Finding the correct HVAC system size for your home is crucial. It affects your ability to enjoy your home and your energy bills. In this HVAC sizing guide, the experts at Mountain Air will explain how to select the right size of heating and cooling system for your home, what factors they take into account and why picking the ideal size HVAC is so important to your convenience.

How Does HVAC System Size Affect Your Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size differs from home to home. Your HVAC system needs enough heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home pleasant. It shouldn't have to work extremely hard to keep up in extremely hot or frigid weather. However, an HVAC system that's too large is inefficient, increases your energy expenses and can cause problems that make your home less enjoyable.

Key Features Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Morgantown, WV

To determine the appropriate HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Mountain Air 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:

  • Square footage: The total area of the home is arguably the most significant factor in picking the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system need to heat and cool?
  • Amount of insulation: A well- insulated home maintains the indoor temperature more effectively, which can influence how much heating and cooling capacity you need.
  • Climate: The local climate in Morgantown, WV, has an important role in determining the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in sunnier climates may require a system with a higher cooling capacity, while milder regions may demand less.
  • Number of windows: Windows can be a major source of energy loss. The number, size, type of glass used, and whether they’re single paned or double paned can greatly influence 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.

Most Common DIY HVAC Size Mistakes

A frequent mistake homeowners make when determining the size of their HVAC system is to rely solely 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 pleasant.

Another typical mistake is not engaging a professional. It's vital to have a qualified HVAC technician conduct a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential aspects of your home into consideration to establish the appropriate HVAC size.

Why Does HVAC System Size Matter?

An incorrectly sized system can cause comfort problems and cost you money. Here's a deep dive into the pitfalls of a wrong-sized HVAC:

Issues with undersized HVAC systems:

  • Less longevity and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often run constantly to attempt to regulate the temperature of a home, leading to more wear and tear. This can cause breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An unpleasant home: Small HVAC systems are too weak to heat and cool your entire living space, which can cause hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are far too cool.
  • Increased energy bills: An underpowered HVAC system that operates nonstop trying to keep up uses more energy, running up your monthly power bills and costing you money. A properly sized and energy-efficient HVAC system operates more efficiently and helps to reduce your monthly bills.

Oversized HVAC system problems

  • Unnecessary expenses: 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.
  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are excessively large often start and stop frequently, 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 lead to indoor air quality issues, and encourage the growth of mildew or mold.

Get Help Replacing or Sizing Your Home HVAC System from Mountain Air  

Now that you have learned some of the aspects of your home that affect what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to find a new heating and cooling system. Mountain Air is ready to help.

We’ll evaluate your home and provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate for HVAC installation. We’ll evaluate your home to identify the best HVAC system size for you, so you can enjoy a cozy environment every day of the year.

Call 304-413-1287 today to set up your free estimate for HVAC installation in Morgantown, WV.