Shorter system life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often run constantly to try to heat or cool a home, leading to increased wear and tear. This can result in breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An uncomfortable home: Small HVAC systems are too weak to heat and cool your whole home, which can lead to 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, driving up your monthly power bills and wasting your hard-earned money. A properly sized and energy-efficient HVAC system uses less power and helps to lower your monthly bills.

Oversized HVAC system problems

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems tend to cost more money, so purchasing more heating and cooling capacity than your home needs is an unnecessary expense.
  • Less service life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too big 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.
  • Humidity issues: 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, such as mold growth.

Get Professional HVAC Sizing and Replacement by Working with LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc.  

Now that you know some of the aspects of your home that impact what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to find a new heating and cooling system. LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. is here to help.

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

Call 570-648-0748 today to book your free estimate for HVAC installation in Paxinos, PA.