Finding the correct HVAC system size for your home is crucial. It impacts your ability to enjoy your home and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the specialists at Strine's will explain how to choose the best size of heating and cooling system for your home, what factors they take into account and why choosing the ideal size HVAC is so important to your convenience.

Why HVAC System Size Matters for Home Comfort and Efficiency

Proper HVAC size is different from home to home. Your HVAC system needs sufficient heating and cooling capacity to make your entire home pleasant. It shouldn't struggle to keep up in extremely hot or cold weather. However, an HVAC system that's oversized is inefficient, wastes money and can lead to complications that make your home less comfortable.

Key Features Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in York, PA

To determine the correct HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation experts at Strine's carry out 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 several elements, such as:

  • Size of the home: The size of the home is arguably the most crucial factor in choosing the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system need to heat and cool?
  • Insulation levels in the home: A fully insulated home maintains the indoor temperature more efficiently, which can influence how much heating and cooling capacity you need.
  • Local Weather: The local climate in York, PA, has a significant role in finding the right size HVAC. Homes in sunnier climates may require a system with a greater cooling capacity, while milder regions may need 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 or double pane can greatly influence heating and cooling requirements.
  • Amount of sun: A home that receives a considerable sunlight will naturally 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 affect the correct HVAC size.

Common HVAC Size Mistakes to Avoid

A frequent mistake homeowners make when sizing their own HVAC system is to base their decision 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 cozy.

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

Why Is Your Home HVAC System Size Important?

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

Issues with undersized HVAC systems:

  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that don't have enough power often run constantly to attempt to regulate the temperature of a home, leading to excessive wear and tear. This can lead to 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 far too cool.
  • Increased 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 operates more efficiently and helps to reduce your monthly bills.

Problems with HVAC systems that are too big

  • Unnecessary expenses: Larger HVAC systems tend to cost more money, so investing in more heating and cooling capacity than your home needs is a waste of money.
  • 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.
  • Humidity issues: An HVAC system should regulate indoor humidity, 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, and encourage the growth of mildew or mold.

Get the Right HVAC System Size by Working With the Pros at Strine's  

Now that you have learned some of the things that influence what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to choose a new heating and cooling system. Strine's is here 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 enjoy a cozy environment every day of the year.

Call 717-383-4479 today to set up your free estimate for HVAC installation in York, PA.