Selecting the right HVAC system size for your home is essential. It has a big impact on your ability to enjoy your home and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the experts at Kapaun & Brown will explain how to determine the right size of heating and cooling system for your home, what factors they take into account and why selecting the best size HVAC is so important to your convenience.

Why HVAC System Size Matters for Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size varies for every home. Your HVAC system needs sufficient heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home cozy. It shouldn't have to work extremely hard to keep up in extremely hot or cold weather. However, an HVAC system that's too big is inefficient, increases your energy expenses and can lead to complications that make your home less agreeable.

Crucial Features Pros Consider for HVAC Sizing in Marshalltown, IA

To determine the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at Kapaun & Brown 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 multiple elements, such as:

  • Size of the home: The size of the home is arguably the most crucial factor in picking the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system need to keep comfortable?
  • Home insulation: A fully insulated home maintains the indoor temperature better, which can influence how much heating and cooling power you need.
  • Local Weather: The local climate in Marshalltown, IA, has a significant role in identifying the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in warmer climates might need a system with a higher cooling capacity, while milder regions may require 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 significantly impact heating and cooling requirements.
  • Amount of sun: A home that gets a lot of sunlight will automatically be warmer than one that doesn't, which influences central air sizing. Orientation 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 choosing the size of home HVAC system is to base their decision on square footage. While the square footage of your home has a big impact on what size HVAC you need, other elements also influence how much heating and cooling capacity is necessary to keep your home pleasant.

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

Why Does HVAC System Size Matter?

An inadequately sized system can lead to comfort problems and drive up your monthly power bills. Here's a closer look at the pitfalls of a incorrectly sized HVAC:

Problems with HVAC systems that are too small:

  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often run constantly to attempt to regulate the temperature of a home, leading to increased wear and tear. This can cause breakdowns and even require premature HVAC replacement.
  • An uncomfortable home: Small HVAC systems are too weak to heat and cool your entire living space, which can lead to hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are uncomfortably cold.
  • Higher energy bills: An underpowered HVAC system that operates nonstop trying to keep up uses more energy, driving up your monthly power bills and wasting your hard-earned 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 are usually more costly, so purchasing more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is a waste of money.
  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are oversized often start and stop frequently, referred to as short cycling. This can cause 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 result in indoor air quality issues, such as mold growth.

Get Help Replacing or Sizing Your Home HVAC System from Kapaun & Brown  

Now that you have learned some of the factors that impact what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to find a new heating and cooling system. Kapaun & Brown is here to help.

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

Call 641-812-2028 today to book your free estimate for HVAC installation in Marshalltown, IA.