Choosing the appropriate HVAC system size for your home is vital. It has a big impact on your home enjoyment and your energy bills. In this HVAC sizing guide, the experts at GLR Mechanical will explain how to determine 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 comfort.

What Impact Does HVAC System Size Make on Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size is different for every 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 hot or chilly weather. However, an HVAC system that's oversized is inefficient, wastes money and can cause problems that make your home less comfortable.

Key Features Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Duryea, PA

To determine the appropriate HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at GLR Mechanical carry out 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 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 need to heat and cool?
  • Amount of insulation: A properly insulated home maintains the indoor temperature more effectively, which can influence how much heating and cooling power you need.
  • Regional Climate: The local climate in Duryea, PA, plays a major role in finding the right size HVAC. Homes in warmer climates may require a system with an increased cooling capacity, while milder regions may demand less.
  • Number of windows: Windows can be a considerable source of energy loss. The number, size, type of glass used, and whether they’re single or double pane can significantly affect heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun and shade: A home that gets a lot of sunlight will inherently be warmer than one that doesn't, which influences central air sizing. Orientation in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also impact the appropriate HVAC size.

HVAC Size Mistakes Homeowners Often Make

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 significant impact on what size HVAC you need, other considerations also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is required to keep your home cozy.

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

Why Does HVAC System Size Matter?

An improperly sized system can result in comfort problems and increase expenses. Here's a closer look at the pitfalls of a wrong-sized HVAC:

Problems with HVAC systems that are too small:

  • Reduced lifespan 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 increased wear and tear. This can lead to breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An uncomfortable home: Small HVAC systems lack the necessary capacity to heat and cool your whole home, which can lead to hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are far too cool.
  • Increased energy bills: An underpowered HVAC system that runs continuously 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 uses less power and helps to lower your monthly bills.

Oversized HVAC system problems

  • Unnecessary expenses: Larger HVAC systems are usually more costly, so purchasing more heating and cooling capacity than your home needs is an avoidable expense.
  • Less service life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too big 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.
  • Humidity issues: 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, and encourage the growth of mildew or mold.

Get the Right HVAC System Size by Working With the Pros at GLR Mechanical  

Now that you know some of the aspects of your home that influence what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to find a new heating and cooling system. GLR Mechanical 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 most suitable HVAC system size for you, so you can have a comfortable home every day of the year.

Call 570-309-0403 today to schedule your free estimate for HVAC installation in Duryea, PA.