Choosing the correct HVAC system size for your home is crucial. It impacts your home enjoyment and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the specialists at Integrity AC & Heating LLC will explain how to choose the right 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.

Why HVAC System Size Matters for Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size differs from home to home. Your HVAC system needs adequate heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home comfortable. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely hot or cold weather. However, an HVAC system that's oversized is inefficient, wastes money and can cause problems that make your home less comfortable.

Critical Features Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Phoenix, AZ

To select the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation experts at Integrity AC & Heating LLC conduct 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 several factors, such as:

  • Home size: The total area 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 need to heat and cool?
  • Home insulation: A well- insulated home maintains the indoor temperature more effectively, which can impact how much heating and cooling power you need.
  • Climate: The local climate in Phoenix, AZ, has an important role in finding the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in sunnier climates may require a system with a higher cooling capacity, while cooler regions may demand less.
  • Window 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 pane can significantly affect heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that gets 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.

Common HVAC Size Mistakes to Avoid

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 big 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 hiring a professional. It's crucial to have a skilled HVAC technician perform a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential factors into consideration to determine the right HVAC size.

What Difference Does HVAC System Size Make?

An inadequately sized system can result in 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 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 unpleasant home: Small HVAC systems don't have enough power to heat and cool your entire living space, which can result in hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are uncomfortably cold.
  • Increased energy bills: 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 reduce your monthly bills.

Issues from oversized HVAC systems

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems typically have a higher purchase price, so buying more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is a waste of money.
  • Less service life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are excessively large often cycle on and off, referred to as short cycling. This can result in wear and tear on your equipment, shortening its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Excessive indoor humidity: An HVAC system should balance indoor air moisture, 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 Professional HVAC Sizing and Replacement by Working with Integrity AC & Heating LLC  

Now that you know some of the things that influence what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to select a new heating and cooling system. Integrity AC & Heating LLC is ready 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 identify the ideal HVAC system size for you, so you can have a comfortable home every day of the year.

Call 602-971-0567 today to schedule your free estimate for HVAC installation in Phoenix, AZ.