Choosing the correct HVAC system size for your home is vital. It affects your comfort and your utility costs. In this HVAC sizing guide, the experts at ACE Solutions will explain how to determine the best size of heating and cooling system for your home, what features they take into account and why picking the ideal size HVAC is so important to your comfort.

How Does HVAC System Size Affect Your 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 have to work extremely hard to keep up in extremely hot or cold weather. However, an HVAC system that's too large is inefficient, wastes money and can cause problems that make your home less agreeable.

Key Factors Professionals Consider for HVAC Sizing in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ

To determine the right HVAC system size for a home, the HVAC installation specialists at ACE Solutions 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 factors, such as:

  • Home size: The size of the home is arguably the most important factor in selecting the size of your HVAC system. How much space will your new HVAC system need to heat and cool?
  • Home insulation: A properly insulated home retains the indoor temperature better, which can influence how much heating and cooling capacity you need.
  • Local Weather: The local climate in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, has an important role in determining the appropriate size HVAC. Homes in hotter climates might need a system with a greater cooling capacity, while cooler regions may need less.
  • Window size: Windows can be a considerable source of energy loss. The number, dimensions, type of glass used, and whether they’re single or double pane can considerably influence heating and cooling requirements.
  • Amount of sun: A home that gets a considerable sunlight will automatically be warmer than one that doesn't, which impacts central air sizing. Home placement in relation to prevailing winds and number of nearby shade trees also impact the correct HVAC size.

Common HVAC Size Mistakes to Avoid

A frequent mistake homeowners make when determining the size of their HVAC system is to rely solely on square footage. While 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 required to keep your home pleasant.

Another typical mistake is not engaging a professional. It's crucial to have an experienced HVAC technician conduct a Manual J calculation, which takes all the essential elements into consideration to find the correct 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 detailed view of the pitfalls of a wrong-sized HVAC:

Issues with undersized HVAC systems:

  • Reduced lifespan and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are too small often operate continuously to try to heat or cool a home, leading to excessive 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 residence, which can cause hot, stuffy rooms or areas of your home that are uncomfortably cold.
  • Higher energy bills: An underpowered HVAC system that runs continuously trying to keep up uses more energy, driving 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.

Problems with HVAC systems that are too big

  • Unnecessary expenses: Larger HVAC systems tend to cost more money, so buying more heating and cooling capacity than your home requires is an avoidable expense.
  • Less service life and breakdowns: HVAC systems that are oversized 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.
  • 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, and encourage the growth of mildew or mold.

Get the Right HVAC System Size by Working With the Pros at ACE Solutions  

Now that you know some of the factors that affect what HVAC system size is right for you, it's time to select a new heating and cooling system. ACE Solutions is here to help.

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

Call 201-426-0650 today to schedule your free estimate for HVAC installation in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ.