Finding the correct HVAC system size for your home is essential. It impacts your ability to enjoy your home and your energy bills. In this HVAC sizing guide, the specialists at Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. will explain how to select the right 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 differs from home to home. Your HVAC system needs sufficient heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home comfortable. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely hot or frigid weather. However, an HVAC system that's too large is inefficient, costs more up front and can cause problems that make your home less enjoyable.

Critical Features Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Hodgenville, KY

To choose the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. perform a Manual J load calculation to determine how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) are necessary to heat and cool and the home. A Manual J calculation evaluates multiple features of your home, such as:

  • Size of the home: 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 have to keep comfortable?
  • Insulation levels in the home: A well- insulated home retains the indoor temperature better, which can influence how much heating and cooling power you demand.
  • Regional Climate: The local climate in Hodgenville, KY, has an important role in determining the right size HVAC. Homes in warmer climates may require a system with a higher cooling capacity, while chillier regions may need 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 paned can greatly affect heating and cooling requirements.
  • Sun exposure: A home that gets a lot of sunlight will inherently be warmer than one that doesn't, which affects central air sizing. Orientation in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also affect the correct HVAC size.

Common HVAC Size Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake homeowners make when choosing the size of home HVAC system is to rely solely on square footage. Although the square footage of your home has a major impact on what size HVAC you need, other elements also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is necessary to keep your home comfortable.

Another typical mistake is not hiring 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 establish the appropriate HVAC size.

Why Does HVAC System Size Matter?

An improperly sized system can cause comfort problems and increase expenses. 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 don't have enough power often run constantly to strive to maintain the temperature in a home, leading to more wear and tear. This can result in breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An uncomfortable home: Small HVAC systems lack the necessary capacity to heat and cool your entire residence, which can cause 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 consumes less energy and helps to lower your monthly bills.

Issues from oversized HVAC systems

  • Wasted money: Larger HVAC systems are usually more costly, so purchasing more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is a waste of money.
  • Shorter system life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are oversized 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.
  • Increased humidity: An HVAC system should control the moisture level in your home, but an oversized HVAC system often completes its cycle before it has time to accomplish that task. This can result in indoor air quality issues, such as mold growth.

Get Professional HVAC Sizing and Replacement by Working with Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc.  

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

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

Call 270-358-3167 today to set up your free estimate for HVAC installation in Hodgenville, KY.