Selecting the correct HVAC system size for your home is essential. It has a big impact on your ability to enjoy your home and your power expenses. In this HVAC sizing guide, the professionals at Prudhom Mechanical will explain how to choose the correct size of heating and cooling system for your home, what features they take into account and why selecting the ideal size HVAC is so important to your satisfaction.

How Does HVAC System Size Affect Your Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size varies from home to home. Your HVAC system needs enough heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home comfortable. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely scorching or frigid weather. However, an HVAC system that's too big is inefficient, costs more up front and can cause problems that make your home less agreeable.

Key Features Pros Consider for HVAC Sizing in Edmond, OK

To select the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation experts at Prudhom Mechanical 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 elements, such as:

  • Square footage: The size of the home is arguably the most crucial factor in picking the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system need to keep comfortable?
  • Home insulation: A fully insulated home maintains the indoor temperature better, which can affect how much heating and cooling power you need.
  • Local Weather: The local climate in Edmond, OK, has a significant role in identifying the correct size HVAC. Homes in warmer climates might need a system with a greater cooling capacity, while milder regions may need less.
  • Window placement and size: Windows can be a significant source of energy loss. The number, size, type of glass used, and whether they’re single or double paned can greatly influence heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun and shade: A home that gets a lot of 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.

Most Common DIY HVAC Size Mistakes

A common 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 major 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 vital to have a qualified HVAC technician perform a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential elements into consideration to determine the appropriate HVAC size.

Why Is Your Home HVAC System Size Important?

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

Undersized HVAC system problems:

  • Less longevity 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 cause breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An unpleasant home: Small HVAC systems lack the necessary capacity to heat and cool your whole home, which can cause hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are far too cool.
  • Increased energy expenses: An underpowered HVAC system that operates nonstop 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 consumes less energy and helps to lower your monthly bills.

Problems with HVAC systems that are too big

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems are usually more costly, so purchasing more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is an avoidable expense.
  • Shorter system life 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 machine, reducing its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Excessive indoor 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 cause indoor air quality issues, such as mold growth.

Get Help Replacing or Sizing Your Home HVAC System from Prudhom Mechanical  

Now that you have learned some of the factors that impact what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to select a new heating and cooling system. Prudhom Mechanical 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 ideal HVAC system size for you, so you can enjoy a cozy environment every day of the year.

Call 405-888-8606 today to schedule your free estimate for HVAC installation in Edmond, OK.