Finding the correct HVAC system size for your home is vital. It affects your ability to enjoy your home and your energy bills. In this HVAC sizing guide, the experts at Reliant Heating and Air Conditioning will explain how to select the best size of heating and cooling system for your home, what factors they take into account and why picking the most suitable size HVAC is so important to your comfort.

Why HVAC System Size Matters for Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size varies for every home. Your HVAC system needs adequate heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home pleasant. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely scorching or chilly weather. However, an HVAC system that's too large is inefficient, increases your energy expenses and can create issues that make your home less enjoyable.

Critical Features Pros Consider for HVAC Sizing in Clearwater, FL

To choose the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation experts at Reliant Heating and Air Conditioning conduct 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 factors, such as:

  • Square footage: 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 have to heat and cool?
  • Amount of insulation: A fully insulated home retains the indoor temperature more effectively, which can affect how much heating and cooling power you require.
  • Local Weather: The local climate in Clearwater, FL, has a major role in identifying the right size HVAC. Homes in warmer climates might need a system with a greater cooling capacity, while milder regions may need less.
  • Window size: Windows can be a significant source of energy loss. The number, size, type of glass used, and whether they’re single or double pane can considerably influence heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that gets a substantial sunlight will automatically be warmer than one that doesn't, which impacts 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 frequent mistake homeowners make when choosing the size of home HVAC system is to focus only 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 required to keep your home cozy.

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

What Difference Does HVAC System Size Make?

An inadequately sized system can cause comfort problems and increase expenses. Here's a closer look at the pitfalls of a incorrectly sized HVAC:

Undersized HVAC system problems:

  • Shorter system life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often operate continuously to attempt to regulate the temperature of 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 don't have enough power to heat and cool your whole home, which can result in hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are chilly and uncomfortable.
  • Higher energy expenses: 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 consumes less energy 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 requires is an avoidable expense.
  • Shorter system life 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 equipment, reducing 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, such as mold growth.

Get Professional HVAC Sizing and Replacement by Working with Reliant Heating and Air Conditioning  

Now that you know some of the factors that influence what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to select a new heating and cooling system. Reliant Heating and Air Conditioning is ready to help.

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

Call 727-219-2325 today to book your free estimate for HVAC installation in Clearwater, FL.