Selecting the correct HVAC system size for your home is crucial. It affects your ability to enjoy your home and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the experts at Prestige Plumbing and Air will explain how to determine the best size of heating and cooling system for your home, what factors they take into account and why selecting the most suitable size HVAC is so important to your comfort.

Why HVAC System Size Matters for 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 have to work extremely hard to keep up in extremely scorching or cold weather. However, an HVAC system that's too large is inefficient, wastes money and can cause problems that make your home less enjoyable.

Key Features Pros Consider for HVAC Sizing in Cape Girardeau, MO

To determine the appropriate HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Prestige Plumbing and Air carry out 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 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 be required to keep comfortable?
  • Amount of insulation: A well- insulated home retains the indoor temperature better, which can impact how much heating and cooling capacity you need.
  • Regional Climate: The local climate in Cape Girardeau, MO, has a major role in determining the correct size HVAC. Homes in warmer climates might need a system with a higher cooling capacity, while milder regions may demand less.
  • Window placement and size: 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 considerably affect heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun and shade: A home that receives 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 influence the proper HVAC size.

HVAC Size Mistakes Homeowners Often Make

A common mistake homeowners make when determining the size of their HVAC system is to rely solely on square footage. While the square footage of your home has a significant impact on what size HVAC you need, other factors also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is necessary to keep your home cozy.

Another typical mistake is not engaging 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 improperly sized system can cause comfort problems and increase expenses. Here's a closer look at the pitfalls of a wrong-sized HVAC:

Undersized HVAC system problems:

  • Less longevity and breakdowns: HVAC systems that don't have enough power often operate continuously to strive to maintain the temperature in 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 whole home, which can lead to hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are chilly and uncomfortable.
  • Higher energy bills: 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 reduce your monthly bills.

Issues from oversized HVAC systems

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems tend to cost more money, so purchasing more heating and cooling capacity than your home needs is an avoidable expense.
  • Reduced lifespan 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 machine, shortening its service life or requiring HVAC repair.
  • Excessive indoor humidity: An HVAC system should control the moisture level in your home, but an oversized HVAC system may lack adequate runtime to accomplish that task. This can cause indoor air quality issues, and encourage the growth of mildew or mold.

Get Help Replacing or Sizing Your Home HVAC System from Prestige Plumbing and Air  

Now that you understand some of the aspects of your home that impact what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to choose a new heating and cooling system. Prestige Plumbing and Air 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 identify the most suitable HVAC system size for you, so you can experience comfort every day of the year.

Call 573-510-2535 today to set up your free estimate for HVAC installation in Cape Girardeau, MO.