Finding the correct HVAC system size for your home is essential. It impacts your ability to enjoy your home and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the specialists at Luikart Heating & Cooling will explain how to determine the correct size of heating and cooling system for your home, what factors 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 each home. Your HVAC system needs sufficient 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 oversized is inefficient, costs more up front and can lead to complications that make your home less comfortable.

Critical Features Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Newark, OH

To choose the appropriate HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation experts at Luikart Heating & Cooling perform 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 features of your home, 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 be required to heat and cool?
  • Home insulation: A fully insulated home maintains the indoor temperature more efficiently, which can affect how much heating and cooling power you demand.
  • Local Weather: The local climate in Newark, OH, plays a significant role in determining the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in sunnier climates may require a system with a higher cooling capacity, while chillier regions may demand less.
  • Window size: Windows can be a major source of energy loss. The number, dimensions, type of glass used, and whether they’re single or double paned can significantly impact heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that gets a substantial 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 impact the appropriate HVAC size.

Most Common DIY HVAC Size Mistakes

A frequent mistake homeowners make when sizing their own 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 necessary to keep your home cozy.

Another typical mistake is not employing a professional. It's crucial to have an experienced HVAC technician carry out a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential aspects of your home into consideration to establish the correct 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 incorrectly sized HVAC:

Undersized HVAC system problems:

  • Less longevity and breakdowns: HVAC systems that don't have enough power often run constantly to attempt to regulate the temperature of a home, leading to excessive 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 residence, which can result in 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, 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 tend to cost more money, so purchasing more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is an unnecessary expense.
  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too big often cycle on and off, referred to as short cycling. This can result in wear and tear on your machine, shortening its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Humidity issues: An HVAC system should regulate indoor humidity, but an oversized HVAC system may lack adequate runtime to accomplish that task. This can result in indoor air quality issues, such as mold growth.

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

Now that you understand some of the things that influence what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to choose a new heating and cooling system. Luikart Heating & Cooling can help.

We’ll evaluate your home and give you a free, no-obligation estimate for HVAC installation. We’ll analyze your home to identify the best HVAC system size for you, so you can experience comfort every day of the year.

Call 740-344-5497 today to book your free estimate for HVAC installation in Newark, OH.